First Time Hearing Hi Ren by Ren | Suicide Survivor Reacts

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  • Опубліковано 19 січ 2023
  • If you, like most of us, never had Happiness 101 in school, let me be your teacher! Learn the EXACT steps I took in overcoming clinical depression, addiction, self harm and going from ready to end it all to happier than I thought possible. amandawebsterhealth.com/happi...
    I have a special project in the works that will change the mental health world. Patreon pledges will be going toward that (and ongoing projects.) Patreons get priority video requests, twice a month Zoom calls, personalized pictures, exclusive reactions, a peek at upcoming reactions and SO much more. EVERY SINGLE DIME GOES TOWARD MY MENTAL HEALTH OUTREACH!!!!!
    / amandawebsterhealth
    So many people, friends and my community here, recommended this song to me that I had to check it out. This is my reaction to my first time hearing Hi Ren by Ren. I love these types of narratives!
    amanda@amandawebsterhealth.com
    IG: mentalamanda (my other one got deleted!)
    Suicide Hotlines by Country: tinyurl.com/ftuart38
    Recommended Playlist (VLOG: My Mental Health Journey)
    tinyurl.com/MentalAmandaList
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КОМЕНТАРІ • 979

  • @MentalAmanda
    @MentalAmanda  Рік тому +357

    💖Keep the mental health conversation going by sharing your story here in the comments. No matter where you are in your journey, you have a safe place here to share your struggles and accomplishments without judgment. This is how we shatter the mental health stigma.💖
    Follow/say hi on IG (@mentalamanda) and if you need some direction and would like me to be your Happiness teacher, you can sign up for my Happiness Boost course here:
    amandawebsterhealth.com/happiness-boost/

    • @christamichelleortloff2195
      @christamichelleortloff2195 Рік тому +10

      Frankly, I'm not "handling" it at all. Shoot, myself, AND my spiritual sister inside me, are both not handling ourselves right now, the mind we both share, despite my best efforts to give her independence and agency years ago, unfortunately didn't work out as planned. Now, whether it's myself of my body physically, the hysterically broken mind is always a poisoning point, the preexisting madness will plague whomever is in control. I even paraphrase a line from a song by the metal band Lordi " the hatter is a loser, and he's my bitch" meaning to me, as, the character from Alice in wonderland, to me doesn't even know the meaning of madness, that tea swelling, mercury poisoned fool

    • @DyvmSlorm
      @DyvmSlorm Рік тому +11

      @@christamichelleortloff2195 Christopher, while I have never been there, I sincerely hope your sides can find a way to coexist and move forward. While you perceive madness, the way you wrote and phrased your comment screams to me that you have something to offer the world. It was eloquent and poetic even while bleak and harsh.

    • @andycopland3179
      @andycopland3179 Рік тому

      I don't like the way you reference the "shadow" in a negative light. The "shadow" in Jungian psychology is an integral part of becoming the whole. We incorporate the shadow as a way of being able to face lifes problems.
      Look at a kid who is bullied and nothing is working for them, they may need to incorporate that "shadow" or part of them that fantasises about violence and that they believe is wrong.... to protect themselves. Incorporate your shadow and then learn to control it like a dog on a lead.

    • @JensRandolff
      @JensRandolff Рік тому +11

      I have been dealing with mental health issues (Major Clinical Depression, Bipolar Disorder, and Unspecified Mood Disorder), in addition to various chronic physical issues, for more than 25 years now. My mental health cost me a successful military career, a marriage, and friendships to the point that I have become a total recluse for the past 13 years. Very rarely do I interact with others. My condition was brought on by prolonged exposure to low-dose sarin nerve gas and experimental vaccines and meds during the Gulf War. A few years later, the now black-boxed use of the anti-malarial "Mefloquine" pushed me over the edge and I experienced psychosis. For over 15 years, I was prescribed a cocktail of max doses of psychotropics until I decided to carefully wean myself off all medications in 2014. The side effects of the drugs were too many and too severe, and the benefits were negligible. I still struggle with my mental health daily, but I rather feel pain than nothing at all. I entirely rely on God for my daily strength; without him, I would have "checked out" a long time ago. I appreciate your efforts to help those in need. God bless you.

    • @sirsmokealot9113
      @sirsmokealot9113 Рік тому +5

      Hey glad you watched this

  • @verified.my2cents
    @verified.my2cents Рік тому +563

    I know Ren doesn't care about the BS industry, but he deserves every accolade and industry wide recognition for Hi Ren. Seriously, this should be song of the year, video of the year, mental health awareness campaign of the year, and more. Calling on all Ren fans - let's make this happen. Download everywhere, share everywhere, lobby everywhere. Salute. Peace.

    • @G_Demolished
      @G_Demolished Рік тому +6

      Then he can show the Grammy to Mephistopheles, pinch his immortal nose and say neener neener.

    • @sydneexxceasy9063
      @sydneexxceasy9063 Рік тому +15

      Fuck that his accolades comes in the lives he touches and people he may save. There isn't a single award that will equate that

    • @rorygilliatte6728
      @rorygilliatte6728 Рік тому +1

      Couldn’t agree more

    • @operatoncreation6396
      @operatoncreation6396 Рік тому +4

      i honestly hope this blows up world wide, will roar for this bro

    • @jfkj1695
      @jfkj1695 Рік тому

      When you say BS industry I think of every government in the world including the royal families and so called elites. F%@ them all!!!!!

