Creativity in Motion - Rob Perna Jr.’s Journey Through Music, Art, and Community Impact
Rob Perna Jr., also known as "The Funky Starchild," is a vibrant force in the world of music, visual arts, and community-building. His feature on FreeMind Local: West Chester, PA dives deep into his life as a guitarist, educator, and advocate for creative expression, proving that passion and resilience are the keys to thriving in any field.
Music: A Lifelong Love Affair
Rob’s journey with music began in high school, where he founded The New Kings of Rhythm, a band that continues to play after over 30 years. Drawing inspiration from blues legends like Ike Turner and the funk powerhouses of James Brown and Parliament Funkadelic, Rob carved his niche as both a performer and bandleader.
Collaborations: Through projects like Onyx & Honey with his partner Nikki, Rob has embraced collaborative songwriting, showcasing his growth as a musician.
Teaching the Next Generation: Early in his career, Rob discovered a passion for teaching guitar, educating up to 40 students weekly. His influence has shaped countless aspiring musicians.
Visual Arts: Expression Beyond Music
Though music dominates Rob's creative universe, visual arts became a significant outlet during his incarceration and the COVID-19 pandemic. His art, ranging from detailed pen-and-ink drawings to innovative mixed-media sculptures, reflects the same passion and creativity that fuel his music.
Art in Quarantine: The Corner Art Collective in West Chester provided Rob his first opportunity to publicly display his artwork, fostering a newfound confidence in his visual expression.
Multimedia Success: Rob’s iconic "skull with piano teeth" design has become a sought-after motif, appearing on shirts, stickers, and sculptures.
Overcoming Challenges: A Story of Redemption
Rob’s journey has been marked by significant challenges, including legal battles and time spent in prison. However, these experiences became transformative moments, pushing him to reflect, grow, and channel his energy into creative pursuits.
Prison Projects: While incarcerated, Rob taught fellow inmates to play guitar, organized bands, and wrote hundreds of songs. This period cemented his role as a mentor and advocate for creative rehabilitation.
Post-Incarceration Resilience: Upon release, Rob embraced opportunities to share his art and music, creating a lasting impact on his community.
Community Impact: Building Bridges Through Creativity
Rob is deeply connected to his West Chester roots, contributing to the local arts scene and events like the Look Around Music and Arts Festival. His efforts go beyond performance, aiming to inspire and uplift those around him.
Collaborative Spirit: Partnerships with local artists, through groups like the Corner Art Collective, highlight Rob’s commitment to fostering a supportive creative community.
Inspiring Future Creatives: Rob’s story resonates with those navigating their own creative journeys, proving that perseverance and passion can lead to incredible achievements.
Call to Action
Rob Perna Jr.’s story is a celebration of resilience, creativity, and community. Explore his music with The New Kings of Rhythm or Onyx & Honey, and experience his visual art at local exhibitions. Whether you’re a budding musician, an art enthusiast, or simply seeking inspiration, Rob’s journey offers valuable lessons on turning challenges into opportunities.
To support Rob’s work or learn more about the Look Around Music and Arts Festival, visit Onyx and Honey Music and follow Rob on Instagram at @funkystarchild78.
Photography Credit - Kevin Matsanka - West Chester, Pa Photographer
