Metallica finally played “Enter Sandman” live at Virginia Tech — and fans went wild. As part of their M72 World Tour, the legendary band delivered the ultimate surprise by performing their iconic track for Hokies fans, who have made it a staple for decades.
For 25 years, “Enter Sandman” has been the entrance anthem for Virginia Tech football at Lane Stadium. The song won a fan vote before the 2020 season, beating out tracks like “Sirius” and “Welcome to the Jungle.”
Though Metallica has long known about the tradition, the band hadn’t made it to Blacksburg, Va. — until Wednesday night on May 7. The result? A wave of emotion and celebration on social media, ranging from pure joy to disbelief.
Metallica Performs ‘Enter Sandman’ at Virginia Tech
It’s been a gameday tradition for years — “Enter Sandman” blaring as the Hokies take the field, Lane Stadium shaking with energy. So when Metallica themselves played the song at the stadium, it gave fans a memory they’ll never forget.
As soon as the first notes dropped, the crowd roared like it was a Saturday in the fall. The energy was electric before a single lyric was even sung.
Fans did not hesitate to share their excitement: “Best entrance in college football and it’s not particularly close.”
Best entrance in college football and it's not particularly close.
— BryanPikus (@BryanPikus) May 8, 2025
Before the concert, Metallica met with Hokies head coach Brent Pry, who watched the show from his suite.
Reaction online was full of excitement and nostalgia.
“Can’t wait till you are in Big 12 Hokies!!!!” said one fan.
“This is why no sport will ever top college football and the goosebump aesthetics it produces,” said another user.
— College Sports Only 🏈 🏀 ⚾️ (@CollegeSportsO) May 8, 2025
Some fans even floated the idea of licensing “Enter Sandman” for the next NCAA football video game.
“Maybe while they’re there, you can ask them if they’ll license that song for NCAA football,” said one user on X.
The song is widely considered one of the most iconic entrances in college football. Metallica has shown support for the tradition over the years. In 2021, the band recorded a video that played before a game against Miami, syncing with the Hokies’ entrance.
Metallica’s tour will wrap up with a two-night finale in Denver. The first night will feature Limp Bizkit and Ice Nine Kills, while Pantera joins the lineup on night two.
The next time “Enter Sandman” will echo through Lane Stadium is Sept. 6, when Virginia Tech hosts Vanderbilt in its home opener.
