“Enter Sandman” was the first single from Metallica's 1991 self-titled album, commonly called The Black Album.
Elektra Records released the single on July 29, 1991, two weeks before the album. The song's opening riff, radio-friendly structure, and unsettling childhood-nightmare imagery made it an immediate gateway into Metallica's new era.
“Holier Than Thou” had initially been considered for the opening track and first single. Producer Bob Rock favored it, while Lars Ulrich strongly supported “Enter Sandman.” The band ultimately made “Enter Sandman” both the album opener and lead single.
The single reached number 16 on the Billboard Hot 100 and was certified platinum in the United States. Its Wayne Isham-directed promotional video later won the MTV Video Music Award for Best Rock Video in 1992.