The original 1991 edition of Metallica's The Black Album has a total running time of 62 minutes and 40 seconds.
That duration covers the album's 12-song program, beginning with “Enter Sandman” and ending with “The Struggle Within.” The record balances concise heavy-metal songs with longer pieces such as “My Friend of Misery” and “Nothing Else Matters.”
The 62:40 figure refers to the standard original album sequence, not later deluxe editions, remastered releases, or bonus material. Anniversary editions expanded the project with demos, live performances, alternate mixes, and other recordings, so their total play time is much longer.
Running time is also distinct from the album's recording period. Metallica was recorded over sessions spanning October 1990 to June 1991, while the completed program fits within just over an hour. The album's compact but substantial length helped it work both as a full listening experience and as a major commercial release.