Metallica’s “One” won the first Grammy Award for Best Metal Performance.
The song received the inaugural award in the category at the 31st Annual Grammy Awards in 1989. “One” appeared on Metallica’s 1988 album ...And Justice for All and became one of the band’s defining songs, combining extended instrumental passages with lyrics about a severely wounded soldier.
The victory was a landmark for heavy metal at the Grammys. Metal had previously been recognized through broader rock categories, but the dedicated award acknowledged the genre’s distinct sound and growing commercial importance. Metallica’s performance also helped introduce the band to viewers beyond its established fan base.
The result is often confused with Metallica’s later Grammy wins for Best Metal Performance, including “Enter Sandman.” “One” was the first winner of the category, while “Enter Sandman” won in 1992. The award’s category name and eligibility rules have changed over time, but the 1989 inaugural result remains fixed.