Welsh Psychologist Does a Meta-Reaction to Hi Ren. This is what I want to see in a Reaction!
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- Опубліковано 11 тра 2023
- Psychology lecturer Dr Nic ANALYZES and REACTS! Subscribe here:
/ @nichooper7
This reaction is concerned with the song that started me on this UA-cam Journey, that of 'Hi Ren' by @RenMakesMusic
My first analysis of this song did so from the perspective of mental health (link below) but it wasn't good enough because it didn't manage to break down why the song is so incredible. This 2nd video, I hope, achieves that.
Below are links to a few other of my videos that you might like.
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Thanks loads for stopping by!
Nic
#mentalhealth #mentalhealthmatters #wellbeing #reaction #reactionvideo #psychology #analysis #lecturer #professor - Розваги
I watch reactions since I can never again watch the video for the first time. I judge their reaction to the line "the sound that you hear when you loosen the noose of the rope". Those are the people I could be friends with.
Ah great stuff Cia. For me, it was the 'you gotta kill you if you wanna kill me' line combined with the message of hope at the end. The singing towards the end of the song is a big one as well! By the way, can you tell me your interpretation of that line you mentioned? I'll be interested to know what you take from it.
Exactly my thought. Also, I check how reactors react to the tales. If they are unfazed it's a huge red flag 😂
@@lillyvanpug With the tales, Im unfazed by the words and the aggression, but I am astounded by the underlying message of them i.e. about how people are born out of context and so who are we to judge them.
@@nichooper7 unfortunately as a fellow Violet I am not unfazed, so whenever I see people still bopping their head with a grin or smile on their face while Stevie rampages, it's a red flag all the way 🚩🚩🚩
"the sound that you hear when you loosen the noose of the rope" = mercy
Having watch more Hi Ren reaction videos than I can count, a clear structure seems to emerge, the 7 stages of a Hi Ren reaction as it were:
1. This is a bit weird.
2. I wasn’t expecting that.
3. This guy can really rap AND act.
4. This guy can sing as well?!
5. This is actual art.
6. Ren is a genius.
7. “Wow” followed by a contemplative silence.
Yes
Yes
Yes, I think that's about it. And then you watch it again and pick up on the genius details that you missed 1st time!
You missed goosebumps when hope arrives.
@@daibonehead ...and the moment, he stands up... The whole song is like a manifest for all these, who know that fight. (quite a lot)
At 16:00 when I got to this point I simply burst into tears as Ren started to sing at the top of his lungs. Ren states in interviews that he is very meticulous about virtually every aspect of his videos. I would expect that making 'Hi Ren' for Ren was a very stressful and fulfulling in equal measure. Ren is my one and only rap artist that I can watch. Contemporary rap is not my thing at all; I find that the non-melodic and repiticious nature of rap today is boring. However, Ren take rap and twists and flips and gyrates and piroettes and does proverbial backflips with it. That is pure beauty.
I agree on both counts! The singing really got to me but the way that he raps really seems special (though Im no expert in rap to be fair!)
Totally agree
The saddest thing about hearing a song by Ren is that you'll never be able to hear it for the first time again. The closest we get to that is seeing other people experience it for the first time. Ren is (imho) a once in a generation, maybe once in a lifetime, artist. Not musician, not singer, not even songwriter, but *artist*. I feel blessed to hear his music at this early stage in what I'm sure will be a very distinguished career. Dr. Nic, if you would like to hear another song by another artist who touches on a mental health issue, may I suggest a song by Dax - 'To Be A Man' It is basically an attempt to explain what a man's life, responsibilities, and pressures are like. Not taking anything at all away from Ren by suggesting it, but I think you might find some important points to speak on from that song as well.
Hey Kismet, I agree about Ren and will take a look at Dax - thanks loads for the suggestion! Nic
I hadn't watched reactions until Hi Ren either, yet now I've seen more than I care to admit! It feels as though there has been a collective awakening to the fact that so many people from all walks of life have those thoughts too. Maybe not for the same reasons, or manifesting in the same way, but considering how taboo much mental health stuff still is in many quarters, Ren's ability to open a window into how common those struggles are in such a non-judgemental way has been wonderful to see. I've seen musicians excited by a song for the first time since Smells Like Teen Spirit. Men who have hidden intrusive thoughts break down in tears at the realisation that they aren't alone. Chronically ill people finally feeling like they have representation that isn't sympathy prn or toxic-positivity b'llocks about "beating" their illness. It has been heartening to witness people of all ages around the world realising that acceptance isn't defeat; quite the opposite.
Many reactors comment on how devoted Ren's fans are. I don't think it's just fangirling, but a sense in so many of us that more people need these messages in their lives. Thank you for being part of the effort to broadcast a better understanding of Hi Ren, ourselves, and each other.
Yes. Those are the things that make the Renegade community great. ❤
Yes! What you've written in that 1st paragraph is what I've spent 15 years teaching people. Yet not enough know the perspective. Ren has changed that hasn't he!
And no worries Kate, I'm honoured to make these videos - it helps me to contribute to the spreading of the message you detailed in that 1st paragraph, which brings me fulfilment.
Very well put!
I wanted to leave a comment on this reaction because I loved it. But then I read your comment and thought... Okay, well, I guess she said it all ❤
@@andreamaludy3536 Thanks so much Andrea! Kate did write something profound there didn't she!
I think we enjoy how well Ren produces this song everyone can relate with it. I for one never thought that I couldn’t rid myself of depression I now accept that will have it till I go in my box. Final thought how CNN can say he is advocating suicide with song shows how little they investigate into their documentary
It won't stay the same Craig, as long as you keep pressing buttons in the world. That's the thing about our thought stuff, they're like storms that come and go. But the thing about storms is that we can still live in them, and achieve meaning while they take place. That was deep on a Friday night wasn't it! That CNN thing was ludicrous.
The Ren interview by Justin Howkins !Thank you for your reaction.
I still haven't managed to watch that interview! It's on my list! Thanks for the comment Denise!
One thing I noticed for myself was that when Ren 1st "oohs/yodels" at the beginning, it almost seems dissonant, but after he shows that there is hope, the oohs he makes are perfect for the place where his mind dwells. That sound was like a gift to us for following the story. Then the monologue was off the charts.
Nice analysis! I hadn't considered that but you're right, the function of the yodels change from the beginning to the end of the song! Thanks for the contribution!
I tried to do the ooohs. It actually feels good to yodel that way. Physically it is very soothing
I think I started down the Reaction Rabbit hole (not just of Hi Ren but of all Ren's catalog) for similar reasons. That rapidly changed as different reactors highlighted *the things I missed*. Then, it escalated to reacting to comments both on the reaction and sharing about the song.
Eventually, after watching Money Game 1 and 2, again (for the I-don't-know-how-many-times) it clicked that Ren is, intentionally or otherwise, showing how to use social media "for good". Hi Ren started a circular feedback between Ren, Reactors, and Fans that is pulling everyone up. And it just keeps blowing up--while avoiding the Capitalist tropes (see money game pt 2 to better understand what I mean... steps 1-10) that damage people. It's also strengthening the community at the same time.
You know, I hadn't thought about it that way but youre exactly right. There is a change in the way that people treat each other as a result of the song, because he has modelled a way of being.
Same with me … I had only watched 2 reaction videos before Hi REN … now I call watching ren reactions my new hobby
I’m 46 and the first time I watched hi Ren ,, I knew I’d just witnessed something special but it was only when I listened the 2nd time it’s powerful ness truly hit me and I found myself crying on a packed train ,, then every time subsequently for about the next 15 times ,, it really is very special but not everyone is gonna compute it’s genius on the first go ,, so I can forgive a lot of the reactors for not reacting magnificently
Yea I do agree. I definitely dont blame reactors for not picking up on the things I look for, I just feel disappointed if they dont! I had a similar experience with Hi Ren, it's the most special song I've heard.
