Which song from Metallica's 1991 album was the first album track heard publicly?

“The God That Failed” was the first song from Metallica's 1991 album to be heard publicly.

Although “Enter Sandman” became the lead single and the album's most recognizable introduction, “The God That Failed” reached the public first. Its early exposure gave listeners an initial glimpse of the record's slower, heavier direction.

The song's subject was deeply personal for James Hetfield. Its lyrics were connected to his mother's death from cancer and her Christian Science beliefs, which led her to refuse medical treatment and rely on faith for healing.

“The God That Failed” was not released as a commercial single. It is also notable for being among Metallica's first original releases tuned a half step down, a choice that contributed to its especially heavy sound.