Dave Mustaine has reignited a long-standing debate in the world of metal by claiming that Metallica’s signature riff from “Enter Sandman” wasn’t as original as it seems. Speaking during a recent appearance on The Shawn Ryan Show, the former Metallica guitarist and current Megadeth frontman suggested that Metallica’s iconic track borrows heavily from a song by crossover thrash band Excel.
“There’s this song by Excel, I think it’s called ‘Into the Unknown’—pretty similar,” Mustaine remarked, though the track he referenced is widely believed to be Excel’s 1989 release, “Tapping Into the Emotional Void.” The riff in question, according to Mustaine, closely mirrors the famous guitar line that kicks off “Enter Sandman,” released two years later in 1991 on Metallica’s self-titled, also known as The Black Album.”
This isn’t the first time the similarities between the two songs have been highlighted. Over the years, fans and critics alike have drawn comparisons between Excel’s track and “Enter Sandman,” especially pointing out the striking resemblance between the guitar riff and drum pattern that open both songs. Rumors even surfaced back in 2003 suggesting that Excel considered legal action against Metallica, though no lawsuit was ever filed.
Mustaine’s comments surfaced as he revisited his own history with Metallica, particularly his controversial exit from the band. “I made sure not to ever say that I quit, because I wanted people to know that I was unfairly dismissed and that I didn’t give a s**t,” he shared during the interview, reflecting on the circumstances surrounding his departure.
“Enter Sandman” remains one of Metallica’s most commercially successful and recognizable songs, propelling the band into mainstream success and helping define the sound of ‘90s heavy metal. Meanwhile, Excel’s “Tapping Into the Emotional Void” may not have achieved the same widespread recognition, but it remains a cult favorite in the crossover thrash scene.
For curious listeners, a side-by-side comparison of “Enter Sandman” and “Tapping Into the Emotional Void” might just offer some intriguing insights into Mustaine’s claim.
