Classical Composer Reaction & Analysis to Hi Ren (Ren) | The Daily Doug (Episode 548)
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- Опубліковано 15 бер 2023
- #ren #hiren
In this edition of #thedailydoug, I'm listening and watching the provocative new song and video Hi Ren by Ren. This is one of those times when you know you have just experienced something completely fresh and immediately powerful. Ren's bold performance is touching and profound...and I have thoughts on it. I hope you'll join me for this powerful experience. We're dealing with the difficult topic of mental health. Viewer Discretion is advised.
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My new favorite genre on UA-cam is "people reacting to Ren". 😅
Oh Yes 😂 +1
Right there with you lol
Oh my, I love these reactions :)
Me too 🤣🤣
👍
I try to guess at which point it's going to smack them around the face.
This piece changed me. First heard it 2 months ago. I've watched it probably 60 times since, and I still cry. Ren was misdiagnosed for years, he was told his pain and suffering was all in his head and was treated for mental illness with anti-psychotics, etc. It was many years before he was correctly diagnosed with Lyme Disease. Ren is a generational talent IMO, and I'm 73. Dive into his catalog, he's a musical giant.
I totally agree with you. I'm so glad I happened upon Ren a.coupla months ago. He hits all the right places.
I have found myself listening virtually constantly to Ren when i'm online...... cant stop !!
I too came across Ren a few months back and I've been hooked ever since. I'm 61 and his music speaks to me, that's the only way I can describe it. He is amazing.
I am the same. His music is extraordinary. A generational talent indeed.
60 times?!? Them’s rookie numbers!!
J/k… we are all down the Ren rabbit hole
"A song like this shines like a beacon amid the bullshit." Well put, Doug, well put.
Ren is a fucking genius.
As someone who had Lyme disease 25 years ago and now over the last five years live in constant pain, diagnosed as Fibromyalgia, with my medical journey introducing doubts in my mind constantly, this song and Ren's journey speaks more to me than any so called medical professional has ever done. This song and performance is visceral to the max.
0⁰⁰
I understand. Did you know he was finally diagnosed with Lyme Disease??
Hope you are feeling better. 💜🙏💜
I live with neuropathy. So few people understand what living with constant pain is like. They don’t understand how it builds up and sometimes is just overwhelming. They try to relate it to something they felt like a injury where they had pain for a week. They don’t understand that it also effects your mental health. Even most doctors don’t understand it at all.
Im a 63 year old who loves grunge- todays blues. I love rock. Ren is NOT my genre. But when i discovered Hi Ren... i felt foolish. I took the high road. THIS is talent. THIS is putting oneself out there, using his art and talent to tell lifes story. This is incedible. Ive watched as many reaction videos as i can find of this performance. I pray that REN finally gets his place on top, his award for using his talent and gift and sharing this with us. I cannot get enough of this message. Thank you Ren. We ALL needed this today.
And I cannot get enough of hearing people, like yourself, opening up your heart and learning new ways to understand the joy that is life.
Well said, i feel that
One thing worth mentioning is that this was a live version and not pre recorded and lip synced which makes it even more mind blowingly good.
Exactly!!!
It was also done in one take
@@4pillars454 I don't know if it was. The video has cuts and the song itself certainly has spots in it that would be easy to swap in and out different takes. I do believe that it is all recorded live though. The ambience of the reverb is consistent, but the levels definitely change at different points.
@@sleepingstate1978 oh ok…I don’t know much about editing and just heard it was recorded in one take. Either way it’s a masterpiece :)
@@sleepingstate1978 maybe little post production of live footage
This is not just music, it is a complete work of art.
Yes, yes it is! It's a masterpiece of performance art!
If I dare say, it’s a whole new benchmark. When you look at music legends you often look to the past, we‘ve just experienced the now. And if it’s just us, we can say we’ve been there. I suspect the controllers of the industry won’t want him to be heard en masse because he eloquently can break down the spell people have been under for so long. Amazing talent.
It really is. I can’t get enough of it
Yes!
It is a masterpiece, an opera, a bleeding soul, a crying heart, it is soooooo fkin human, it makes me feel alive every single time I listen to it again. Thank you Ren
"It's the voice that you hear when you loosen the noose on the rope."
This line hit me so hard. I think there are so many people who will get comfort from this song. It validates anybody who has had any experience with tbese dark feelings and thoughts. What we say to ourselves matters. I'm still learning this atv45 years old...
It amazes me that relatively few reactors mention that line, or seem to be affected by either its punch/emotional power or its brilliance, so I'm always happy when a commenter mentions it, because it knocks me out every time I hear it.
@Alice-xy3fi yes. I've noticed that as well. Strange, isn't it? It's the best line of this piece, in my humble opinion. The first time I watched this, that was the moment I broke down and cried.
So sublime. It hits so hard.
I agree with the rest of you here- I never hear anyone mention that line, and it's so powerful. That line is the one that sticks out at me most and so few notice it.
