“Enter Sandman” was the lead single from Metallica's 1991 self-titled album, known as The Black Album.
The single was released on July 29, 1991, shortly before the album itself. It introduced the record's more direct, tightly structured sound and became one of Metallica's signature songs. The track's lyrics draw on childhood fears and nightmares, while its central guitar riff became instantly recognizable.
“Enter Sandman” was the first song written for the album but the last of its lyrics to be completed. The song was credited to James Hetfield, Lars Ulrich, and Kirk Hammett. It reached number 16 on the United States Billboard Hot 100 and was certified platinum by the RIAA.
The other major singles followed later, including “The Unforgiven,” “Nothing Else Matters,” “Wherever I May Roam,” and “Sad but True.” Their presence sometimes causes listeners to mistake one of those songs for the album's lead single.