“Enter Sandman” was released as the first single from Metallica’s 1991 album on July 29, 1991.
The single arrived exactly two weeks before Metallica, whose official release date was August 12, 1991. That advance release gave radio and television audiences an early introduction to the album’s more streamlined sound and helped build anticipation for the full record.
“Enter Sandman” became one of the band’s defining songs. Its central riff, memorable chorus, and lyrics about childhood fears made it unusually recognizable while retaining Metallica’s heavy-guitar identity. The song eventually reached number 16 on the Billboard Hot 100 and performed strongly on rock charts.
The date is easy to confuse with the album’s release date because both events occurred in the same short period. July 29 refers to the single; August 12 refers to the complete album.