commonROK's Journey

Let's Take a Ride on the life and musical journey with commonROK, where his love for the Lord and passion for music results in creativity to bless others and himself.

Picture was taken when commonROK performed song "Not Yet" at his milestone birthday celebration. The song is available on streaming platforms (playing now- need to unmute to hear sound and click on CC to see lyrics). The song will be reproduced/re-released on his next album called: Smooth Relationship Coaster

Favorite Bible Verses in Relation to Music

Make a joyful noise to the Lord, all the earth; break forth into joyous song and and sing praises (Psalm 98:4 Revised Standard Version[RSV])

"being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to the completion until the day of Christ Jesus " (Philippians 1:6 New International Version[NIV])

" His lord said unto him, Well done good and faithful servant, thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make you ruler over many things; enter thou into the joy of thy lord " (Matthew 25:23 King James Version [KJV])

Alright so now lets learn about how commonROK got into music

By the way, the intentional pun "Take a Ride" is the title of commonROK's (previously went by ROK) first album (a CD) that he plans on remastering and re-releasing in 2026.

One of his songs from that album, Hats off to the G.O.D. was released on streaming platforms over two years ago when he decided to get back into music. Pretty catchy song (Old school rap style) with a message that honors God.

In this song commonROK shares about his faith journey and why we should take our hats off (always give respect) to God always.

Origin of commonROK Name previously ROK ( Discussed on Home Page]
Artist name, is reflective of his name: Robert O Kumi hence the ROK... with the prefix, common, to make it clear that God can use anyone (common people) to fulfill God's plan and purposes.

Musical Influences Over Time

Overview:
I have always been interested in music from my infancy and have been self-taught with occasional input from friends and family, who have musical talent/experience. That is, I have no formal music training and have taken only a handful of voice lessons- need to get back to that. I joined a church choir briefly but that came to an abrupt end for personal reasons.

I've performed live in public settings less than 10-times (Church and recently at a kararoke event at a hotel (first time). I released my first album in 2004 on CD that I shared with family and close friends. I still have a few copies 😀 .

Childhood

Back in the day, I was mainly exposed to soul, funk and R&B music. I vaguely recall going to a James Brown concert and insisted my Dad take me back stage to meet him. The Jacksons mesmerized me as well. As a pre-teen, country music was the order of the day. I enjoyed songs by Anne Murray and Dolly Parton, as well as Kenny Rogers' songs about real life especially in his crossover hits with Lionel Richie.

Adolescence early Adult

I came to the Christian faith in my mid-teens and was 100% into Christian music essentially not listening to any secular music. The music by Andrae Crouch, Micheal Card and Don Moen were impactful. As a young adult, music by Helen Baylor, Bebe & Cece Winans, and Billy and Sarah Gaines was my "bread and butter". I also fell in love with Smooth Jazz.

This was when I began writing my own songs about my life, sharing songs with family, and started play the guitar (borrowed from a friend - could not afford to buy one)

Adulthood

Living from paycheck to paycheck, I will never forget the time I won the Bebe and Cece Winans Christmas CD. To win the CD you had to be one of the first three callers. I was so blessed. Over time God gave me some resources so I finally could afford to buy a keyboard and CDs to pursue my passion. I wrote many songs- still have the handwritten lyrics, chord progressions etc. The songs helped me express my life's journey. Enjoyed songs by Commissioned, Kirk Franklin, Carman, and Nicole C Mullen. Also got into rap music: A1 Swift, Gospel Ganstaz and Will Smith. Smooth jazz is still my go to as I enjoy the creativity My first CD Take a Ride was informed by these musical influences.

