SXSW 2014 Band Highlight: Big Phony

Round two! Here I'm going to talk about singer-songwriter extraordinaire, Big Phony aka: Bobby Choi.

Unlike most of the acts I write about on this blog, Big Phony can most accurately be "categorized" almost exclusively in the singer/songwriter genre.  Not a whole lot of rock 'n roll in there, but that doesn't mean he's not worth a listen.

Big Phony grew up in New York with his family, but stayed behind to pursue his musical education when they moved out to LA. Being alone in New York at the young age of 14 left a lot of time to develop his own musical style. When it was time to choose a college, he left for a Christian college in Boston, but soon realized that his plans of becoming a pastor weren't for him. He moved out to LA to once again stalk the evasive beast that is musical success.


Over the next few years, he would  go between New York and LA, building up his fan base, and music portfolio. Then, in 2011, he decided to return to his parents' roots, and try entering the Korean music market, and took the leap over the pond to see what he could do in there.

Since then, Big Phony has steadily added song writing credits to his name, not just making albums, but also writing for television and movies. His song To Find My Way was used in the 2012 Korean film My Way, and was performed by the acclaimed singer, Andrea Bocelli. He has also hosted several radio programs in Korea, including Music Planet with fellow singer/songwriter J.Ae. Needless to say, the man has been busy building up his name.

This month saw the release of two full studio albums by Big Phony. The first, an acoustic set of tracks titled Bobby, featuring his signature mellow beats and heartwarming, yet poignant lyrics. The second, an alternate, electronic side to Big Phony, called Long Live the Lie. Both albums have their own strengths, but I'll admit that Long Live The Lie pulled me in further. I also found it interesting to think that it reminded me of IAMMEDIC, only to find out that the front man of the band, Enik Lin was the producer of Long Live the Lie. Heh, small world!

If you're curious to check out either album, he's got previews up for them both on his SoundCloud account.

Bobby:

Long Live the Lie:

For more information about Big Phony, find him on Twitter, Facebook, SoundCloud, Instagam and YT

Big Phony has two official SXSW Showcases lined up.

The first is opening for the SeoulSonic set at Icenhaurs on Thursday, March 13th at 9:00pm.

The second showcase is Friday, March 14th at Stephen F's Bar starting at 9:00 again.

If you're in Austin, be sure to check his music out, and of course, come let me know what you think!