Em Beihold is a Los Angeles-based singer-songwriter who has been writing emotionally driven songs since she was 13. She independently released her debut EP, Infrared, in 2017, earning early attention for her emotional vulnerability.

In 2022, her song “Numb Little Bug” went viral on TikTok, pushing her into the spotlight. Now, she is entering a new era with the release of her debut album, Tales of a Failed Shapeshifter

After the success of “Numb Little Bug”, Beihold experienced writer’s block. The pressure to follow up on a viral hit left her questioning herself.

“Brutus was the first song I wrote for the album, coming out of the writer’s block,” said Beihold. “It’s one that kind of proved to me I was still able to write.”

Brutus is one of three singles Beihold pre-released for Tales of a Failed Shapeshifter.

This song references a betrayal, the title serving as a play on words for the events involving Julius Caesar. But this theatrical song has a twist – instead of being betrayed by another, Beihold expresses that the betrayal is internal.

“Brutus” marked a turning point in her career. Rather than chasing another viral moment, Beihold shifted her focus inward, concentrating less on expectations of others and more on herself.

Another single includes “Hot Goblin.” The track uses exaggerated and comedic lyrics to express feelings of insecurity and unattractiveness. Many fans loved this song, saying that it was “super relatable.”

Lastly, the final single she pre-released was “Scared of the Dark.” This song shifts to a softer melody, with lyrics about Beihold’s fears. It showcases her vulnerability.

“If you like Regina Spektor, Fiona Apple you’ll definitely like the album” said Beihold.

Beihold describes this album as “journal-entry like,” reflecting her journey with depression and helping her better understand her own feelings.

In this album, Beihold also unpacks self-doubt, identity, and the exhaustion of trying to be everything for everyone.

“When you let too many other voices tell you who you are, you won’t know who you are,” said Beihold.

For Beihold, learning to tune out those voices allowed her to express herself during the making of this album. Instead of chasing the validation of others, she began writing for herself again.

“Numb Little Bug was on the radio next to artists like Doja Cat and Dua Lipa. My favorite artist is Regina Spektor… I didn’t want to cosplay as this pop girl, like I know I’m not,” said Beihold.

When asked what listeners can expect from this album, Beihold said that she hopes it will “open up a whimsical, more musical side for everyone.”

Tales of a Failed Shapeshifter is less about failure and more about self-acceptance. For Beihold, this album doesn’t just mark a new era, but signals a clearer understanding of her own identity.

Beihold brings this new era on the road this upcoming May. She will hit 22 cities, including her hometown of Los Angeles.

“I’m really just making music that feels me that I love,” said Beihold. “I can’t wait to play it on tour.”

Tales of a Failed Shapeshifter is out now on Spotify and Apple Music.