At 71 I've discovered that other people are as impacted by Ren's words as I am, I don't have to repeat the rope reference for concern of lessening it's impact. It's undeniably visceral and practically severed my heart-brain channel. Have not heard anything about the performance being studied by UA-cam "residents" until just recently and I'm celebrating inside to find these reactions. Plus just now learning Ren has other songs for me to discover...frightening but exhilarating. You more familiar with this talented young man might suggest the path I take going forward.
Now listen to "The Tale of Jenny and Screech." Ren is a genius storyteller. Be sure to watch the full version, and not the three parts split up. You're in for a treat.
make sure it is Jenny and Screech (Full) with all 3 parts of the story.
This!
Yes another MASSIVE vote for this!
I’ll quintuple down on this. Tale of Jenny & Screech (full version
Just listen/watch this trilogy, hi Ren is deep and compelling but the "Tale of Jenny and Screech" is pure lyrical art. I've watched it many times and everytime I weep, no other artists has ever had this effect on me at 50 years plus. Ren is special on another level and I have the up most respect for him.
I love how when he reprises the opening falsetto bit at the end, having just declared that he, too, is immortal, and his voice is hope, and they are two sides of the same coin - he finally sings with abandon, seeming really free, but the lights are still flickering. he's not shoving the doubt or depression deep down, he's accepting it as part of who he is - and is choosing to be strong as a whole human being, not just try (futilely) to amputate that part of his psyche. and it works, and it's why we are listening to it and connecting with him too.
yep, thats what i absolutely love about this passage. he is embracing his whole being and life itself with its ups and downs - its the whole power of life flooding through him, black and white, crazy and sane...
Ren needs to be recognized for a Grammy, so much better than most of the crap out now. This is so refreshing. Share this with everyone. This speaks to me like nothing ive heard in a while. Ren deserves recognition.
Who cares about Grammy's anymore!!
Ren also conceptualized the video which was shot live (the mic is pinned to his gown) in one take by his very talented friend Samuel Perry- Falvey. One man and his guitar with two lamps produced such powerful imagery. I stilĺ get choked up when he rises to his feet though I've watched the video literally hundreds of times with different reactors. Thank you for taking the time to appreciate this masterpiece 🙏
I love that moment too .. ❤
Sam deserves a huge congratulations to being able to capture such an amazing feeling. (And Animal Flow was wild, too)
Chills every time.
I’ve listened to this who knows how many times, and I still started crying during this listen when he stood up. His lyrics are so deep and rich and thick; something new jumps out at me every time. 😭
For many of us the Ren rabbit hole starts here... and it goes deep and branches a ton. All of it is amazing!
He's extraordinarily talented! Blows me away
I was raised in state institutions from age 5 to 21 then at 21 you are on your own and at that time 1987 the state did not help you find your way.
After some terrible times my counselor at that time gave me a quote by Louisa May Alcott that I still have to this day. I am not afraid of storms
for I am learning how to sail my ship. This song reminds of this quote and really the daily struggles most everybody has to go through just to
survive the day.
The trilogy..... will rock your world.... prepare yourself. I’m just offering this because I may not know your story but Ren may be about to tell it or a version similar.. Jenny/ screech/ Violet -- Full and it’s also live, in 1 take 😳
Such a masterpiece. I’ve been playing g guitar for 30 years and I can’t make the instrument speak. When he portrays Satan the chaos and off key voicing is just awesome. And then genius lyrics on top of it. This man is a musical savant. Everyone can relate, yet this is so deep. I can’t stop listening to this song. As a classical composer I’m sure you agree with my slightly educated assessment! 😂 Bravo Ren, a broadway show, a poetry reading, a Sunday sermon, all in a single song. Just absolute genius.
Great reaction. Ren uses a lot of explicitly religious imagery in this song, but even a die hard atheist like me is deeply moved and can easily take it in and see the reflections in my own experiences.
This song hits me like a freight train every time I hear it! I'm a disabled person who has lived with an autoimmune illness called Systemic Scleroderma since I was 17yo along with a lot of other traumatic events in my life, the worst of which was losing my mom in January of 2018.
After losing my mom, I was forced to live with family who I never really got along with, it was an ab*sive environment and I was a broken man on the verge of deleting myself by the time I finally my own place.
I've dealt with depression and anxiety since my teens due to my illness and everything else I've been through, I've contemplated deleting myself on several occasions and thankfully I've never followed through with it.
Stories like mine are why "Hi Ren" is blowing up right now, this is one of the most impactful pieces of art I've ever heard in my entire life!
My heart goes out to you. I cried when I read your story and I am so sorry for everything you went through. Just know that you here for a purpose. I pray for you and hope that HOPE will always reign in your life. Much L💙ve all the way from South Africa 🇿🇦❤️🇿🇦
@@ReinetteSwart thank you for your kind words, I'm in a much better place now! Ren has really done something great here, this song cuts through the fakeness and has genuinely connected with his audience in a way I've never witnessed before. It's sparked conversations like this, where people share their real stories of struggle and illness. That's what art is supposed to be!
