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Burzum is a solo black metal project founded in 1991 by Varg Vikernes, also known as Count Grishnackh, in Norway. Burzum is one of the most controversial and influential names in black metal, being both admired and criticized, not only for his music, but also for Vikernes' actions and ideologies.

Varg Vikernes started Burzum as a solo project, composing and recording all the songs himself. Burzum's sound, especially on the early albums, is characterized by lo-fi production, harsh vocals, repetitive guitar riffs, and a dark, melancholic atmosphere. The first self-titled album, Burzum (1992), was released on the label Deathlike Silence Productions, owned by Euronymous, the guitarist of the band Mayhem.

Det Som Engang Var (1993) and Hvis Lyset Tar Oss (1994) are two of Burzum's most acclaimed albums, being considered milestones of black metal. Filosofem (1996), another influential album, was recorded before Vikernes was arrested, but was only released later. This album is often cited as one of the most atmospheric and innovative works of black metal, incorporating elements of ambient music and hypnotic repetition.

Burzum's notoriety is inseparable from Vikernes' actions outside of music. In 1993, he was convicted of the murder of Euronymous and of burning down several historic churches in Norway. Vikernes was sentenced to 21 years in prison, during which time he continued to record and release music.

After being released from prison in 2009, Vikernes continued to release albums under the Burzum name, but the sound changed significantly, incorporating more elements of ambient and folk music. Albums such as Belus (2010) and Fallen (2011) reflect this new musical direction.

However, the controversy surrounding Burzum has not subsided. Vikernes is known for his extreme political views and involvement with neo-Nazi and pagan nationalist ideologies, which has led to a significant divide between those who appreciate Burzum's music and those who reject the project because of Vikernes' ideologies.

Burzum remains one of the most divisive figures in black metal history. Vikernes' music has influenced a generation of musicians, especially within black metal and ambient music, but his history and political ideologies complicate the band's legacy. For many, Burzum represents both innovative artistic creation and the dangers of extremist ideologies.