What was Metallica's first single from The Black Album?

“Enter Sandman” was Metallica's first single from The Black Album. Elektra released it on July 29, 1991, two weeks before the full album arrived.

The song was also the album's opening track and the first song Metallica wrote for the project. Its central riff came from Kirk Hammett, while James Hetfield wrote the lyrics after the band had developed the instrumental framework. The lyrics focus on childhood fears and nightmares.

The choice of lead single was debated during the sessions. “Holier Than Thou” had initially been considered for the opening position, but drummer Lars Ulrich strongly argued that “Enter Sandman” should lead the campaign. The single reached number 16 on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100 and became one of the band's signature songs.