When I was a kid in middle school, mid-1970s, my parents sent me to a slew of psychologists to find out what the Hell was wrong with me. It wasn't till I was in my 30s that I was diagnosed with autism. Back then, they called it Asperger's, but that's gone out the window. Anymore, it's just called autism. I've spent years learning to come to terms with it, and now, I embrace it. Maybe if I had received proper diagnosis and counseling, I wouldn't be so f*cked-up today. I'm also an artist, a writer, a sculptor, and I can attest to the inner-demon mentality. Imposter syndrome. Am I any good? More importantly, is my art any good?
@@adamlaceky8127 man I'm sorry you went through that, I can sympathize because it took about 3 or 4 years bouncing from specialist to specialist in order for me to be correctly diagnosed (autoimmune illnesses are notoriously difficult to diagnose).
People like you and I didn't choose this life, this is the hand life dealt us and usually we find a way to adapt. I appreciate you sharing your story, I wish you luck brother! 🤝🤜🤛
(((BIG HUGS)))
A minor correction to your Ren bio...Ren was misdiagnosed with depression and psychosis for approx. 7 years until a Dr. finally correctly diagnosed Ren with Lyme Disease. The damage had already been done though and Ren has had to undergo Stem cell treatment which he himself credits with saving his life and the damage to his brain by years of the disease left unchecked had run rampant. To this day, Ren eats a specialized diet, takes many many medications and has to have daily treatment.
In spite of all this, Ren writes, produces, visualizes and choreographs all his music and videos, the world is witnessing an incredible artist, an artist who will be remembered.
One who must be remembered.
Lyme disease doesn't usually present with mental health issues and can't be treated with stem cell treatment, i'm very confused...
@@Need4Needle It's ok. I never said "Lyme's caused mental health issues", however if ignorant Dr's don't believe the numerous symptoms you present are real and prescribe anti-psychotics, well, then...there ya go. As for the Stem cell treatment, a simple google search will show that advanced treatment for the degenerative affects of prolonged "untreated" Lyme's disease can and is treated with stem cells in certain advanced cases.
@@Need4Needle A quick google search of 'lyme disease stem cell treatment' indicates that it is a treatment, though if caught early, antibiotics are also a treatment.
I have something very similar to Ren and went thru decades of misdiagnosis and being labeled everything in the book except the things that were actually wrong with me. I was extremely lucky ro have Grandparent's who refused to give up on me and fight tooth and nail for the truth.
Ren's music has been so cathartic to listen to. When I listen to his music I truly feel like someone understands the dark places I went thru and not in some prepackaged contrived/pandering way either.
Very few artist actually move me to tears and Ren music always does.
Once in a blue moon a true groundbreaking talent comes along, this is one of those talents. He is a complete artist in every sense of the word. Bravo Ren, a truly remarkable piece of music/art.
❤ I would go a step further and say he is the most talented musician in history but I'm four months in the future so maybe you now agree with this 👆
Thank you so much for this reaction. I’ve watched A LOT of these reactions to this song. At first I couldn’t pinpoint why I was so obsessed with watching others see this for the first time, and then I realized that I can’t experience this as new ever again, but I can experience it vicariously through others. I think I need to see if it hits others as hard as it hit me. I could see that it hit you that way. In you, I could see the awe that I felt the first time. It was a sense of camaraderie that this work of art seems to inspire in a lot of us because he put into words what so many of us feel. Those feelings that we think we are alone in, but, turns out we’re not.
Good description. I am doing the same thing over and over again. Is this already obsessive behaviour?
Beautifully articulated.
Sums it up perfectly.
Yes, I love seeing other people be touched.
this is precisely why i have been watching others see it for the first time. I love watching others fall in love with it. fall in love with this artist. I want others to cheer him along as I have been. to be invested in his success. I know he has been an artist for a long time, but there is something about witnessing an artist rise up, witnessing their creative crescendos. and if his already impressive body of intricate, winding and almost riddle like music is any indication, we have a long row to hoe with Ren.
It's not just a song. It's a piece of art.
Absolutely David ...this a song, it is a 'Play ' , a psychological odessy and total performance by this extraordinary young man.
It’s a masterpiece. I don’t need to say more. In the 39 years of being on this planet I’ve not had an artist take me on a journey in this type of way
Ren is exactly what 2023 needed ! Somehow he managed to disrupt my everyday thinking. I wake up and could swear I've heard his songs while I was fast asleep! Haven't heard of more a profound artist in a long long time! All I can wish is for Ren to get well . Ren's birthday is on the 29 March(1990) and Ren also promised a brand new song on his birthday ! Phenomenal is the most appropriate description he deserves !
His music is playing in my head at night too. He is making me look at my mental health in a way nobody else has, and at nearly 52 I've been living with it a long time. Astonishing.