I am 45 and fully agree with you! I still get tears when the sentence "I was meant to be broken and beat " starts.. With dropping tears at "some people know me as hope" ❤❤❤
This explains it for me a bit more, cause I'm almost up to 600 reaction videos of Ren. I feel like Ren has reconfigured my mind and REN-EWED my soul!
Great stuff Joel - the man has plenty of wisdom there worthy of our admiration. Thanks for the comment! Nic
Yes
I watch reactions for two main reasons. One being that I want to watch others experience pieces of music that I adore. It makes me feel less alone.
The second reason I watch reactions is to hear what they have to say. For them to point out the things I missed and add to the piece. I think your first reaction was my favorite because I wanted a professional in psychology to break things down and dive into the theory of Hi Ren.
Oh Im glad you appreciated that video William! I'm sad that you feel alone. But I'm all for the vulnerability and authenticity you're showing. It reminds me of some of the qualities that I love in another person - Ren.
Hi William, I just posted pretty much the same comment before I read yours! Empathy and kinship, the feeling of belonging and sharing in other peoples joy....
There is an AI reaction and strangely it is closer to your 10 point reaction than I would have believed possible and better than a lot of humans . The other reason to see many reactions is to support Ren and interact with the reactors. Because weather they get it or not if they have increased interaction on their channel they will be encouraged to review even more of his work.
Great work on this reaction . ❤❤❤
Lol! Wow, so an AI knows us better than we know ourselves! Scary stuff! That's a great point about reaction videos. I can see how Ren fans would be invested in encouraging reactors, because it prompts them to do more therefore raising overall awareness. You can really feel the momentum with though cant you!
Really enjoyed both of your reactions.
One phrase that really smacked me was “truth in a blender”. Ren’s dark voice always was at least partially truthful. And truth in a blender is pretty apt description for much of the Information Age.
Thanks Dan, really appreciate you sending over the positivity! Truth in a blender is a hell of a line isn't it. It's the sort of sneaky thing that a mind would say when it was trying to influence our behaviour.
I absolutely love the phrase “truth in a blender” ❤
I've watched close to a hundred reactions of Hi Ren. But I also rewatch the original video almost daily so I've seen it probably 50 times. The more I watch it the more I struggle to believe that Ren actually did it. The level of courage it took to do that leaves me in awe. The ability to pull it of the way that he did, leaves me in awe. Everything about Hi Ren simply leaves me in awe and that feeling hasn't diminished over time. It really is something extraordinary. as I type that word I have the feeling that it isn't enough. I don't think there is an adjective in the English language that captures what Hi Ren is.
Hey Darcy - I couldn't agree more with your sentiments - it's why I think he will come to dominate the music industry, because he is genius.
One of the big takeaways for me is how the song progression hooks the viewer. During the first few back and forths, Ren uses relatability and humor to engage the audience, and when he has your full attention, he throws a gut punch with Bad Ren's chaos rant. He then throws another with the emotion of Good Ren's retort. Also, although nearly the same ooo-ooo-ooo is done at the beginning and end, the first time he sounds bat-shit crazy, but the second time he sounds triumphant.
Yes James! I hadn't considered either of those things but they're really important in understanding the power of the piece. Great analysis and I thank you for sending it over! Nic
The comparison to Eminem and Plan B is genius because it validates the reactor's commentary that mentioned the comparison earlier and draws them in even more. I've seen reactors stop at the "manage expectations" and "God complex" because those terms hit hard in their personal experience. The "creative process and if people relate is just a bonus" line is something every creator says and can connect with. I have not seen too many people mention that the last chord played is an unresolved chord, meaning the story is never completed and highlights the eternal dance of life. This performance speaks to creators that find it hard to push through with an idea. It's too easy to give up because the tech is difficult to figure out and worried that the piece is not going to be accepted or understood, so why even try. Creators need to push through the doubt and make crap, then keep working on it to make it better and with perseverance, make something that connects. Superstars are rare, but how long is the list of one hit wonders. Keep dancing and never give up.
Yes, some great messages in your message there. It speaks to the idea that our mind will often talk us out of things that are good for us in the long term, and as a result our vitality narrows. A lot of the early stuff in your message I only picked up on after reading peoples comments on reaction videos!
Perfect.
Born in 1963, short after my 60th Birthday i discovered Ren. It wasn't love at first sight, when i saw him at Justin Hawkins. My first thought was that there is just another jodeling clown. But couriosity led me to a second try. And now, in may, i am deep in the rabbit hole. Because his ability to carry so many important things in his lyrics, combined with great music, gives me the energy and clearity to handle my own things better.
Especially this one line in "Hi Ren", "when you loosen the noose of the rope", hits me deep. And in his monologue when he mentions the eternal dance. It is near to my own experience, to calm down and soften.
And on this way i discovered so many reactors, which led me to your channel.
Continue your good work! 👌
An experience not too dissimilar from my own. When I saw Hi Ren for the 1st time, I thought 'OMG, this is about the most important thing I've learned about mental health - acceptance!'. Since then, the messages in Rens songs are consistent with the messages of the approach to mental health that I think it going is going to make the world a better place (ACT - which I talk about in that other video). Thanks loads for the contribution here! Nic
So glad you gave Ren a second try. My first go at Ren's work was Hi Ren and it was... intense... for a number of reasons. But I'm glad I chose to "trust the process".
@@bethosbornefischer3315 I had this dissatisfaction with my other video, and so Im glad I made this one. It feels like I've gotten off my chest a responsibility I feel to tell as many people as I can about this. Thanks Beth
I misinterpreted the 'loosen the noose...' line at first. Possibly because I've never even considered suicide, I took it to mean someone who was a victim of hanging and the relief they must feel if the hangman takes the rope off. Either way, it's a powerful line and provocative.
I was also born in 63, though I'm not yet 60; not quite yet. What are people of our age doing 'Stanning' over a music artist? It must mean something.
@@davidmorgan6896 Yea great observation there. It feels like people with wisdom are spotting the wisdom here. My analytics shows that very few my watchers are below 30, which isn't interesting isn't it.
This is the first time I have ever commented on any thing on any channel, not even sure how I stumbled across this video but all I can say is I was speechless with a tear in my eye at the end (and this really is not what I would consider my type of music) but It was amazing and can't stop watching it or the other song of his I heard with Chinchilla called CHALK OUTLINES which is also brilliant
Welcome Greg - many others had that experience when they came across this song and this fella Ren!
“Hi Ren” has effected me in so many ways it will take me years to unpack he has moved & shaken me to the core. Words such as brilliant & genius are trite, vapid, lacking in expression & understanding of what we are truly seeing and hearing….…..how we have bastardized our language.
To be trite “Hi Ren” and Ren’s other video’s blow my mind each time I watch any of them which is at least once a day. Ren IS a phenomenon, a GENIUS who’s brilliance lies in illness, pain & heart wrenching introspection I have a very deep and unending respect & awe for this man.
Thank you Dr. Nic for your very calm & thought out review of Hi Ren. I understand why you spent a crazy amount of time watching & re-watching others reviews(which clearly I did also) because Ren IS brave & amazing on so many levels he’s hard to turn off and not return to.
Thanks Denise! My experience and thoughts about Ren mirror yours! Nic
I'm 63 and have loved music always. Have seen many of the best rock and blues performers of my lifetime. This video blew my mind. The performance/lyrics/playing/acting/ filming all incredible. But the depth and meaning of the message is the most profound musical message I've ever experienced!
Couldn't agree more.
Thanks so much for taking the time to comment and fingers crossed Ren continues to put out more mind blowing music.