Current

Over the past 6 years I have reconnected with church hymns as well as contemporary praise and worship that honor God, are anchored in scripture, mention God (Father, Son and Holy Spirit) and are not too loud or repetitive. Has been great to listen to songs from when I first came to faith. One day Godwilling, I will compile my own songs into a praise and worship album. I have a couple of key playlists that I listen to when I go on long reflective walks. Here are some of my go to songs:

Be Still my Soul by Selah

Lord I offer my life to you by Don Moen

I'm gonna be ready by Yolanda Adams

Build my Life by Housefires

Hymn of Heaven Phil Wickham

Encouragement and Advice

Do not bury your talent or abilities out of fear, rather be a good steward and use the gift(s) to multiply them for God's glory (purposes). Could be making music, going the extra mile, loving your enemies, sacrificing for others, being humble, and TRUSTING GOD

My Goal and Dream - Vision

My goal in developing and launching this website is to share the core message of Christianity the GOOD NEWS (aka GOSPEL): God's love and forgiveness embodied in unmerited grace that leads to eternal life. If a song or some songs minister to you, please share with others so they will also be blessed. Imagine a new artist or a well-established singer taking some of these songs to another level and reaching far more people for Christ than I can as an independent artist. This is the treasure of my heart (Matthew 6:21) that I am willing to share with people.

Example of Partnership Opportunity

Thanks to my wife, I was blessed to attend a Cece Winans concert (December 2025); experiencing Cece's ministry live, reinforced my dream that Cece could bless people with the song the Battle is the Lord's. The song Rejoice and be Glad could bless people in a praise & worship setting where singers minister.

PLEASE if there's a way for you to connect me with an artist such as Cece Winans, Yolanda Adams, Chris Tomlin, or Phil Wickham that would be great- Gospel may reach many people based on their well-established ministries.

PLEASE email me if you would like to discuss further possible collaboration or if you can connect me with an up and coming or established artist who may want to sing my song(s).

Mission

Quotes from commonROK prior to releasing album in 2026

" My goal is to use the gift I believe God has given me to primarily share the gospel (good news) and let God's will be done on earth as it is in heaven while here on earth.

May God's will be done in my life and all our lives. Amen!

"I believe that we all have a calling from God and if we listen (Heed the Call) and obey God's calling we will accomplish God's purpose for us while we are here on earth. We all have a purpose. We should choose to take the narrow path and follow the Way, the Life and the Truth"

Yes, Robert has chosen to accept his God-given mission (calling) as a songwriter and music producer. Robert will continue to work on music even if it is not "perfect" to fulfill the calling, as God gives him opportunities, strength and ability while he has breath.

He believes in using his God-given talent to share God's peace, love, hope, and real-life experiences through engaging music and joyful noise. Thus, he is dedicated to creating music that glorifies God and uplifts the spirit. Robert as the artist commonROK does this by combining traditional and digital media- primarily from home studio but plans to branch out and go to recording studios if viable.

Robert will fulfill his mission by reaching out to you: family, friends, former and current work colleagues and strangers to help us all establish our faith and/or build our faith in Christ the solid rock. As we connect in a godly way, we can grow our Christ-based loving relationships with each other and most importantly with God. Please let people know about commonROK music. Thank You.

HOW YOU CAN HELP commonROK fulfill his mission

Please listen to the music on Streaming Platforms (Music Tab) or on this website, where a song (mp3 version) will be posted periodically (for free). Kindly consider purchasing individual songs (Music Tab) or the entire album; as well as making a donation to commonROK (Partnership tab),

In case you have
Questions about
the Christian Faith

1. If you have questions about what it means to be a Christian, consider getting and reading a physical copy of the Bible (e.g New King James Version, New American Standard Bible, or English Standard). Many local churches give bibles away for free.

Consider starting with the book of John or one of the 3 other gospels to understand the historically verified existence of Jesus and what he said and did. Highlight areas of interest and begin praying to God.

2. If you don't have access to a hard copy of the bible, check out various online resources to get to know God through HIS WORD, the BIBLE e.g. via App StoreYou Version- https://www.youversion.com/bible-app (link)

3. Do some research online and find a reputable local bible-based church that you can visit and grow and fellowship with other Christians

4. Speak with a mature believer or contact me and I will help you or connect you with you an appropriate resource.

Note: I am far from perfect and growing in my faith- I've been a believer for > 40 years, but can help you.

5. For sound Christian doctrine you can check out Renewing Your Mind Podcasts by Ligonier Ministries. Provides basic as well as deep theological teaching- https://www.renewingyourmind.org/archive (link)