Isn't it amazing , how we all sit in our rooms staring at a pc screen feeling overwhelmed by a song, and unbeknownst to each other share these overwhelming feelings? That is what Art - capital A- can do for us, how it can add to our human experience and tap into our intrinsic capacities to empathize. And Ren - oh boy, did he create a piece if Art!
I only recently discovered this song, and I've watched probably 50 reactions of it. Hi Ren is truly profound. The concept of those self destructive thoughts, the internal darkness, IS a story as old as time. At least as old as humanity. The third voice, Ren's voice of "Hope" gives me chills every time. This song has a message that I believe everyone needs to hear.
This is the greatest piece of art I’ve ever experienced.
have a look at Sick Boi by Ren which is like a companion piece to this in many ways, and also Ren's trilogy "The tales of Jenny andscreech (full)",
Me too! No artist has ever effected me like Ren. He's been with me since day one of hearing him
I'm so glad you've analysed this one. It's remarkable how very different people are reacting to this in much the same way. It crosses boundaries of age or generation, and preferred musical genre. Old and young, rappers and rockers alike, all seem to applaud its message. It's a masterpiece, really.
It is that. Bringing people together in empathy is rare in these times.
Black and white (and yellow... I did not see an Native Indian-reaction yet but I am sure it would be similar)
Fact is: Ren unites in times we need much more unity. We need more Rens, not cleavers ( hope it is the right word, I am no english native speaker)
Yeah, he found the right words to show us that us humans maybe look, talk, eat, fuck and pray all a little different, but just like we all bleed when we get cut, we all are trapped in our heads, the place where we are haunted and scared by our biggest fears, and we think we are soo different from everyone else when in fact we all share the same feelings, thoughts, delusions, hopes, flaws, kinks….we are one, just different spectrums of the same thing.
That's because he skillfully hits on themes as old as time.
Particularly the struggle between the dark and light in all human hearts. That's why he's able to incorporate religious iconography so effectively. It's not about religion itself. He effectively and eloquently demonstrates that the battle we all face within us is so timeless that it is described throughout our history and features in our oldest spiritual texts.
As an old Pink Floyd fan who's followed your channel the past couple of years... I am so glad you're reacting to this! Thank you! His is an uncommon talent!
He's like a 21st century roger waters
Are you from an Amish background or just a berry farming background, lol?
Floyd are the greatest band there's ever been ..but what an artist Ren is !
@deborahlester4018 The Swartzentruber Amish are named after my great great uncle... he was hyper conservative. His brother (my direct relative) was not so much. I'm not sure exactly where my lineage diverged from Amish... but I know my Grandfather drove a car but was still a conservative Mennonite...
@@unshyguy1 Sorry for being nosy. It's just an unusual name...I love the image of wagons so loaded with blackberries that they looked like storm clouds moving across the horizon...and the Swartzentrubers I have met are sweet people.
When I first heard this song a month or so ago, I wasn't prepared. It hit me with such power and force that I couldn't stop crying for something like 15 minutes. But even as I did, I knew that the tears were not about sadness but a deep soul-reaction to the powerful truths that Ren is expressing of this bewildering beauty we call the human experience. I'm so happy that this song is getting so much attention. That, in and of itself, gives me hope because it means that there is a hunger in the world for art and music and human expression that is genuine, meaningful and unflinchingly real. I've been sharing this with my hypnotherapy clients and it's been a great help to them as well. Thanks Doug for your equally genuine reaction and commentary. Peace.
Millions of people got a lesson in how to identify the dark wolf inside us while providing nourishment to the light wolf inside us. This song is a weaponized goodness.
@@devinfleenor3188 "weaponized goodness" -- you nailed it. What a fantastic description.
A work on genius, a work of art. Ren has so perfectly described a battle I have been having my whole life. It’s taken me more than 50 years to embrace both sides to guide me. Ren speaks for so many. This is music doing what music should do, connecting and spreading love and hope.
I love that he leaves the last guitar note hanging.
The expected conclusion keeps you waiting for the resolve so you’re still there when he starts to speak.
A work of art!! ❤
It's amazing to me how many people don't comment on it. It leaves you feeling so expectant, but it's just like eternal dance he's talking about. It's not meant to be resolved. It's brilliant.
Brilliant isn't it! even if we don't consciously know it, our brain that gets that sense that it's not over and we sit there waiting. So clever.
Man I dunno I really liked this song, but I want that resolution at the end..it leaves it incomplete...and I get it that was an artistic choice because the battle inside isn't entirely resolved but still....let it have closure.
@@Endtimescoming true but for me it beautifully articulates the mental health battle as one that never ends.. you can't rest because it's not over, it's never over. Really clever choice I feel.
I have been waiting and waiting and waiting for somebody to notice/mention this!!!! Haha. I felt a sense of actual relief seeing your comment.
