Shagrath is one of the founding members of Dimmu Borgir, along with Silenoz and Tjodalv. Shagrath's change from playing guitar to singing is a part of what changed the band's sound. His contributions extend into the use of keyboards, bass guitar, and drums; as can be heard on For All Tid.

Shagrath also played guitar and drums in Fimbulwinter until the band split up in 1994. Fimbulwinter released one album, Servants of Sorcery, through Hot Records in 1994. Shagrath also played keyboards in another Norwegian black metal band called Ragnarok. Another unknown band was Starkness, a solo project of Shagrath. He is also the rhythm guitarist of the heavy metal band Chrome Division.

Musical influences: Devil Doll, Rob Zombie etc

Bands: Fimbulwinter, Starkness & Chrome Division