This is the kind of artistry that gives "broken" people hope. Ren, through this performance piece, has become to a lot of people exactly what he stated in the song, "...the voice that you hear when you loosen the noose on the rope". So powerful, so impactful. The song structure itself is incredible. It starts off as a battle between his positive (Angel) and negative (Demon) aspects, the negative then makes an overpowering last ditch effort to reign supreme, tearing free and trying to take control, but ultimately fails as the final act, being the "God" aspect, emerges Triumphant, though still acknowledging and accepting that it will ALWAYS be a battle because we are all "a coin with 2 different sides". It's a beautifully cathartic and raw musical masterpiece. Ren is truly special. Welcome to the Ren rabbit-hole, it's a trip worth taking. This was the 4th take he did and yes, it was done live. Wait until you hear some of his other stuff, especially his storytelling ("The Tale of Jenny & Screech"). You haven't even touched the breadth of this young man's talent yet.
The pig character (imo) represents the doctors and therapist who have essentially butchered him for years through their misdiagnosis. It's the system that focuses on peddling more pills than on genuinely trying to help to fix broken/ill people, caring more about profit than individual health. The bastardization of the hippocratic oath. He literally thought he was going insane because he was told repeatedly that the pain and symptoms he was experiencing were all in his head (psychosomatic). He had reached a point where he literally resigned himself to dying before he reached 30. Turns out he had Lyme's disease the whole time and it ran rampant through his system for 10 years, even to the point of causing brain damage. Ironically, if Ren hadn't gone through what he has, would he have ever made the art he has? There's no question that his suffering has shaped his music and now he's finally getting the recognition he undoubtedly deserves. I've said it before, I'll say it again, Ren is special.
That's a lovely tribute Kenneth, and one that aligns with my views on Ren. Id be interested to know what you think of some of my other Ren analyses and reactions. I'm very new to this (watch my first Hi Ren video for that context) and so I'll be interested to know if I captured some of the depth you talk of in my videos. Thanks loads for the comment! Nic
I am sorry 10 pauses are to few, but, the first time, I listened to it, I was messing about with things in a cupboard, I just turned around and was absolutely blown away, with the music, lyrics, the look of the room, and this man, I just wanted to hug and tell him everything was going to be ok, by the end, I was in tears, and since then I like you had to watch every reaction video. Then down into the Ren rabbit hole, it’s definitely opened up my whole love of music again and drawn me to subscribe to channels like yours and other musicians. I love listening breakdowns and the opinions of others.
Sounds like our experiences of very similar! I chose 10 arbitrarily so not to overwhelm but you are correct, you could stop this video 100 times easily!
Many thanks for your second video about this extraordinary artist and his art.
this young man has managed to reach people through and with his music in a way that has rarely been seen before.
he won me over, as a mother, as a grandmother, as a human being among humans, and he made it even clearer to me how important our interactions with each other are, but also how we deal with ourselves.
that we shouldn't judge ourselves so harshly either. that we shouldn't overrate our inner critic, he has his right to exist, of course - but he shouldn't get too loud in us.
i was also very impressed that you, as a professor, found him interesting enough for your classes with your students to incorporate him into the classroom.
that says a lot!
Have a good day
Birgitt
Hi Birgitt! Thanks loads for the contribution, which totally resonates with me. Sometimes it is hard to reach students but this guy is able to reach them through his music with wonderful messages about mental health. His music helps me to illustrate these things in a really cool way.
Thanks for your time to answer me, i appreciate very much 🙂
I, also, have never watched reaction videos before. Yet, I've now learned about hip-hop and rap; I've learned about compassionate understanding and lyrical interpretations; all which are worthwhile in bringing an awareness of "others" and our shared humanity.
And, I've also been inspired by one young man who seems to be managing this human process in a noteworthy manner.
Lovely stuff Holly! An experience not too dissimilar from mine, thanks loads for the comment! Nic
Right, awesome breakdown. I kept waiting for you to say that you expect for the reactor to acknowledge the fact that the video is done live, all in one take... and you did. Also, the line "the voice that you hear when you loosen the noose on the rope" - so powerful and one of the many expressions of Ren's lyrical genius!
I also get so much from just watching the faces of the reactors. Even if they run the video through without a lot of stops, their faces say it all! I know I will never experience Hi Ren for the first time again. But by watching reaction videos, I can see the awe in their faces and experience that feeling vicariously. Ren has given us all a work of pure genius!!
Yea I think you've hit the nail on the head - vicarious awe. I like to see that too. That loosen the noose line, I haven't figured out the meaning of it yet, how do you interpret it? Finally, thanks for the encouragement and positivity : )
@@nichooper7 I think it can be interpreted at least a couple of ways, both figuratively and literally... literally as if you're on the brink of suicide, but some thought or feeling holds you back from going through with it. The other way I interpret it could be as the idea Ren states in his conversation at the end of the performance... "and I learned to relax and that dance got easier". As a kind of easing that grip on a metaphorical rope that we keep so tightly around our neck when we feel anxiety and desperation.
But I think when you've been so close to suicide or you've tried and failed, that line would be very personal.
@@b1jou123 Great, thanks for clarifying that for me. I think the acceptance sentiment lands best for me there i.e. when we manage to accept the noose loosens.
That’s the article I read and couldn’t believe I’d never heard of him (I’m in Bangor). After that I became obsessed with Reactions to RENs music. I suppose initially it was to validate my own feelings 🤔 but now I enjoy the characters that I’ve come across. In the beginning I’d just 👍 now I comment and am enjoying the interaction. True when an individual doesn’t like/get REN I have to fight myself not to comment or try to explain what’s going on. I don’t want traffic going to the haters channels😉 You’ve just elevated “comment” to another level 🫶 and kept “Ren” in the algorithms - Diolch am hwn xx
Diolch Shelley! That 1st part really resonates with me i.e. I watched reactors videos because I was convinced that other people would see the genius that I saw, and I wanted to confirm that! The interaction I've had has been totally unexpected but the most special things about my UA-cam experience in the last 6 weeks. Take care of yourself up there in North Wales! Nic
Thanks for this video too, Dr. Nic. I don't know how far you've followed Ren's catalog here on UA-cam. I think at this point, even if no new music was ever released on UA-cam featuring Ren, there is at least enough here already to teach a full 1 semester course on "Mental and Physical Health in Ren's Music." In fact, it wouldn't at all surprise me to see it go 2 semesters. And yeah, there's also enough for a couple of courses on his work for students of visual arts and music.
I haven't seen enough reviewers mention that Ren's work is captivating millions and he everything he's done to date has not been supported by the traditional music industry. It will be interesting to see whether the industry officially recognizes him soon.
I see here that you've stepped up your UA-cam game. It was a little easier to watch the music video with you today, than when we just watched it over your shoulder, thanks and congratulations.
Hey Thomas! Yes, I figured out how to do the screen on screen thing, and bought a 15 quid microphone! Those things definitely bring a more professional feel to the video! I've watched a few more of his songs and there is so much to take from them, plenty to teach a course on mental health. I've no doubt the music industry will recognise him soon - it's impossible not to with that level of genius.
I too have a new addiction of watching these reactions but have noticed how I study the reactors so hard to see if I think it really is the first time they have watched it (if that is what they have claimed). There is so much detail in all of Rens videos it would be rare for someone to pick up on everything in their first viewing ...so I question when they do. I then see in comments how viewers react if people get it wrong (scary) but I sometimes start to get aggrevated too. We become of protective of Ren but must not not forget we are human beings.
We are indeed human beings! Thanks Sally for commenting here. I agree with you that it's impossible to pick out everything, especially if the reaction is done on the hop with no preparation or editing, but the things I've highlighted in my video are basically the things Im dying to see a reaction too!
The one contribution I would add is my observation about the second Yodel. The first one, the lights are steady. The second, the lights flicker some. My interpretation is that the song starts with Ren trying to write a song. Guitar intro and Yodel. Suddenly, the second voice interrupts, Hi Ren. Then the conversation between the 2 ending with the voice of hope saying: "We are a coin of two different sides." The song creation picks up from where it left off (the first yodel) to continue into the 2nd Yodel. It combines ideas from before and adds (blinking lights) more vocal continuation. To me, it is Ren saying that his creative process has contributions from both sides. The ending soliloquy then brings in the dance, as demonstrated by both sides contributing to the creation. By relaxing and softening to let both sides contribute, this is the art we get from him.
