Which song was written first for Metallica’s album commonly called The Black Album?

“Enter Sandman” was the first song written for Metallica’s album commonly called The Black Album.

The song was also the last track on the album to receive its lyrics. Four demos were recorded on August 13, 1990: “Enter Sandman,” “The Unforgiven,” “Nothing Else Matters,” and “Wherever I May Roam.” A demo of “Sad but True” followed on October 4, 1990.

“Enter Sandman” grew into the album’s lead single and opening track. Its subject matter centers on nightmares and the frightening world associated with sleep, while the final version reflects the band’s move toward shorter, more direct songs.

The song is sometimes remembered mainly as a finished hit, but its early place in the writing process is significant. It helped establish the musical direction of the record before the rest of the material was fully developed.