“Enter Sandman” is the opening track on Metallica’s self-titled 1991 album, commonly called The Black Album.
The song begins with a clean, repeating guitar figure before expanding into one of Metallica’s most recognizable heavy riffs. Its lyrics use childhood fears, nightmares, and bedtime imagery to create an unsettling atmosphere.
“Enter Sandman” was also the album’s lead single, released on July 29, 1991. It became a major breakthrough for the band, reaching number 16 on the US Billboard Hot 100 and helping introduce Metallica to a much wider audience.
The track’s position was not always certain during development. “Holier Than Thou” had initially been considered for the opening slot and as the first single. The finished sequence instead placed “Enter Sandman” first, making its instantly recognizable riff the album’s introduction.