What was the first single released from Metallica's 1991 self-titled album?

“Enter Sandman” was the first single released from Metallica's 1991 self-titled album.

The single came out on July 29, 1991, shortly before the album’s August 12 release. Its instantly recognizable guitar riff and lyrics about childhood nightmares made it the record’s defining introduction for many listeners.

The song was also unusual in the album’s writing history: it was the first song written for the project but the last to receive its lyrics. That detail is one reason “Enter Sandman” is central to stories about how the album developed.

The other singles followed later. “The Unforgiven” was released in 1991, while “Nothing Else Matters” and “Wherever I May Roam” followed in 1992. Their different release dates should not be confused with the album’s original launch.