What was the lead single from Metallica's 1991 album Metallica?

“Enter Sandman” was the lead single from Metallica's 1991 album Metallica.

Elektra Records released the single on July 29, 1991, shortly before the full album arrived. The song became the record's defining introduction for many listeners, combining a memorable guitar riff with lyrics that draw on childhood fears and nightmares.

The song had an unusual writing history. It was the first song written for the album but the last to receive its lyrics. James Hetfield, Lars Ulrich, and Kirk Hammett are credited as its writers, while producer Bob Rock helped shape the final arrangement and sound.

“Enter Sandman” reached number 16 on the Billboard Hot 100 and became one of Metallica's signature songs. Its music video, directed by Wayne Isham, received heavy rotation and won the 1992 MTV Video Music Award for Best Rock Video. The song's success helped establish the album's broad crossover appeal without removing its heavy-metal identity.