"This is the most remarkable peice of music experience I've ever had." Yes.
That is it, exactly ❣️ I caught this video almost a year ago on my UA-cam feed. I have not gone a single day since without watching, either a new Ren song or a reaction to this song. I am 66 yrs old and live in US. This song grabbed me and squeezed me. I could not breathe. 10 minutes flashed in what seemed to be just 1. I said then, this boy is a musical genius with a point of view everyone needs to hear. ❤❤ Thank you for your input on this.
I watch Hi Ren reactions for several reasons. One is the fairly common desire to relive an experience vicariously - this is why I watch young people react to the music I loved when I was young. Another is an affirmation of my taste: I think Ren's guitar-playing/singing/rapping/story-telling/psychological insights are all fantastic and I watch experts who confirm that; you are one such. Finally, reactors give me a greater appreciation of the cleverness of each part, and of the sum of those parts, of the whole. A guitarist might open my ears to something about the playing, a vocal coach may comment on Ren's voice control etc. Of late, I have also begun to notice a sense of community. People are finding themselves compelled to react, to help lead the narrative. Most reactors are either vain or hoping for an easy career, and plenty of those reactors are struck by Ren too, but the new wave of Ren reactors seem to be inspired by something else.
Is this how cults start? Was Jesus just a really nice guy with a deep understanding of what it is to be human coupled with a gift for parables and buckets of charisma? Is Ren something more that that? I point out that Ren is now 33 and being reborn through science😁
Brilliant observations again David! A new wave of reactors indeed, inspired by Ren to do something positive in the world. It's great stuff you know!
I'll tell you, at one point I was watching reaction videos to see other people "get it", and then I was watching to get different perspectives because everyone sees something different or brings some new expertise. Videographers, singers, therapists, and people that just can relate to what the singer is sharing. Now I've watched enough videos that I'm seeing when people get it. The points in their reaction that reverberate with them. They're just little tells of course, the person probably doesn't even realize that their eyes cringe up when Ren sings "I'm the voice that you hear when you loosen the noose on the rope," but you can see they relate. So amazing.
Yes it's quite incredible that that the song is genius on so many levels. I've never watched reaction videos before that song! Thanks for commenting! Nic
Ren is his own art category encompassing all genres, writing, rapping, singing, playing, acting, directing, and producing.
His work is influenced, beyond others, by Orwell and Kubrick. He has a love for Easter eggs, references, and one-takes. His work is able to create emotions and hope, even in, or because of the saddest moments. His art is literary saving and changing people's life's!
I watches all of his videos and I am always amazed how broad his talent is! It seems that he never repeats himself.
Ren might be the greatest artist of the 21st century and we experience his rise.
Hey Thomas, no big deal, but maybe check the first line of your post, the word right after "Encompassing all genres, writing..."
@@stephenmontague6930 😆 Thank you, I corrected it!
Thanks for taking the time to comment Thomas. I agree with you about Ren. I think he'll be looked back on as the greatest! Very best wishes, Nic.
I concur with your points. The monologue at the end crystalized this from just an intense music video to a work or art. The fact that Ren’s performance transcends a standard music video or acting in a theater performance because of what he was attempting to communicate. It is art because this video, song, and performance connects deep with most of us. He even commented in his lyrics in this specific video performance. And of course when he look left straight at all of viewers through and directly at camera lens when the words “also known as hope” and “and loosens the noose of the rope” is such an important point in his song/video/performance. Simply a masterpiece even more personally profound then the tragic trilogy of Tales of Jenny and Screech (full) another masterpiece but different. I think because Ren shared a vulnerable side of himself which as he said connects with so many, including myself, who find him.
Thanks Jason, I totally agree with your analysis! Nic
I'll add one word for you Nic... silhouettes.
We will all continue to learn more and more from this!
Eh?! Please explain Paul!
@@nichooper7 LOL. Look at the shadows on the floor
Not gonna lie. I'm a survivor of trafficking and SA and all that comes with that. The very first time I saw this video, it broke me. I'm not a big crier, but when he stood up in it, it did me in.
This piece is SO good. Psychologically, musically, the layers within layers of meaning, the visual artistry, the camera work, his acting and ability to impart emotion in his voice to his viewers. It all comes together into an anthem.
I went into healthcare as an adult. I'm an EMT; I work in pre-hospital care. As a late teen and early 20-something adult, I was in that system from the patient's perspective as well. I have LADA and fibromyalgia. If I follow my family's history, I will be dealing with RA once I'm over 50, like all the women in my family have done before me. I picked up on a lot of the medical/healthcare/mental health themes in this immediately. Even the entrance on screen with the pig mask - being brought on screen by a pig butcher - by a representative of an animal that is usually on the other end of a butcher block.
I don't think anyone can truly appreciate the depths in this song because there's always different layers of meaning found in it from one person to another, because we all have our own experiences.
Honestly, that's part of the wow factor for me. The fact that it speaks to everyone in a different way, but yet it DOES speak - he's crafted an anthem here.
I've followed his work for a while now before this piece was released. But I feel like this was finally his break-out piece. It's this piece that catapaulted him into public consciousness.
There are soooo many things here that made me stop and take notice. Reactors haven't hit all of those yet. :) But that's also okay, because different reactors have hit on things I missed, too. We all cue in to different things.
I'm glad he's an independent artist; an industry recording label would smother him.
If you get the chance, take a look at some of the pieces he's done with Chinchilla. Chalk Outlines especially is intensely good from a mental health perspective. Their interaction in that one was very intimate at times, too. Like this video, that one was also filmed in one take. They knocked it out of the park.
Also look up the band he used to perform with - The Big Push. Their work was really good, too.
One other one, he recently released Animal Flow. From a psychological perspective that one is absolutely fascinating, too.
My apologies for writing a novel in your comment section. :) I don't often leave comments on things, but when I do, I never could keep my comments brief.
Hey Seliah, not at all, your essay is much appreciated. It is heart warming to think of the way that this song connects with people and I agree with all of your sentiments. This song really does feel like a breakout piece and Im convinced he will become a mega star from here, and deservedly so. I'll take a look at Chalk Outlines and animal flow! Thanks for taking the time to comment! Nic
Thank you so much for posting this. I'm on my 4th month of watching Ren's music on UA-cam AND watching others react to Ren's music. It just never gets old, and getting the justification of me seeing genius is in fact true.
Oh yea, you're certainly not alone there! I reckon he's going to get massive! Thanks for taking the time to comment! Nic
I’ve watched a ridiculous amount of reaction videos to this song. Thank you for yours. It was perfect.
Ah that means a lot to me, thank you. I was really invested in trying to pick apart why the song had such an impact on me, and I really hoped that others would have experienced that impact for similar reasons!
@@nichooper7 it absolutely has. The way you describe what we “want” to see was exactly how I reacted. Thank you again.
This video lived up to its title.
I too, for the first time ever, fell down the youtube reaction rabbithole because of this song.
You gave voice to exactly what i was doing... what i was looking for. Thank you. :-)
I feel like i can stop falling now.
Thanks so much for taking the time to comment - I was hoping that the things I found special about the song were the things that other people were looking for as well! Good luck in stopping falling though : )
I am glad I ignored your command when Hi Ren was the only video on your channel, "Do not subscribe, like, or click notifications. This is the only video I will ever post." But I really liked your reaction and I did all those things, just in case. Your reactions to Ren's work/art are the most insightful and thought out. It seems Ren and Chinchilla's 'Chalk Outline" would fit very well in your wheel house also. Thank you.
Thanks so much Bruce, I really appreciate your positivity and encouragement! Chalk outlines is on the list!
Hi Ren was the first of his songs I heard / saw and have been completely hooked by the talent and authenticity of the man
Snap! Exactly my experience! Thanks for taking the time to comment Elizabeth! Nic
I think we all reacted to seeing Hi Ren like that. I kept finding more reactors and before I knew it I was five hours in.
