Which producer-directed Metallica song became The Black Album's first single?

"Enter Sandman" became the first single from Metallica's The Black Album.

The single was released on July 29, 1991, two weeks before the album itself. It introduced the record's streamlined sound to a wide audience and became one of Metallica's best-known songs.

The choice was not automatic. "Holier Than Thou" had initially been considered for the opening track and first single. Producer Bob Rock argued that the album contained several potential classics, while drummer Lars Ulrich strongly supported "Enter Sandman" as the lead track. The song ultimately opened the album and led its campaign.

The single reached No. 16 on the Billboard Hot 100 and No. 10 on the Billboard Mainstream Rock chart. Its Wayne Isham-directed music video later won Best Rock Video at the 1992 MTV Video Music Awards, adding a major visual component to the song's breakthrough.