Metallica’s ‘Master of Puppets’ helped bring the thrash metal band to wider attention, combining relentless riffs, melody and an expansive structure. Although it peaked at 35 in the US and 22 in the UK, its anthemic chorus and dramatic guitar work have made it a defining metal song and a staple of classic rock.

The “Master of Puppets” is not a person but psychoactive substances and chemical dependency. James Hetfield explained that the song describes drugs taking control of an addict’s life, reversing the relationship between user and substance; its lyrics reflect Metallica’s experiences with alcohol and drug use, while also serving as a broader comment on manipulation without presenting itself as straightforward anti-drugs propaganda.