I come to UA-cam frequently for "how to" videos, but this is definitely my first "how to react to Hi Ren" 😂😂😂
Love it by the way.
Lol! It was born out frustration! Sometimes, I'd be waiting for a reactor to spot the genius but it wouldn't come. Then I'd have to find another reactor to help scratch the itch.
If they all follow this format from now on then it will save me time and frustration ; )
@@nichooper7 I've said it elsewhere several times, there will be millions of reactions to 'Hi Ren' and as far as I'm concerned, they are all valid.
Watch the original, and play it without watching the video, it still works for me.
@@chrisbodum3621 Hey Chris, yea my video wasn't meant to send the message that anyone else was doing it wrong. Instead it was more about highlighting the things I love to see people react to! Thanks loads for the comment! Nic
Hi Nic, for me the reaction rabbit hole is all about taking pleasure in the joy of other people. Things that make me happy I like to watch and when that happiness is shared with other folk the feeling of warmth, kinship, empathy.......however you want to explain it, gives me a feeling of belonging and not being alone. You could say its selfish but in a healthy way! Lol. I just watched an interview between Ren and Justin Hawkins. Justin is the lead singer of the band called The Darkness who had a massive hit with 'I Believe In A Thing Called Love'. In the interview he explains all the struggles he went through to finally get the correct diagnosis. All the doctors, therapists, specialists of all kinds. Then he tried natural medicine, faith healers, a shaman......etc......Eventually at some point he became so broken down with relentless pain that he came to the conclusion that there was demonic activity in his life which he attempted to overcome by reacting to it in unexpected ways.....I'll post a link to it here. I found it fascinating but I expect you will find it enlightening and understand where he is coming from. Here's the link, good luck with the channel. Subscribed.
ua-cam.com/video/ET9bZ5sg52M/v-deo.html
I get your reasoning Jack, and think it is lovely. It's about connecting with people and I cant think of a better reason to be living in plant earth than that. I haven't watching that interview yet but will when I get the time as I'm sure there is lots of wisdom in it. Thanks loads for taking the time to comment again! Nic
1) what's with the bum notes? 2) yodelling, is this it? 3) why so aggressive? 4) mmm I can tell what he's sayin 5) engaged with the lyrics
6) now starting to be really impressed with the words 7) he said twat, who's plan B? 8) setting up a dark mood, harsh sound
9) calm Ren telling me a story "loosen the noose on the rope" , standing up at "hope" "stand on my own two feet" bit obvious but did make me smile
10) " learnt to soften and the dance got easier" wow that hit me hard it all became very personal then.
can't remember when it became obvious he was describing his inner dialogue
I could only appreciate his musical talents at later viewings
Not a song I would listen to on the radio, I don't even consider it a song, it's an experience we have
thanks Dr Nic
Ah nice - it's cool to see the things that you're on the lookout for Seth! Learning to soften was the point at which I decided I needed to make a video, because that sentiment aligns so well with my psychological perspective. It is truly an experience this song! Thanks loads for the comment! Nic
I enjoy watching reactions to Hi Ren and for me it is nice to witness like minded people. I live alone so I get a sense of community which is fundamentally the basis of the human animal. Sadly community is being slowly stripped away from us and in turn isolates us so we can be controlled. I am 54 yrs old and that's my humble opinion... good luck with your channel and thanks for posting.
Deffo the ultimate reaction!! And yeah i watch pretty much at the same points as you to see how reactors react or spot things
That's brilliant Malcom! There's something validating about knowing that others are looking for reactions to the same moments! Thanks loads for the comment, Nic.
So I only discovered this kid like a week ago but I cannot get enough of
I love how you say that you watched the reactions because you wanted to see others see and appreciate in this what you do
I find myself doing the same
For me I think I’m drawn because of the physical and mental pain he conveys
I so appreciate how authentic that is!
Definitely makes one think 💭
I wonder if he knows how truly masterful this is
Bullseye. And to think there is so much more to decipher and digest on top of your reaction points. This piece of art has taught me how to cooperate with my own mental illness instead of fighting it like I have for so many years. I feel indebted to this man, and I am certain many people feel the same.
Lovely stuff - the idea that you've been taught about acceptance from a song, when acceptance is something that psychologists spend years trying to train in someone! And you are right, there is so much more, which speaks to the genius of the song! Thanks for the comment Jason! Nic
Most reactions are similar in the shock at the beginning, he takes you out your comfort zone, takes you on a journey of wtf and places you back down to find yourself nodding with encouragement at the end....
Hey Jane, thanks for the comment! Yea I think you broadly have it there!
Those are precisely the reactions I look for too!
Im so happy you said this. It felt important to me to try to figure out what informed my obsessive reaction to this song. I think I got the main parts in this video, but I was hoping that those were things that drew other people in as well Ally!
Ren is bringing the humanity back to music, we’ve all missed it
Spot on.
This has been great.
Thanks for sharing.
~ An American in Korea 🇰🇷
I wish I could give you multiple likes. An excellent analysis and my feelings are exactly like yours. Thank you
Ah brilliant Richard! Im so glad that the things Im looking for are the things you're looking for too! I was hoping people would watch this and think 'yea I think that those are some of the things Im looking for too!'
Pretty well spot on for me! For a second reaction, it felt like a first reaction with new features you brought out with what youve said! Couple things i might add would be watching the reactors faces change at certain points throughout. When they first realise its real, the evil rise, when Ren first looks at the camera at night has its dawn, when he stands his own 2 feet, when he starts singing his heart out, when he talks about the pendulum swaying and the brighter it is the darker the shadow it casts, and when he finishes the dialog at the end. Seeing all these emotions throughout is something i look for also.
Thanm you again for your great reaction and knowledgeable words 🤌👌👏❤️🔥
Thanks so much for the positivity - I really tried to capture what jumped out at me. The fact that all of those details jump out at your just shows how incredible the song is i.e. how much genius there is in it.
@Dr Nic Analyzes amen to that! Looking forward to your next reaction! Have a great week mate 🤌👌🤙🔥❤️
I love this. Thank you for your insight. I would have had to pick at least 15 'stop points' though.
Lol! Yea, I do feel that that number 10 was ambitious now that I look back. It's such a masterpiece. But I really had to think carefully about this question: when I watch a reactor, which bits left out really disappoint me? And then I tried to flow the answer to that into the video!
I had never seen a music reaction before this one...the eternal dance that makes us all human...the difference between the yodeling in the beginning (while in the wheelchair) compare to the swaying dancing craziness of the yodeling at the end...learning to relax is also visible when you have seen it multiple times....you stopped in the right places. Thanks!
Checkout REN’s Demo Tapes Vol 1 & 2. These were done during the pandemic. His genius is on full display. Not only did he write the lyrics/melody he also produced the material. He is a voice for these times regardless of your age or station in life he cuts to the core of our humanity. What really strikes the listener may be quite different from one person to another but there is a message there for everyone. I love both your reactions to Hi Ren and would like to see more reactions to his music. Btw Wales should be damn proud of REN. I think before to long he will be considered amongst the greatest talents to come out of the UK.
Thanks Vicki and I totally agree - I'm glad to have seen the start of it.
One more line that doesn't seem to get any notice but I feel is so important or key to Ren describing his personal journey is, "My music....gives me a purpose I can rest in."
Yes I love that line! It brings me a sort of peace when I hear it! Although the funny thing about that is that when he is making his music his inner voice will be the loudest it can be!
For me a "reaction" is not just about words and the reactors who constantly pause lose sight of the overall emotion, strength and effect of the song. In Ren's case this is compounded by the subject matter and his genius. I estimate that of the hundreds of reactions I've seen to Hi Ren at least half have been left speachless. That was my reaction and is a true reaction. None of us have ever seen anything like Hi Ren before and to expect first time reactors to adopt a "scientific" approach is a little unreasonable. Firstly most of us do not have an understanding of mental health treatment and secondly , on many occasions, the reactor has been left in profound shock having found somebody who has suffered as they have and has been able to articulate their pain.
