Metallica, formed in 1981 in Los Angeles, is one of the most influential heavy metal bands in history.
The original lineup consisted of James Hetfield (vocals/rhythm guitar), Lars Ulrich (drums), Dave Mustaine (lead guitar), and Ron McGovney (bass).
After releasing “Kill ‘Em All” in 1983, they defined thrash metal with landmark albums “Ride The Lightning” (1984) and “Master of Puppets” (1986).
About The Song
“Enter Sandman” was released in 1991 as the lead single from Metallica’s self-titled “Black Album.”
The song became their signature hit, reaching #16 on the Billboard Hot 100 and driving the album to sell over 16 million copies in the US.
Known for its iconic guitar riff and dark lyrics about children’s nightmares, it marked Metallica’s shift toward a more mainstream sound while maintaining its heavy metal edge.
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Release Date | July 29, 1991 |
| Album | Metallica (commonly known as The Black Album) |
| Genre | Heavy Metal, Hard Rock |
| Writers | James Hetfield, Lars Ulrich, Kirk Hammett |
| Producers | Bob Rock, James Hetfield, Lars Ulrich |
| Streams | Over 1 billion streams on Spotify (as of January 2025) |
| Awards |
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Enter Sandman Lyrics by Metallica
Instrumental Intro
Verse 1
Say your prayers, little one, don’t forget, my son
To include everyone
I tuck you in, warm within, keep you free from sin
‘Til the Sandman, he comes
Pre-Chorus
Sleep with one eye open
Gripping your pillow tight
Chorus
Exit light
Enter night
Take my hand
We’re off to never-never land
Verse 2
Something’s wrong, shut the light, heavy thoughts tonight
And they aren’t of Snow White
Dreams of war, dreams of liars, dreams of dragons’ fire
And of things that will bite, yeah
Pre-Chorus
Sleep with one eye open
Gripping your pillow tight
Chorus
Exit light
Enter night
Take my hand
We’re off to never-never land
Yeah
Guitar Solo
Bridge
Now, I lay me down to sleep
(Now, I lay me down to sleep)
Pray the Lord my soul to keep
(Pray the Lord my soul to keep)
If I die before I wake
(If I die before I wake)
Pray the Lord my soul to take
(Pray the Lord my soul to take)
Hush little baby, don’t say a word
And never mind that noise you heard
It’s just the beasts under your bed
In your closet, in your head
Chorus
Exit light
Enter night
Grain of sand
Exit light
Enter night
Take my hand
We’re off to never-never land
(Yeah, haha haha)
Outro
Oh, yeah-yeah, yo-oh
We’re off to never-never land
Take my hand
We’re off to never-never land
Take my hand
We’re off to never-never land
We’re off to never-never land
We’re off to never-never land
We’re off to never-never land
Enter Sandman by Metallica Live Performances
Metallica – Enter Sandman (Live in Mexico City)
Metallica’s Enter Sandman live performance in Mexico City, part of Orgullo, Pasión, y Gloria, delivered electrifying energy, powerful guitar riffs, a thunderous crowd, and iconic stage visuals.
Metallica: Enter Sandman (Los Angeles, CA – August 27, 2023)
Metallica’s Enter Sandman performance at SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles on August 27, 2023, featured iconic pyrotechnics, vivid lighting effects, and a roaring crowd as part of their M72 World Tour.
Metallica: Enter Sandman (Vienna, Austria – June 1, 2024)
Metallica’s Enter Sandman live in Vienna, Austria, on June 1, 2024, featured a stunning open-air setup at Racino Ebreichsdorf, blending Vienna’s scenic backdrop with their powerful sound. The performance included an extended guitar solo and an exclusive fan interaction.
Metallica: Enter Sandman (Trondheim, Norway – July 13, 2019)
Metallica’s Enter Sandman performance in Trondheim, Norway, on July 13, 2019, at Granåsen Arena, featured a dramatic Nordic twilight backdrop, roaring crowd energy, and flawless execution, making it unforgettable.
Similar Songs by The Artist
- “Nothing Else Matters”: An emotional power ballad with clean guitars and orchestra, exploring themes of trust and personal relationships.
- “The Unforgiven”: A dramatic heavy ballad with Western-themed melodies, telling a story about life’s struggles and societal control.
- “Wherever I May Roam”: An anthemic track about life on the road, featuring Eastern-influenced riffs and themes of freedom.
- “Fuel”: A fast-paced, adrenaline-pumping song about speed and power, with aggressive riffs and racing themes.
- “The Memory Remains”: A dark, haunting track about fading fame, featuring guest vocals from Marianne Faithfull.
- “The Day That Never Comes”: A progressive metal track starting soft and then building to intense guitar solos, dealing with forgiveness.
Frequently Asked Questions
What did Metallica Say About “Enter Sandman”?
Metallica revealed “Enter Sandman” was built around Hammett’s 3 AM riff. Originally about crib death, they changed it to nightmares for broader appeal.
Where Did the Idea for ‘Enter Sandman’ Come From?
The idea came from Kirk Hammett’s late-night guitar riff, with lyrics inspired by childhood nightmares. Originally about crib death until management suggested lighter themes.
What Does Sandman Mean?
The Sandman is a folklore character who sprinkles sand on children’s eyes to bring good dreams, though Metallica’s version represents a darker, nightmare-bringing figure.
Is There a Demo Version of This Song?
Yes, there is a Demo Version of this song:
