When did recording sessions for Metallica's 1991 self-titled album begin?

Recording sessions for Metallica's 1991 self-titled album began on October 6, 1990.

The sessions continued until June 16, 1991, creating an eight-month production period before the album’s August release. Most of the work took place at One on One Recording Studios in Los Angeles under producer Bob Rock.

The band had already made several demos before the main sessions began. On August 13, 1990, demos included “Enter Sandman,” “The Unforgiven,” “Nothing Else Matters,” and “Wherever I May Roam.” Those demos belong to the album’s development, but not to the start of the principal recording sessions.

The lengthy process reflected Metallica’s push for a different sound. The finished album moved toward slower, heavier, more refined arrangements while preserving the band’s forceful identity.