After some time away from touring for healing and introspection, Em Beihold has come into 2026 with the release of her debut album, ‘Tales of a Failed Shapeshifter’. The album delves deep into themes of identity, transformation, and the often-uncomfortable journey of self-discovery, offering a raw and honest glimpse into her evolving artistic landscape and personal philosophy.
“This project truly became a mirror, reflecting all the selves I’ve tried to be and the profound freedom I found in accepting who I am, even the ‘failed’ parts of that journey.”
The deeply personal project explores her lifelong habit of shapeshifting to fit roles in relationships, friendships, and especially as an artist — and the powerful realization of who she is when that stops working.After the explosive success of her 2022 platinum hit “Numb Little Bug,” Beihold spiraled into severe writer’s block and identity crisis. “I had the worst kind of writer’s block and identity crisis,” she says. “I didn’t even know what I was trying to make or say or what I liked.” She turned to outpatient therapy, reconnected with her earliest inspirations, and found the right collaborators (James Flannigan and Jason Suwito). Standouts include comparison anthem “Brutus” and “Scared of the Dark,” written at age 13. The album transforms darkness into witty, bright, cathartic pop. “I really hope the album emphasizes that it’s okay to have these dark moments,” Beihold says. “They really don’t last forever even if you think they might.”
Em Beihold spoke with B-Sides host Pete Mar about her intricate songwriting process, the album’s profound thematic depth, and the challenges of artistic authenticity in the modern music landscape, and more.