Having said all that I'm loving your insights into Ren's art and it's place in the understanding of mental health issues.
Hey Michael, yea the video wasn't about saying that anyone else was doing it wrong. Instead it was more about the things I love to see people react to! As you say, there is no right way to react because the song is so profound! Thanks loads for the comment! Nic
My hands were up 3 seconds into Ren's video... I was certain you were going to mention the bloody pig butcher! 😂😂😂 Okay let me get back to it 😂
Hey LouAnn! So....the pig butcher....the 1st time I saw it, I just thought it was a gimmick in a music video. I didn't know of its meaning until much later on!
Enjoyed this thoroughly, lots of same spots for me. I love how you explained to me WHY I've been almost obsessed(feels that way at times) with watching reactions to this. Makes complete sense. Thank you.
Thanks for sending over the positivity and encouragement and Im so glad the spots I stop at align with what you're looking for too! Brings us together you know! Nic
@@nichooper7 cheers brother.
Hi Nic, You nailed it. I felt the same except I was fascinated with the production earlier than you. Your input is appreciated. 👍
Ah Im so happy you said that Richard. When I first heard the song, the mental health message was important (hence why I made the other video) but that alone is not what drew me to the song. I really wanted dive into that in this video and see if the things that made me love it, were the things that other people loved about it too!
Even have the prof's on board. Glad we are all not crazy.
Everyone is crazy, which means, of course, that no-one is crazy. We're all just human! Thanks for the comment here! Nic
This video pretty much sums up how I feel about Ren and reaction videos to his music
Brilliant! I was really hoping that what jumped out to me is what jumped out to other people too!
Thank you for this wonderful analysis! I wholeheartedly agree with the things you pointed out. Even without much knowledge about mental health or about music, those are the moments people should be stunned or at least intrigued by what is going on. A dutch DJ called it the Anthem of this generation, but I think it is an Anthem for the 21st century. (Well early 21st, no idea what is to come 😂)
Your Welsh boy is doing amazing! I am proud of him being European 😂
Here we are again. Happy as a can be. All Rens followers are jolly good company!
Takes one, to know one. As my Grandma used to say.
Hey Dr Nic, I love how you endeavoured to work out why yourself and others have been so captivated by Hi Ren. I really get why you thought you needed to do a follow up on your homeboy👍 Great job! Is there something in the water in Wales? MissMeKate summed up perfectly also.
Whats really struck me, is the volume of people of all ages & backgrounds, who haven't commented on any channel before or watched reactions. And just felt the need to act. Its very heartwarming and uplifting. People who normally wouldn't have, are stepping outside of themselves .. . connecting, working things out. His personal journey in that spellbinding performance, has simultaneously chimed with so many, whilst at the same time is almost a battle cry that , we can & should nurture the ability to process, learn & rise above it. When you think your at your wits end , there is hope, right? Whats the alternative? Be good to yourself and others. Dark thoughts and happenings have a purpose, but don't let them destroy you.
Also heartwarming, is how Hi Ren with its deeply emotive , ultimately motivational, anthem has touched so many people in varying ways, with varying takes .... but also pushed our common threads.
The last line of the song pretty much says it all.
Spun a wise web of wonder has Ren, torch song for sure. Wish him well. He seems like a bambi stuck in headlights, going ... what have I unleashed here? But I'm sure he will crack on and do more wonders.
Cheers Dr Nic.
Excellent sentiments in your message Suzanne that chime perfectly with me. I would have said that Hi Ren would be hard to match, and it is, and yet some of his other music is also incredible in depth and artistry. I think he's a special lad this one.
@@nichooper7 I agree its already a classic. The range of reactions, emotions & thoughts, the listener can go through from start to finish is outstanding. A rollercoaster of surprises.... drama, the self -defeating mind banter, the beautiful guitar playing, singing etc, etc. They way it stays with you afterwards is also very special. For me the singing part is just perfect.It feels like a release from chains or a cage. I acts as a kind of pushing away of the pain like he has reached a crossroad and he's determined to push on, after all the disappointment and challenges. Reminded of what great blues artists do, it was all about survival and fighting back.
I find myself sort of mirroring him as I follow the performance too. I can't help it.
I think I'm probably not alone?
One lady who commented here, made a very good point too. How he has seemed to provoke openly emotional , tearful responses from men who probably hold it all in , and in society, its a mindset can lead to self destructive, spiteful and lethal behaviour. Some truth in that , we are all human. I know women who rarely cry. I just find crying fascinating, I don't think there are enough Ytube channels analysing it I think its just he's touched a nerve with all people regardless of gender, backgrounds etc and who want a fair deal and a voice.
People getting giddy, not even from a live performance. I would love to see him do that. It would be a historic. I can see the money people salivating.
I just hope he remains as independent as he can, if he doesn't. Do something good for himself and others. I'm sure he will keep it real. He has built a following that has invested so much in him. So he has a lot to deal with there?
Best wishes Dr Nic.
@@SuzanneO707 Lots of wisdom there Suzanne, thank you for sending it over. I've no doubt he will keep it real.
@@nichooper7 Cheers Dr Nic, thanks for that. And thanks for your insight too. You may or may not know. Ren iinterviewed today by a wised up, euridite rap dude over the pond. Knox Hill. One of the few that got a lot of his references , messages and musical ability from the beginning. Not putting people down that didn't, he's a great supporter and advocate.
And using his platform well. Also clearly taken aback with Rens talent and creativity.
Whats lovely is this genuine appreciation from his listeners and how they relate to his output, intelligence and self belief .The dialogue that has sprung up between people across the board. Very special indeed. Also how they wish to protect him and his wellbeing. He really has enchanted people from all corners, genuinely touched their wounded hearts and weary minds but also brought quirky fun along the way. Yet he is ultimately positive and makes you laugh too. Boy, thats so admirable, and really hard to do. Its been done in the musical past for sure , but he's carrying the torch and running with it. No pomposity or preaching just a very wise, engaging take on things.
Yippee, at last.
@@SuzanneO707 Lovely stuff Suzanne, I'll have to give that interview a watch!
Me again (feel like I'm becoming a stalker!). Brilliant Nic. Firstly, I guess I'm not the only one to have spotted your personal development in terms of video skills since the first reaction you did, sitting on the lounge floor in front of your TV..... just look at you now! Mr Professional. Very impressed by many of the insights. I wasn't a great reaction watcher pre Ren, but I overdose now, and some of the ones I've started were never finished as it was clear they hadn't appreciated the nuance in this masterpiece. (I should point out that many reactors amazed me, spotting things I'd missed). Agree with you about the reasons we watch them. Partly it's to do with self validation. Do other people recognise what I've seen and love it as much? You're so right that the genius lies in ALL the component parts together, each playing its part in the overall experience. SO, a couple of things to add to that analysis. For this piece Ren has tuned the guitar down to drop D tuning. He needs that lower note on the low E string to add gravitas. He starts off in D minor (watch 'This is Spinal Tap', there's a reference in there to it being 'the saddest of all keys'). You think he's yodelling. I'm not so sure that's a yodel. In a yodel the throat is doing something rather different. This is more of a falsetto head voice, more akin to those opera passages in Bohemian Rhapsody. And the final 'voice of hope' passage towards the end, which builds up towards the singing section. Have you noticed what he's doing to support that on the guitar? Play that bit again. He starts with single bass notes (not the same as the opening!), then as it builds, we get bass notes in pairs, then into triplets as the whole thing picks up and the dynamic increases. There's NOTHING here done by accident. It is truly amazing!
Ahhhh thanks so much for pointing out those things to me (for the most part I totally missed!) as they speak even more to the genius of the song. I cant believe he managed to write this song, let alone play it in one go!
