What if ’60s psych rockers The Doors had written Metallica’s heavy metal anthem “Enter Sandman”? YouTuber Denis Pauna explored this intriguing concept in a video that has thrilled rock fans. He blends the familiar lyrics and riffs of Metallica’s hit with the retro groove and organ riffs typical of The Doors’ keyboardist Ray Manzarek.
While Metallica’s frontman James Hetfield is known for his gritty vocals, it’s fascinating to hear Jim Morrison’s deep baritone taking over. Pauna masterfully captures Morrison’s style and nails the multi-instrumental arrangement. The guitar solo, in particular, adds an eerie intensity to the song.
Pauna’s “Enter Sandman” cover in the style of The Doors has become a hit on his channel, racking up 361,000 views and becoming his fifth most popular video. He explained the inspiration behind the cover, saying, “Here’s the old classic ‘Enter Sandman’ but in an even older style.” He drew from The Doors’ tracks like “Soul Kitchen” and “When The Music’s Over,” adapting them to fit “Enter Sandman” with some creative tweaks.
Rock fans have praised Pauna’s crossover cover, with comments like, “Dude, I am a mega Doors fan, and I am impressed! I rarely see this type of justice done to a band,” and “This is unbelievably good. The slow pace, Jim Morrison take dead on, fuzz guitar, organ playing the main ‘Enter Sandman’ riff. Sounds like a classic Doors song and a good one.” Pauna’s innovative blend of Metallica and The Doors has clearly struck a chord with audiences.