What was the first song Metallica wrote for its 1991 album Metallica?
Answer
Enter Sandman
“Enter Sandman” was the first song Metallica wrote for its 1991 album Metallica.
The song grew from a guitar riff by Kirk Hammett, who had been influenced by Soundgarden's 1989 album Louder Than Love. Lars Ulrich suggested restructuring the riff so its opening idea repeated in an unusual pattern.
The instrumental framework came together quickly, but James Hetfield took longer to write the lyrics. Producer Bob Rock and Ulrich encouraged him to replace his initial idea with a darker story about childhood nightmares and a threatening family secret.
“Enter Sandman” eventually became the album's opening track and lead single. Its familiar lullaby imagery and heavy central riff made it the record's most recognizable introduction.