Ps Yep, I now have a 15 pound microphone and know how to place a video on the video and so, relative to my technology skills, I'm smashing it : )
It’s so interesting to watch reactions, and I learn something new in almost all of them. But there are so many people that just don’t get it, or they don’t want to admit they get it? Some of the best ones, I subscribe to! So glad you have continued down the rabbit hole! ❤️
Thanks Rebecca, Im enjoying being here : )
Thank you for starting a Ren channel! What’s next? Tale of Jenny and Screech?
Hey Charleen, I did a couple of videos on Jenny and Screech, you'll have to let me know what you think! Nic
Hi Dr Nic, You've done it again. 👏👏👏👍👍
Thanks Roberto! Nic
Well congrats on a "unique" reaction, nice way to top off the 1k subs mark.
most reactions (stoppage time) to Hi Ren i've seen go along these lines... (feel free to guess where these happen during the song lol.)
Is that a bloke in a pig mask?
Wow he can play a guitar!
Are we being Rickrolled?
I have no clue whats happening but this sounds cool.
Wait hold on a minute, does this guy have schizophrenia or split personality, man it's cool though.
Whoah that hits hard jeese.
Oh I get it he's talking to himself.
He's right Eminem did do it, but so did loads of others and this is really unique.
Whoah that got dark real quick!
YES! (occasional happy tears)
Man that line was awesome!
Happy dance/vibe, head nodding, arm waving.
Silence.
Silence.
Silence. (occasional tears)
Wow that was amazing! What a message and how brave he is to be putting himself out there like this.
It's not until the monologue at the end where reactors realize that 9+ minutes have just flown by, and only now do they understand the whole reason for the song! That is my favourite part of the reaction where their minds awaken, to just how much of a work of art Hi Ren is.
I first heard Hi Ren when my manager (who knows how much I love alternative types of music) gave me his phone and told me to go have a smoke break and watch this song he'd found on You Tube, so I did, I watched it twice, and when I came back to work and started to apologise for being so long, he just said "it's all right mate I understand and I expected it".
I don't know if it's the "ultimate reaction" but it's a damn good one, congratulations again Dr Nic..
(caveat... another commentator posted a similar list on a reaction I saw a few months ago, so it's not my idea, but the words are my own, unfortunately I couldn't find that comment or I would have used it here with full credit to the original poster)
Hey Steve, yea by 'ultimate' I meant 'meta'. It's a reaction to reactors really. But the word 'Meta' would scare people away from clicking, and if I've learned anything over the past 6 weeks, it's that my titles and thumbnails aren't good enough to get people to click! I like your breakdown, it mirrors my experience, and I also had a similar experience when I came across the song - it's the most special music experience Ive had. Thanks for taking the time comment! Nic
We want that mirror feeling reflected back to us.
Yes I agree Cheryl!
The lyric that does it for me is "I will rise from the east
And I'll settle on the ocean floor"
There's hope there that someone can get through one day at a time. The sun rises in the morning - once the long night has passed - and sets.
From dusk till dawn. One day at a time.
Ooooh that's a lovely catch and one I haven't heard before. Great analysis, thank you! Nic
I love the confidence in his voice as he sings that line … you just know it’s his truth …. and there is so much power in it that I have cried, just from that line , more times than I even know
I just discovered your channel and am really liking your videos! Using music and movies to explain how to apply/approach different aspects of psychology and therapy has helped to clarify some of the more complicated and/or abstract concepts for me. I hope you keep making these kinds of videos! Thanks!
Hey Alyson, thanks so much for the encouragement, it really does make a difference in motivating me to do more of this sort of thing i.e. if people find stuff useful then that stuff is worth doing. Otherwise, I'll sit in my garden and read instead! Thanks again for taking the time to comment! Nic
You are soooo deep into the rabbit hole. 😮😂
Yuuuuuuppppp!
Likewise !
@@nichooper7 waiting for you to branch out into that Jelly roll hole. 😂
Sadly... the 'reaction' videos are currently the only reviews of Hi Ren.
As a musician I long for an truly educated breakdown of Rens music. Yours and the literary professor are about the only 'reactions' I find creditable.
One day I assume more musicians or artists will review and provide feedback.
Hey Max, that means a lot to me. Those reactions, where experts break down the cinematography, the acting, the singing etc, are my favourite ones too!
I am convinced he is Taliesin.
Greatest poet? Check.
Greatest singer? Check.
Welsh? Check.
Magical shapeshifter? Check.
By a process of logical elimination he must be Taliesin.
Ren Ben Beirdd.
Interesting. As an (uneducated) American, I had to look up Taliesin. Thanks for this. Now after I get done chasing Ren reactions, I know what to read up on.
I concur with your process of elimination Jim : ) Bard of the Britons! I reckon Ren comfortably can hold that title.
@@Thomas.Saunders I first came across Taliesin in a book about a famous American, Frank Lloyd Wright, then Googled him as one does - so what goes around comes around.
There's a British psychic who does readings about what's going on in the world right now with all the upheaval- c o v I d, war and everything in between BUT she managed to speak a small piece about a young person who was going to resonate with so many people in a positive way. That was before I first saw "Hi Ren". I believe she was talking about him.
Thank you for your wonderful reaction!
The psychic has a YT channel. PsychicLJ (I think).
How interesting Mark! I sure do hope that it was Ren that was in her mind! I'll check that lady out. Thanks for sending over the encouragement too! Nic
No offence mate....but...oh hang on.....urrrrgh.... Just channelling Jim royale....."Psychic, my arse!"
I never listen to music on YT, so I find it odd the algorithm even put "Hi Ren" in front of me in January 2023. I had also never watched a single reaction video in my life, but now I've seen hundreds. There isn't a day which goes by now the algorithm doesn't put a new Ren reaction video in front of me now, and I struggle not to click them. Lost that struggle today, but I'm happy for it.
The only sense I can make of it is I want to see if people catch the things I caught, and if they don't get choked up at "Hi Ren," I assume it's not a genuine reaction... or they have no soul.
Your experience matches mine! The YT algorithm now gives me lots of Ren but I'm good with it! Im noticing that there is a formula to reaction videos and that frustrates me because the formula removes authenticity, but to be fair, there are many true and real reactions where people's minds and hearts are blown, and I love to see it! Thanks loads for the comment! Nic
I loved your reaction too!😊
Thanks Kathy!
❤ and Thank You.
: )
Brilliant video I admire your persepctive on not only Ren's talient but also the analysis of why we as humans gravitate to his content as well as the examinations of others reacting to said content. I beleive you have a strong thesis to the adoration discipline of our species. However, if I may lend myself in as an outlier or perhaps even as an addendum I would present an argument one as civil as I possible can be. That while I used to watch reaction videos of ren with that excitement as to the various points I was seeing if others would notice I ended up feeling bored by the same behavioural signatures others would exhibit during the same points and thus would lose interest in that reaction as I felt I saw it all before with just a different face. Then it stopped being about watching reactions and instead about searching for reactors whom have a varied expierence to not only the music but present a persepctive or behaviour that I had never considered within my own limited existence. This nuance of human perspective and the spectrum it facilitates draws me in and the sustainability to search is fueled by the enzyme of Ren's genius that I will never expire interest of even having heard his entire solo catalogue, his busking catalogue, as well as his trick the fox catalogue I will listen to ren till the day I die and never get tired. Yet the excitement for me is discovering not a validation of what I see but uncovering what I was blind to despite all the times I expierence it. I doubt I'm an outlier but I understand that most people want familiar validation to what they have expierenced for me it's wanting someone to uncover for my mind a new bit of nuance that my limited life never could have considered and I can grow my understanding and deepen that appreciation to ren and his genius. To that end discovering your channel I have learned so much but never enough about my mind. Thank you for taking the time to make this and for giving me an excuse to really break down my own personal reason as to why I watch reactions to ren it was fascinating to realise this aspect of myself that I crave an expansion of understanding on things that interest me for various reasons.