I haven't come across Ren nor this song before. It's very creative and should be better known.
I assume the "Pig Butcher Doctor" is a reference to all the doctors who misdiagnosed and mistreated him over several years, even telling him that his symptoms were all in his head and giving him antipsychotics which only worsened his condition.
I agree!
By whatever path, Ren captured the magic of the flatted fifth, the devils interval, diminished chords, and strumming motifs. He blended the inner critic's almost wild rhythms with the hopeful creator's melody introduced at the start, and in the ending, showed us what such a blend can do joined under the control of Ren the artist . In this battle the artist won
thank you
He showed the world his true self and we all rejoiced....Ren is absolutely amazing
I first heard this song 2 weeks ago and I've listened to it more than 100 times. He's incredible! You have to check more of his songs. "The Tale of Jenny & Screech (Full version)" is amazing!!! ❤️
Ren’s catalog as a solo artist, with his band The Big Push or his collaborations with other artists, is very deep and extremely diverse. I think the next track of his that you should check out is “Chalk Outlines” (Live) with Chinchilla
4th attempt, single take, played & sung live... The Fairy Voice mother has a fantastic breakdown of his use of voice & how amazing that is... That & this reaction are a must for anyone who loves this piece of art.
You may already know this but just to clarify that though audio may have been recorded in a single take, the video is not a one-take video like some other Ren videos. Samuel Perry-Falvey who filmed Hi Ren, talks about it in the comments of Jonathan Hiller's (Filmmaker Reacts) reaction to the song.
The Fable Sphere has a really good reaction as well.
Kind sir…..thank you for your reaction! I’ve watched as many as I can find, and your genuineness out did them all. I’m your newest fin and subscriber. Can’t wait to watch more! And, thank god for ren
He has brought so many of us mental health sufferers together. And I. eternally grateful! Can’t wait to listen to this reaction again
Keep rocking it man and doing what you do! See ya tomorrow
This song has really had an impact on me and it's amazing to see soo many people connecting with it. I really hope you do "Jenny/Screech/Violet's Tale", I heard that song for the first time over a month ago and I was even more blown away. Ren is the most creative artist I've ever heard, he needs to be promoted EVERYWHERE!! He should have his own Broadway show!!!!🤘🤘🤙🤙
I second that,please do!
Ren is Art, Art is Ren
Hi Ren is a song I came across a few months ago, I was able to relate to this artist because I was suffering from a life long issue of suffering from childhood trauma and being molested, and several failed attempts at suicide when I was teenager, in young adulthood i suffered from drug abuse, several years later or should say up a little year ago, I realized that I had a problem that I can only solve on my own, now I'm majoring in psychology so that I can take my life lessons learned to help others, thank for this reaction video
First person I've heard to actually go through Ren's background before listening. Really appreciate your videos, Doug. Empathize with your own thoughts and experience sharing at the end. Great work and keep it up
Everything about this masterpiece is outstanding.
Even the lighting casting two shadows… mind blown!
This needs to be part of every high school curriculum.
Yes, it's very well done,isn't it.The shadows are different in intensity too, one darker than the other, just as he says .I also love the part after his second oooh oooh song, when Ren turns and puts down his guitar.The back of his neck seems poignant , to me, at least.It is a vulnerable position to be in, just as Ren just made himself vulnerable to us.
Thanks for watching this video. I appreciate you, my broth. May I suggest more Ren? The Tale of Jenny and Screech FULL version. And also his band The Big Push busking, I shot the sheriff/bridge to zion. It's amazing.
Plus Wade in the Water / Nina Simone / Trouble
The Big Push are fantastic and work so well together, all very talented guys.
When they get back together they are going to sell out many venues.
I up this comment!
I listened to Ren first time in january, and am, together with so many other people too, digging as deep as I can come into that rabbithole. I even put his picture as background on my Iphone, silly old me. I just love his music, his lyrics, his acting, and his appearence. I have never become a fan as fast as I have with Ren. Not even in my teenage-years where I was fan of The Sweet, Suzi Quatro and David Cassidy 🤣. This is the closest I come to be a teenager in love at the age of 61 😍🤣. Lene61/Denmark
Im 57..ive listened to most things in my time,this piece of art is utterly beautiful.
Ren wasn't initially diagnosed with Lyme Disease. For years they couldn't figure out what was making him ill & misdiagnosed him with these different mental illnesses. While being treated and medicated for mental illness, his Lyme Disease was getting worse. By the time he was properly diagnosed, he was spending 23 hours a day bed-ridden. He suffered from Psychosis. He's in Canada right now for more treatment. He has a Go-Fund-Me on his page.
What a great summation of Ren's and other's struggles, Doug. Well done. Now my favourite reaction video of all time. Your enthusiasm is infectious.
Why we shouldn't have mirrors
Psychotherapist and lifelong musician here. Hi Ren brought me to your channel but it was your honest, thoughtful discussion that earned the subscription. Fantastic work!
