WHO IS ERRUNHRD?

Shirin Ghoujalou, known by her stage name Errunhrd, is a Canadian singer, songwriter, record producer, and writer.

Hailing from Niagara Falls, Shirin began writing songs at the age of 12 and producing music by 15. Her unique sound and emotive artistry have earned her recognition, including a feature on BBC Introducing in Scotland for her song "Ruminate (Meditate)" from her debut album You Can Be You, I Can Be Me.

Errunhrd’s music has captivated critics for its hauntingly eerie instrumentals, ambient soundscapes, and ethereal vocals. Shirin draws influence from a wide spectrum of genres, such as ambient, alternative, electronica, hip-hop, classical, and experimental pop, blending them seamlessly into her own distinctive style.

In early 2016, Shirin created Errunhrd as a solo project, having previously been a part of several bands. Eager to explore her own creative path, she set out to define her personal musical and lyrical identity. Inspired by experimental synth-pop acts like New Order and Grimes, as well as alternative bands like Daughter and London Grammar, Shirin aimed to create a fusion of alternative rock and experimental electronic music.

Shirin's musical journey began with folk and rock guitar. To deepen her love and understanding of the the guitar, studied jazz, classical, and flamenco guitar, along with music production in university. This inspired her to experiment more with electronic music production. Today, Shirin programs and uses software synthesizers and drum machines in her production, though she still incorporates guitar in her music when it serves as a central element.

The core of Errunhrd’s sound is a balance of darkness and light, creating a captivating atmosphere that Shirin describes as “some kind of melancholy hope.” Her music explores complex emotions, blending sorrow and beauty. The lyrics she writes are deeply personal and come from her own life experiences, always raw and genuine. Her work serves as an unfiltered reflection of her inner world.

Shirin believes that music provides a unique language for emotions that cannot be expressed through words alone. In her own experience, she struggled to find music that represented the fear, angst, and existential longing she felt while navigating relationships with others. As a result, she created Errunhrd to channel and communicate these powerful emotions. 

The name Errunhrd (pronounced “err unheard”) was chosen by Shirin because she felt it accurately described the unheard emotions she expresses in her music - the “error,” the non-happy-go-lucky emotions - emotions such as fear, pain, worry, and sadness (error emotions + unheard/unseen = Errunhrd). It reflects her desire to give voice to the emotional struggles often left unspoken in everyday life.

Errunhrd is currently working on her sophomore album, Everything I've Ever Known, that promises to further explore these themes of personal reflection and emotional depth. 

With her distinctive blend of electronic, ambient, and alternative influences, Shirin continues to carve out a space for herself in the world of music, using her artistry to connect deeply with listeners who share in the emotional complexity of the human experience.

Be sure to check her Facebook and Instagram for shows and updates.