K-Pop’s first hard-of-hearing act Big Ocean are ready to make a splash in New York City on Aug. 1 at the Sound of Brasil (SOB’s) in SoHo for their United States tour, Ride the Wave.
Last year, Big Ocean burst into the Big Apple like a tidal wave, meeting fans, promoting their first EP, “Follow”, and even teaming up with the NYPD for a surprise visit to St. Joseph’s School for the Deaf. These superstars have dedicated themselves to spreading awareness and resilience, overcoming stereotypes that attempted to dictate the lives of those who are deaf or hard of hearing.
The trio has incorporated technological tools like smartwatches that vibrate to the musical beats, metronomes to help with rhythm timing, and sign language into their choreography, underscoring that those with disabilities can indeed pursue their passion in the music industry.
Like a hidden pearl being uncovered from the depths of the sea, Big Ocean first debuted on April 20, 2024, which is known as South Korea’s Day of People with Disabilities. While they have been a representation for the deaf community, they told amNewYork that they are K-Pop artists who want to empower their listeners. According to the group, everyone has a struggle or difficulty they are trying to overcome, and Big Ocean wants the world to know that things will be alright, and you will beat it.
“Music is not only heard by sound but also by eyes and hearts. (We sing in sign languages) We try to convey the shift of paradigm about music and redefine it. Likewise, we can all redefine our lives and success in all different shades of ways,” Big Ocean told amNewYork.
Fans, affectionately known as Pados, can now look forward to their stateside performance this summer, featuring their latest hit single, “BUCKET HAT,” as well as their second EP, “Underwater.” Big Ocean’s theme utilizes the concept of underwater communication, in which scuba divers communicate with a form of sign language. In their latest album, they are portrayed as mermen, ready to entice listeners with their siren song.
“Streaming statistics and fan event participation all point to the conclusion that our biggest fandom is in the States. We are very excited to finally get to meet our most passionate Pados. We also prepared individual special stages to commemorate this moment,” Big Ocean said.
Although they did not perform, in 2024, amNewYork followed Big Ocean as they looked to spread the importance of inclusivity and the power those living with disabilities still have. Meeting with children at Joseph’s School for the Deaf alongside members of the NYPD, they showcased that even being deaf or hard of hearing does not mean children cannot grow up to be pop stars. It is this message the group is looking to showcase on a global scale.
