Varg Vikernes: The Controversial Figure Behind Burzum

**Varg Vikernes is a name that resonates in the realms of black metal music and criminal infamy.** As the sole member of the one-man band Burzum, Vikernes has become a polarizing figure, known not only for his music but also for his controversial beliefs and actions. His life story is a tapestry woven with threads of creativity, darkness, and a quest for ideology that many find unsettling. In this article, we will delve deep into Varg Vikernes' life, exploring his early years, musical career, legal troubles, and the ideologies that have shaped his public persona.

In the world of heavy metal, few names carry the weight of notoriety like Varg Vikernes. His journey from a promising musician to a convicted murderer and self-proclaimed pagan leader is as dramatic as it is disturbing. Vikernes' influence on the black metal scene is undeniable, but his actions have led to questions about the impact of art on morality and society. This article aims to unravel the complexities of Vikernes' life and the legacy he has left behind.

Join us as we navigate through the various chapters of Varg Vikernes' life, examining the controversial aspects that have defined him. From his musical achievements to his legal battles and ideological beliefs, we will provide a comprehensive view of a man who has become synonymous with both creativity and chaos.

Table of Contents

• Biography of Varg Vikernes
• Early Years and Background
• Musical Career: The Birth of Burzum
• Legal Troubles and Controversies
• Ideological Beliefs and Controversial Views
• Legacy and Influence on Black Metal
• Recent Activities and Current Life
• Conclusion

Biography of Varg Vikernes

Varg Vikernes was born on February 11, 1973, in Bergen, Norway. He is best known as the founder of Burzum, a project that has made significant contributions to the black metal genre. Vikernes' life has been marked by extreme ideologies, a tumultuous criminal history, and a controversial public persona.

Early Years and Background

Vikernes grew up in a musical environment, with influences ranging from classical music to punk rock. His early fascination with music eventually led him to experiment with creating his own compositions. However, his upbringing was also marked by a sense of alienation and a search for identity, which influenced his later ideological pursuits.

Musical Career: The Birth of Burzum

In 1991, Vikernes began recording music under the name Burzum. His self-titled debut album, released in 1992, was a groundbreaking work that helped define the black metal genre. Burzum's music is characterized by its atmospheric soundscapes, haunting melodies, and raw production quality. The album received critical acclaim and established Vikernes as a key figure in the black metal community.

The Evolution of Burzum's Sound

• Early Works: Focus on raw, lo-fi production
• Later Works: Incorporation of ambient and neo-classical elements
• Influence on Other Artists: Paving the way for future black metal acts

Legal Troubles and Controversies

Vikernes' life took a dark turn in the early 1990s when he became embroiled in a series of legal troubles. In 1994, he was convicted of the murder of Øystein Aarseth, a fellow musician and member of the black metal band Mayhem. Vikernes was sentenced to 21 years in prison, a sentence that would become a defining moment in his life.

The Murder of Øystein Aarseth

The circumstances surrounding Aarseth's murder are both tragic and controversial. Varg claimed that the act was motivated by personal disputes and philosophical differences. The murder shocked the music community and raised questions about the violent tendencies associated with the black metal scene.

Ideological Beliefs and Controversial Views

Throughout his life, Varg Vikernes has espoused various controversial beliefs, including notions of paganism, nationalism, and a return to traditional values. He has been associated with far-right ideologies, which have drawn criticism from many quarters. Vikernes has often used his platform to promote these views, further polarizing public opinion about him.

Influence of Paganism

• Advocacy for Norse pagan beliefs
• Critique of modern religions and values
• Promotion of a return to ancestral traditions

Legacy and Influence on Black Metal

Despite the controversies surrounding his life, Varg Vikernes' influence on the black metal genre is significant. His music and ideologies have inspired a generation of musicians and fans, leading to the emergence of various sub-genres and movements within the metal community. Vikernes' legacy is a complex interplay of artistic innovation and moral ambiguity.

Recent Activities and Current Life

After serving his prison sentence, Varg Vikernes was released in 2009 and has since continued to produce music and share his ideologies online. He has also engaged in various creative projects, including writing and filmmaking. His current life reflects a blend of artistic pursuits and a continued commitment to his controversial beliefs.

Conclusion

Varg Vikernes is a figure who embodies the duality of creativity and chaos. His contributions to the black metal genre are undeniable, yet his actions and beliefs have sparked significant debate and controversy. As we reflect on Vikernes' life, we are reminded of the complexities of human nature and the fine line between art and ideology. We invite you to share your thoughts on Varg Vikernes and his impact on music and culture in the comments section below.

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