“Enter Sandman” was the first song written during the development of Metallica’s 1991 Black Album.
The song began with a guitar riff by Kirk Hammett, which he brought to the band during the writing process. James Hetfield and Lars Ulrich then helped shape the arrangement, turning the initial idea into the album’s opening track.
Although it was the first song written, “Enter Sandman” was the last of the album’s songs to receive its lyrics. Hetfield developed the words around childhood fears, nightmares, and the familiar figure of the Sandman, creating a contrast between an almost lullaby-like idea and ominous imagery.
The song’s role grew as the project developed. It became the lead single, the first track on the album, and the band’s breakthrough introduction to many new listeners. Its writing history is therefore distinct from its release order: it was created first but lyrically completed last.