Varg Vikernes is a Norwegian musician and writer, best known as the sole member of the black metal project Burzum. He gained notoriety in the early 1990s for his music, which is characterized by its atmospheric sound and dark themes. Vikernes was also involved in the early Norwegian black metal scene, which included bands like Mayhem and Emperor. In 1994, Vikernes was convicted of murder and arson related to the death of Øystein Aarseth, a member of Mayhem, and the burning of several churches. After serving time in prison, he continued to create music and write about his views on paganism and European culture, often stirring controversy with his opinions.