"Wherever I May Roam" is a song by American heavy metal band Metallica, released in October 1992 as the fourth single from their fifth album, Metallica (also known as The Black Album)

. The song features a distinctive intro with Asian instruments like a gong and sitar, combined with a twelve-string bass overdub, which is unusual for the band

. Lyrically, the song expresses themes of freedom and nomadic lifestyle, with the narrator embracing a life on the road, rejecting labels such as "rover," "wanderer," and "nomad," and emphasizing pride and independence despite the hardships of such a life

. The chorus highlights the idea that "where I lay my head is home," underscoring the transient yet self-defined nature of home for the narrator

. "Wherever I May Roam" has been a staple in Metallica's live performances since its debut in 1991, including notable renditions with the San Francisco Symphony Orchestra during the S &M concerts

. The official music video, directed by Wayne Isham, features behind-the- scenes and concert footage from their 1992 tour

. The song charted internationally, reaching top positions in countries like Denmark, Finland, and Norway, and also appeared on the US Billboard Hot 100 and Album Rock Tracks charts

. The song was written by James Hetfield and Lars Ulrich and produced by Bob Rock along with Hetfield and Ulrich

. In summary, "Wherever I May Roam" is a celebrated Metallica track known for its unique instrumentation, themes of freedom and wandering, and enduring popularity in live shows since its release in the early 1990s