Ren s trilogy is an absolute must , an epic thing too see brilliant ! what a writer and performer
I've never heard this before. This is the first time I've been left speechless at the end of a song in a long time. Brilliant!
This song is so unbelievably powerful. It’s so personal yet still absolutely relatable in every single line. I’m diagnosed with BPD and while that is something very diffufrom what Ren went through, this describes my inner battle to the point. I love this song and I love that everyone agrees about this song.
He did this live in one take ….. just so crazy talented he is !
It's very courageous of him to bare his soul to the world...the reason his music has become so popular is because we can all relate.
Like other musical geniuses, Ren should absolutely be remembered 500 years from now
I think that end sequence with the controlled vocals and chaotic guitar was a great symbol of him embracing both sides and working in unison
Your're one of three reactions that made me cry (in a good manner) every time I hear this Song.
Thank you for your passionate Video.
Ren is an amazing phenomena right now. And an important one.
This, and other of his songs, cut so deep into the viscera, ANYONE'S viscera, so precisely that even a person who has not struggled with serious mental health issues can absolutely feel and understand one who has. Great music to tap one's foot to? Fine. Lyrics that make one think? Sure. But to make one feel? To make virtually ANYONE who watches this REALLY feel? And that feel is both ends of the pendulum swing at the same time. Hope and despair. And not merely, but the brightest hope and the darkest despair. And he brings that to us. He gives that to us. And if one commits to the whole video he brings it whether they want it or not. The viscera is penetrated deep before one even feels the cut.
This piece is breaking many people. In beautiful ways. I'm sooo glad to see all the reaction channels getting on this. So, thank you as well.
I note others are recommending the Jenny/Screech/Violet tale. Again, phenomenal pieces. But I think you MUST check out Ren X Chinchilla doing "Chalk Outlines". One gets to hear not only Ren in full beautiful singing voice, but in harmony with Chinchilla, who is a powerful singer as well, performed live, playing in some long hallway with the most beautiful natural reverb.
I've read it only took about four tries before they got a straight through performance for the "Hi Ren" video. So there is relatively little editing to this video.
"Chalk Outlines" is straight up one take live. Absolutely heart wrenching and beautiful.
"And my music's been kinda doing bits too
Like I actually might do something great
And when I'm gone maybe I'll be remembered
For doing something special with myself"
Well done Ren, well done.
Blessings.
So so true . If I want people to understand my own mental health battles I am going to play them this.
This is art. Extraordinary talent.
The dance is in relaxing into who we are. The integration of both. The good and the bad. It’s so transcendental. It’s absolutely a beacon. And so timely.
Doug, a couple of months ago you introduced me Ren with this reaction. I've spent the intervening time loving the journey through the rabbit hole! I've watched loads of these reactions, and some more of yours of Ren. This reaction of Hi Ren is, in my opinion, one of the best I've seen. You emotional response, your analysis and your words at the end are so inspiring. I found this after having take some time off work due to stress. I get what you say you felt over the last few years. I returned to work this week and I'm getting better, much as you say for yourself, but it is still hard! I love what you do on this channel, your love of music and these reactions have helped me immensely, thank you. I look forward to watching so many more.
Simply brilliant. A pure masterpiece.
Welcome to the 'Bard of Brighton' Ren is a phenomenal talent. Enjoy
How amazing that this song has United so many people around the world! So many of us needed this, something that put into words how we have felt for so long but couldn’t put into our own words. Thank you , Ren, and thanks to all the reactor’s who help to analyze and break down what this song is saying.
This piece of art is so stunningly, raw and beautiful. It really hits home. And I love your great reaction! Well done. Thank you!!
This performer, this performance is BRILLIANT! Such bravery, such eloquence on such a difficult, touchy subject. I can only applaud this young mans' bravery in tackling the subject head-on with such wonderful music. Bravo Ren, and thank you Doug for sharing it. There's no way I would have stumbled upon this without your introduction.
I highly recommend you check out Ren's track "Sick Boi", which I feel is like another part of this Hi Ren, and also "the tale of jenny and screech (full)" which is a trilogy, of the tales of Jenny, Screech, and Violet. Needs to be watched in that order, in full, in one go. Amazing, genuinely truly incredible
I never heard a song that represented the battle inside my mind... He's a genius and he speaks the truth about mental and physical health.
I had to look up the words to this song, it’s like poetry. At 67 and a huge music fan this one really hit me. Genius song!♥️🇨🇦
Thank you. Ren’s song, of course, but also every reaction feels like an act of kindness
I've been watching this every day for the past few weeks. Every time I do, I get choked up. It's that powerful, especially the spoken word at the end.
One thing I love about watching reactions to this song, especially from channels that are based on analysis and breaking down the music is that every single one of them ends up having a hard time taking even one moment to stop and talk or look away. Everyone gets so enthralled by this performance that the need to analyze it falls away almost immediately for the need to experience it.
so true...
