Signmark facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Signmark
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Signmark performing at the Night of the Arts festival 2009 in Helsinki
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| Background information | |
| Birth name | Marko Vilhelm Vuoriheimo |
| Born | 26 June 1978 |
| Origin | Helsinki, Finland |
| Genres | Hip hop |
| Occupation(s) |
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| Instruments | Vocals |
| Years active | 2004–present |
| Labels | Warner |
| Associated acts | MC mahtotapa, DJ sulava |
Marko Vilhelm Vuoriheimo, known as Signmark, is a Finnish hip hop artist. He was born on June 26, 1978. Signmark is deaf, and he uses sign language in his music. He believes that deaf people are not disabled. Instead, he sees them as a special group with their own language and culture. His music often shares important messages.
Contents
Signmark's Early Life and Music
Signmark was born in Helsinki, Finland. He started creating his own music in 2004. However, he had been signing poetry and music since he was a child. Christmas carols were some of the first songs he learned to sign.
How Signmark Creates Music
When Signmark performs, he makes his signs rhyme. He does this by using hand shapes that are similar. The bass sound in the music is very important to him. It helps him follow the beat and time his rhymes. His facial expressions also help to show the meaning of his signs. He often improvises, which means he makes up parts of his performance on the spot.
Signmark's Albums and Songs
Signmark released his first album, called Signmark, on November 29, 2006. This album came with a CD of the music and a DVD with signed music videos. The album had eight songs. Many of these songs talked about the history and rights of the Finnish signing community. His songs use a freeform style of signing. Even though the sung versions of his songs rhyme, his signed versions are more open.
Later Albums
Signmark has released several other albums. These include Breaking the Rules in 2010, Silent Shout in 2014, and Deam Awake in 2018.
Eurovision Song Contest
Signmark tried to represent Finland in the 2009 Eurovision Song Contest. He won his first qualifying round on January 23, 2009. He performed the song Speakerbox with another artist named Osmo Ikonen. Signmark received 46.5% of the votes in that round. In the finals on January 31, he came in second place. Waldo's People won that year.
Signing with Warner Music
In May 2009, the original Signmark group separated. After that, Signmark signed a record deal with Warner Music. He became a solo artist. This was a big moment because he was the first deaf person to sign a recording contract with a major international music company.
Signmark's Film Work
Signmark also appeared in a film. He was in Marko's Diary, which was released in 2018.
See also
In Spanish: Signmark para niños
