March 3, 1986 — Metallica released their third studio album, Master of Puppets, a record that would go on to become one of the most influential heavy metal albums ever made.

Coming off the raw aggression of Kill ’Em All and the darker, more technical direction of Ride the Lightning, the band pushed their sound even further with Master of Puppets. The album combined blistering speed, complex arrangements, and politically charged themes — elements that helped define the sound of thrash metal during the 1980s.

Tracks like “Battery,” “Welcome Home (Sanitarium),” and the title track showcased the band’s evolving songwriting and musicianship. The album also featured the instrumental “Orion,” widely regarded as one of bassist Cliff Burton’s most iconic contributions to the band.

Though it was released before Metallica reached their mainstream peak, Master of Puppets became a landmark record in metal history. Over the years, the album has sold millions of copies worldwide and continues to influence generations of rock and metal musicians.

Today, nearly four decades later, Master of Puppets is still widely considered one of the greatest metal albums ever recorded, a defining moment not only for Metallica, but for heavy music as a whole.

Favorite track from the album?