Rarely have I heard so perceptive and heartfelt a reaction to this song. Thank you for opening up about your own experiences.
I watched about a dozen reaction videos, and this is the first one where I think the person "got it".
The song is about the human condition. His suffering as part of; an instance of; and the essence of the struggle of being human.
The song is iconic in the purest sense of the word. He is the paragon of the battle within that everyone must fight to do anything worthwhile.
All other forms of genius are a means to this end, and have (rightly) been tbe focus of the others I've seen react to this song.
I mean, if a singer reacts, they SHOULD talk about singing etc. And, I haven't seen a philosophers reaction yet. :)
I hope he finds health, healing and happiness. And if not, I wish for him the satisfation of knowing what he has created.
It's the best Opera I've ever experienced! He is so ridiculously well spoken and eloquent.
Wonderful statement of humanity, artistically stunningly performed, not overproduced, stands for itself and all those, who understand it. Masterpiece that speaks to me old man and makes me understand. 🤘🎶🖖👏
For me, this is probably your best episode. It really demonstrates the power of art. Ren is a complete genius, I've been loving his stuff for 6 months or so, he's amazing, he changes people
This was a very enjoyable reaction. I truly appreciated your analysis and your honesty in sharing some of your own story; God bless you. “Hi Ren" is the song that put Ren on everyone's radar since December; it went viral and has garnered more than 6 million views since its debut, but he has been creating great music for more than ten years. Ren’s music videos are generally recorded live, often in a single take, although not necessarily the first take, and from various camera angles. His release, "Sick Boi," is almost another chapter to "Hi Ren." Many of Ren’s songs resonate with people because he addresses struggles that many others face every day.
Ren plays multiple instruments (acoustic, electric, and bass guitar, piano, drums), has impressive vocals, is an excellent storyteller, and is quite the philosopher and poet. He is considered by many a modern bard; he calls his music “bardcore.” Ren’s earliest recordings on UA-cam are from his time in a band called “Trick The Fox,” consisting of Ren and his buddies Charlie and Tommy. Unfortunately, the band performed only briefly due to Ren’s onset of health issues. They are very talented. A fun clip to watch is “The Mash Up.”
Ren’s trilogy "The Tale of Jenny/Screech/Violet" has been likened to a Shakespearean tragedy and is a prime example of his genius; it is a master’s class in storytelling and also showcases his guitar skills. The three acts are haunting, and the conclusion will catch you off guard. The trilogy needs to be watched in the order given, as this is the flow of the storyline and is best watched as a whole rather than piecemeal.
Ren’s collaborations with Chinchilla (“Chalk Outlines,” “How to Be Me,” “Sexual Healing,” “One Dance/Drunk in Love”) are beautiful and showcase his singing voice. His live music videos are especially impressive. Ren's personal reflections are threaded through many of his songs; "Insomnia," "Depression," “Diazepam," “Penitence,” “Dear God,” “Heretic,” “Dominos,” his "Freckled Angels" album, just to name a few, all deserve a listen. His song "Money Game" (Part I & II) is another recommendation, although it is less of a personal song than it is an indictment of greed and the resulting injustices in this world.
Ren’s Hip Hop/Rap style songs are all worth checking out if you enjoy this genre; they are pretty amazing. Check out “The Hunger,” “Genesis,” “What You Want,” “Losing it (FISHER rap retake),” “Right here, right now (Fatboy Slim one shot retake),” "Life is Funny," “Love Music (Parts 1, 2, and 3),” “Crucify Your Culture,” “Power,” and his latest release, “Bittersweet symphony (The Verve retake).”
As I recently discovered, Ren also recorded a cover of “Can't Help Falling In Love (Elvis Cover),” that is simply beautiful. Then there are his performances with Sam Tompkins (“Blind Eyed,” “Earned it /Mans World / Falling,” “Walking on the moon/No Diggity”), Eden Nash (“Humble,” “Ocean”), Bibi (“Crutch,” “Ahiahiaoha”), Molly McKinna (“Penitence”), his former bandmate, Romain Axisa (“French Song”), which are all great.
"The Big Push" busking sessions, concerts, and live recordings all are awesome and well worth checking out. Their covers of "I Shot the Sheriff/Road to Zion/Hip Hop," "Wade in the Water/Nina Simone/Trouble so Hard," “War Pigs,” "My Generation," "An Englishman in New York," “Bongo Bong,” the songs "Oh My Woman," “Swan Song,” “Sweet Little Lady," "It's Alright," "Watch Out," “Dignity,” and so many others are equally impressive. The band performed their last official busking session and gave their last concert in September of last year due to the fact that Ren was leaving for Canada to undergo medical treatment for his multiple health issues, including surgeries.
In anticipation of his stay in Canada, Ren prepared some music ahead of time to be released over the next six months that he expects to be gone. He released “Sick Boi” and “Bittersweet Symphony (The Verve retake),” which is another masterful work. Ren has hinted that he might release his newest song on March 29, which is his birthday.