Ah excellent analysis! I think that a similar transition happened for me i.e. I started looking for the some things, and then I was looking for variability or novelty in a perspective! That's a lovely thing to know about oneself, that you like an expansion of understanding. I think I endeavour for the same thing. Thanks loads for the comment! Nic
I agree on the song and Ren's genius. Really amazing, great performance. (Please also have a look on his other productions... Brilliant, everything, that...!)
But i would like to disagree on 'why one may like to watch reactions on his /songs/'... I'm interested in how others react, without any expectations and don't judge on them in any way. Just interested and i really hope most others would agree to my perception of Ren's work. It's just interesting to me what they may notice or not and where they may miss out or not. Just watching for fun really. ;)
Though... You caught a like for this vid. :)
Regards.
Yea, I think the click bait title probably gave people the wrong reason. I dont 'judge' reactors for not being enthusiastic enough or for not picking up on stuff, because the song is mind blowing and it's hard to be coherent when one's mind is blown! Instead when reactor aren't enthusiastic enough or dont pick up on the things I look for, I feel disappointed, from a purely selfish perspective! Thanks for taking the time to comment! Nic
I wish I could give you ten thumbs up. You look for the EXACT things I do!😂 And I’ve probably seen 300 reactions or more now… I have the same kind of expectations for a few other Ren songs aswell.
This makes me so happy! I was really trying to break down what made the song have such an impact on me, and I hoped the things I felt were important were the things that grabbed other people too! Thanks for the comment Jonas! Nic
the only thing ive noticed that ive not yet seen anyone say is the last part before the spoken word shows that ren has come to terms with his inner demons. the yodeling and guitar playing is stronger and more dynamic then then beginning part. its like im better if i can dance with my inner critic. maybe you mentioned it in your other video i dont know.
I don't think I did say that actually. But I totally agree with you - that is that last guitar and yodelling bit seems to me to illustrate acceptance of his inner voice. Thanks so much for taking the time to comment. Nic
welcome to the club!
It's a nice club to be in!
Why do you keep watching these? Easy... it makes me feel less alone, to watch someone enjoy this as much as I do, for those brief few moments.
Edit - come to think of it, I think that's part of what draws people to Ren, the shared experience of something that speaks to each person directly in their own specific way. There's a reason I started my little 'welcome to...' with 'A home for the lost and broken', little did I know when I started that it'd be so true, it just felt right at the time.
I do agree that this music seems to bring people together because of shared experience. It's a wonderful thing really isn't it! Thanks loads for the comment! Nic
Ive yet to hear a commentor talk about Ren admitting sweeping ambition and acknowledging his genius, aka his "god complex". I thought that was a brave and vulnerable admission. I think it makes people uncomfortable and perhaps conflicts with the image they have of Ren. I think it's another thing that makes him human.
Yea great point, and great spot. Humility is so valued by humans that sometimes we beat ourselves up for wanting to achieve greatness. Thanks for your contribution here!
The only thing I saw, or rather heard, that no other person seems to have caught, with the single exception of Elizabeth at "The Charismatic Voice", is the dissonant notes... the "sour" notes that "do not belong"... in the intro before any vocalization... You have a beautiful classical guitar movement... that falls into chaos... then recovers... this is the first manifestation of shadow-Ren... the introduction to the interference.
It does not surprise me that she caught it, Elizabeth is a world class opera singer with several advanced degrees in music, but rather how quickly she she heard it... right there, right then... and then how hard it struck when she realized the implications...
The other thing I've found interesting is how many are, quite literally, stunned into silence by this video... they simply lose the ability to communicate... or they just completely fall apart... I'm good with those people... it is the few who are seemingly un-phased which concern me...
Im fine with unphased. Just means they dont get it. Im more troubled by feigned reactions in the pursuit of views. The more that I see reaction videos the more I see a formula for how to rope people in, and it makes me a little uneasy. The bum notes I didn't see at all, but I think it makes sense that someone with training in music did spot it, and it speaks to how experts from multiple genres take their bit from the song, but one person managed to put together all of those bits. Mad really how talented he is.
@@nichooper7 I'm going bottom up... Ren is a fricken genre blending genius. Just in Hi Ren he incorporated classical guitar, rap, hip pop, yodel, speech, true singing and monologue... and while I would not wish his experience on anyone, I am so glad the music industry meat grinder did not get their grubby mitts on him... he would have become just another "just another..." turning out formulaic crap...
The bum notes bothered me because they didn't "fit"... things that are where they do not belong capture my attention... now that you know they are there, and serve a purpose, the next time you watch it, in one format or another, they'll smack you in the forehead...
The fakers are obvious, goes with the territory, I just make a mental note to ignore them in the future and move on, kind of like "reality" TV and WWF... CNN... same in life. If things don't fit, you must quit... oh, wait... that was the OJ trial...
What bothers me about the un-phased is, are they CAPABLE of getting it... like the two people who really unnerved me in 50 years... looked into their eyes and I saw NOTHING... just a blank stare... nothing overtly threatening... there was just nothing there...
Just for entertainment, I'd recommend The Big Push (Ren and company) "War Pigs" Ozzy cover... you get a good feel for his vocals there...
@@garrettmasarik8012 Totally agree with everything you've just said Garrett. Just watched that big push video and it captivating as usual!
Rosalie reacts and Bloodlines react. Both superb. Rosalie has an emotional reaction and a physiological one. Bloodlines have a sea change that's funny and admirable.
I'll definitely check those out! Thanks for the recommendation! Nic
The last thing a song like this needs, or any song for that matter, is to be analyzed to death, like a live frog being vivisected on a high school biology lab bench, its guts laid here and there in pieces until it is unrecognizable as the coherent whole that it was, before the systematic carnage of analysis began. RIP Hi Ren, we have thrown you twitching on the corpse pile, done with the ugly task of eviscerating you to our own satisfaction.
Ren reps Wales very well
I would love to be inside Ren's brain, that sometimes scares me but mostly excites and thrills me. Being a 74 year old woman, there isn't much left that I can still find to excite me anymore. Everything Ren does is either fun, sad, outrageous, crazy, deep with meaning, or educational. Ren is an enigma, although not a true enigma according to a "dictionary", since he tells us more about himself and his life than a true enigmatic person would, he isn't mysterious he doesn't hide anything. But he surprises most of us with his diversity. His singing, musical talent with many instruments, acting, narrating and performing is just so captivating, it must be an innate talent! He surprises most of us with the skills he has that can draw you in. And he does DRAW you in, makes you LOOK makes you THINK makes you want to KNOW more. Is Ren a chameleon? A good definition (I googled of course) "The chameleon effect is not a strategic facsimile of a person's gestures and facial expressions. It's more natural. It's a tendency we all may adopt to imitate someone else's voice and physical gestures so as to create a bond of intimacy and friendship. This can be done either consciously or subconsciously". Yes I personally think Ren is a natural chameleon, and he uses that "innate talent" and is very creative with it.
A natural chameleon! I like it! Thank for offering your thought here Ada, I loved reading your analysis of this ren experience, and I think most people would agree with it! Very best wishes, Nic
thank you
I hope you see this, Dr. Nic, because I have a question for you. Now, I'm assuming that the band Nirvana, and their front man Kurt Cobain were as popular in the UK as they were here in the US. Now I've been a big music fan since the 1960s, and I haven't seen people as captivated by an artist since Kurt Cobain of Nirvana, (and then that went to a whole other level when Kurt passed away.) I find it fascinating that both Cobain and Ren are perceived as being "vulnerable" and I wanted to ask you whether you think that's part of the reason why so many people find them captivating.
Hey Thomas, I dont have a load of history with Kurt Cobain and so cant really speak to his character, however, I think you've hit on something, which is that when people are real, authentic, human, vulnerable, we warm towards them. I think part of Rens appeal is how he holds himself as a human being.
Welcome to the club...I am in from December...LoL
It's a club I am happy to be in! Lovely people in this club I've found.
Great review , I will leave at that. 👍😊😊😊👋👋😊
Thank you Steve for sending over the positivity!