Which song’s introduction on Metallica’s The Black Album uses the melody of “America”?

The introduction to “Don’t Tread on Me” uses the melody of “America” from West Side Story.

“America” was composed by Leonard Bernstein for the 1957 musical West Side Story. Metallica incorporated that recognizable melody into the opening of “Don’t Tread on Me,” creating an unusual link between a classic musical-theater work and a heavy-metal album.

The song’s title and lyrics also connect to American imagery. “Don’t Tread on Me” is the motto associated with the Gadsden flag, whose coiled snake appears on The Black Album’s cover. The musical reference and the flag reference are related themes, but they are separate elements of the song and packaging.

The track is number six on the standard album. Its introduction is often overlooked because the song quickly moves into Metallica’s heavier arrangement.