Wow, first time hearing Ren and about to go digging. Your info here is gonna help me greatly. Many thanks!
Seriously, you may need to think about getting help
@@trevorlangston4219 Lol. Bless your heart.
@@JensRandolff Lol. Let us know which therapist you get. There may be group therapy involved.
Grab your ketchup and crunch away my friends.
When you watch the tale of Jenny and Screech, make sure it’s the FULL version. You have to watch them in The order of Jenny, screech and then violets tale last.
There’s a 13 minute FULL version that has all three videos in order.
It will blow your mind, perhaps even more than Hi Ren. You will see his writing and performance skills at top levels. All done live just as Hi Ren was.
Enjoyed your reaction. Welcome to the RENissance !
Ren’s ability to tell a story is incredible, I love seeing people watch it for the first time
Loved the Vid man
Doug, I've watched at least 20 reactions to "Hi Ren" and yours has been the best, by far! You cover so many angles to this art piece, well done.
Wonderful reaction. I first came across Ren busking seven years ago in Brighton and have seen him live many times since then. It is so brilliant to see everyone else finally discovering him.
Apart from his eclectic talents, one of the great things about Ren is that his music is making other people examine and share their own mental health issues and fragilities. This can only be a good thing to help to eradicate the stigma which, sadly, still exists around mental illness.
I would love you to react to some of Ren’s singing videos. Chalk Outlines (live) is a hauntingly beautiful song which showcases his voice. Enjoy the journey!
You said it perfectly, he allows us to share our own struggles without shame.
This is why I love reaction videos, especially videos like this. They actually educate me about the song, the music, the lyrics, and the hidden elements the artist incorporates into their rhymes that I was previously too oblivious to notice on my own.
I loved this reaction piece. Thank you.
Your genuine emotions, amazement, knowledge, engagement, understanding, but mostly watching your pure joy emotion really, really, REALLY did make me smile. Thank you for your personal reaction.
I've watched far too many reactions to Ren to count. However, this one i was simply fully invested in just your face.
Im coming away from this reaction, feeling chuffed to ribbons 😊🎀 Thank you again. 🫶🏴🇬🇧🤜🤛
This and Michael Palisamo hit me
I find it important to note that Ren was *not* diagnosed with Lyme disease back when Sony dropped him. His was misdiagnosed with BPD and schizophrenia and was medicated for those issues. He was not properly diagnosed for almost eight years and has suffered damage to both his body and his brain due to taking drugs he didn't need and not getting proper care for the Lyme. He also suffers from PTSD due to entire situation.
So absolutely happy that you did this. Your analysis of music is incredible and your openness after the song was beautifully said.
Welcome to the Ren-aissance !!!
Beautiful reaction on REN’s artistry.
Jekyl and Hyde, check.
Imposter syndrome, check.
Rhetoric and musical ability, check.
Conclusion, REN’s brilliant.
I expected a lot from your reaction and you delivered.
P. S. “His guitar skills are excellent…if this is your first experience with Ren, ha, you have no idea…yet! 😊😅
It's important to keep in mind that he was initially misdiagnosed and long was treated in ways that was actually harmful to him.
Thanks, Doug. Almost no video stops. Mesmerizing.
Loved your genuine reaction and breakdown!
I've heard this 6-7 times watching different reactors. I cry or bare minimum weep. It's moving and painful. Honestly for the sheer magnitude of lyrics and how amazing they are. This should be nominated for a Grammy! Dream Theater finally got one for The Alien. And as impressive as they are and meaning of it. But they pale in comparison to the importance and courage it took with layers of talent and styles in 1 song.
Yes, I have been selfishly searching more first reactioners as well to Ren's one take masterpiece as a way of satisfying my addiction.
I really appreciated this reaction. Having lived in NC for a while, it's a joy to hear "Y'all" again :) Of course, like anyone here, I wish you to hear so many of Ren's songs (chalk outlines, insomnia, King of the Bongos, and above all, the trilogy "The Tale of Jenny and Screech") but on a completely different note, please also let your soul be exposed to the beauty of Loïc Nottet's song "Monsieur/Madame"... You won't regret it. English subtitles available on his official video
So lovely to hear this perspective. Thank you for your reaction ❤
Your reaction, music knowledge and open heart was so great to experience. Thank you, I just subscribed
I cry every time, as it seems to release a sense of tension and hope in me. In a odd way this song has given me impetus to deal with growing old. I was rushed to hospital a couple of weeks ago being unable to breathe properly. I'm 80 and know it's the first sign of a failing heart and lungs but now just have to deal with it, accept it and that we are human and love our time here. We chose it. Not sure why though!
Awesome welcome to the Ren rabbit hole. As a 48 yo musician. I love everything I've heard from him.
I love your reaction to this masterpiece. I was feeling it right alongside you. So expressive.
EXCELLENT reaction! loved it!