“Holier Than Thou” was initially considered as the opening track and first single for Metallica’s 1991 album.
The plan changed during the album’s preparation after producer Bob Rock argued that the record contained several songs with broad appeal and that another track should lead the campaign. Lars Ulrich strongly supported “Enter Sandman,” helping make it the opening song and lead single instead.
“Holier Than Thou” ultimately appeared as the fourth track on the standard album. It is one of the record’s faster and more aggressive songs, with lyrics criticizing hypocrisy and moral superiority. Its placement demonstrates how the final sequence balanced radio accessibility with material that connected the album to Metallica’s thrash-metal history.
The change is easy to miss because “Enter Sandman” became so closely associated with the album’s launch. The decision helped establish the record’s public identity: rather than opening with the most overtly thrash-oriented choice, Metallica began with a dark, instantly recognizable riff and a more accessible arrangement.