  • @thomaswalter123
    @thomaswalter123 3 місяці тому +17

    Retired Army sniper... I was having a dark day, I appreciate your post and thoughts both, thank you, I needed this.

  • @74orpheus
    @74orpheus Рік тому +103

    I'm an intense metalhead. I have a very deep passion for it. But I was seeing this video reacted to by so many who listen to my style of music that I finally caved in after a week.
    I was freakin floored!!!!! Tears still roll down my face every time I watch this video. Brings me back almost 6 years ago when I tried to take my own life. I thought I had lost everything I've worked for, pushed so hard for, gave it everything I had. And I felt I had nothing left no matter what I did. My bipolar depression was taking control of me. Which is where I believe I connect with this video. Both sides taking their opportunity to speak, battling one another. It's a very powerful song.
    I have an 11 year old son who we feel is going through depression and anxiety. So a few nights ago I had him watch this. While my 8 year old daughter was curious enough to ask questions, I noticed my son turn around with a few tears in his eyes as I answered my daughter's questions.
    I really want him to know he can come spill his guts to daddy if he has anything he needs to get off his chest. I've expressed to him how harmful it can be to hold it all inside. I just hope he follows up.

    • @andrewdavidson665
      @andrewdavidson665 9 місяців тому +3

      I'm glad you're still here and around for yourself and your kids.

    • @krisztiankoblos1948
      @krisztiankoblos1948 8 місяців тому +2

      I tought i am the only grown man who drop tears from him.

    • @chewy292929
      @chewy292929 8 місяців тому +2

      I cry every time. And I hope nothing but the best for you and your boy and girl! Best of luck

    • @jaredthomas419
      @jaredthomas419 7 місяців тому +2

      Same, I tear up everything. I've been listening to it for months. While dealing with the same stuff he's singing about. I wish you all and you and your kids well.

    • @Bodgeitbob
      @Bodgeitbob 7 місяців тому

      Big l❤ man xx

  • @user-mt4zr5kp7h
    @user-mt4zr5kp7h Рік тому +292

    Between just watching the video itself, and watching all of the dozens of different reaction videos about it, I've probably seen this song on UA-cam 30 or 40 times now. I say without ego, and as humbly as I can, that after all these times it still makes me cry every time I watch it. As he stands up out of the chair is when it usually starts, and it hits me so hard it knocks the wind out of me. I believe that anyone who's truly lived it, will feel the same resonance with this song that I have. And I have by no means had anywhere near the struggles that this person or many of you may have had but the battle of light and dark, that duality, is in each of us and I feel truly grateful to have seen this.

    • @slagmaggot
      @slagmaggot Рік тому +2

      Same ,I hear you and I feel you

    • @_b0h4z4rd7
      @_b0h4z4rd7 Рік тому +7

      Same here.. i even cried reading your comment at the line "As he stands up..." it hits so hard.. every time.

    • @StuSiney
      @StuSiney Рік тому +5

      Me too. Taking so much pleasure watching people see it. It almost spiritual. I have a huge smile but also tears rolling.. I struggled with ocd 30 years. It hits home more than anything

    • @cubbance
      @cubbance Рік тому +7

      I was afraid I was going to deep into these reactions, but honestly, I'll stop watching when it stops making me cry. I don't think that's any time soon.

    • @LauraHorrorshow
      @LauraHorrorshow Рік тому +7

      Dude. Came here to say exactly this. I’ve watched this video and so many reactions to it now. Dozens and dozens of times. I still ugly cry. Every. Single. Time. It hits so hard and so deep and resonates so strongly somewhere in the very pit of my soul. I don’t even like hip hop as a rule. But this song, this artist, is something completely different. And I cannot sing his praises enough. ❤

  • @sayntfuu
    @sayntfuu 2 місяці тому +5

    "The fact that these stories are so similar is what makes sharing them so effective, because it highlights the fact that it's something experienced by a significant portion of the population." Damn that pretty insightful too. Thank you for that. Excellent reaction.

    • @namelia4439
      @namelia4439 Місяць тому

      This comment should have more likes!!!

  • @AlvenmodFoto
    @AlvenmodFoto Рік тому +51

    Like many others just can't stop listening to this song, the line "Some people know me as the voice that you hear when you loosen the nooze of the rope"...oh lord, that gets me every single time

    • @namelia4439
      @namelia4439 Місяць тому

      Every. Single. Time. 💜

  • @DocHogan
    @DocHogan Рік тому +325

    As others have pointed out, Ren's "Tale of Jenny and Screech (full)" (aka The Trilogy) is a must-watch. "Sick Boi", which dropped yesterday, is, in its way, a follow-up to "Hi Ren"; it's VERY different, stylistically, but absolutely as impactful

    • @DocHogan
      @DocHogan Рік тому +5

      Other on-topic tracks I'd _highly_ recommend are Chalk Outlines, How To Be Me, Everybody Drops, Depression, and "Ren ft. Molly McKinna - Penitence"

    • @tinymusikcodottv-Musikverse99
      @tinymusikcodottv-Musikverse99 Рік тому +4

      @@DocHogan Dont forget HOLD ON and Do you Believe

    • @DocHogan
      @DocHogan Рік тому +6

      @tinymusikcodottv-Musikverse99 I mean... just recommend EVERYTHING, really.... is a never- ending rabbit hole with ZERO wrong turns or dead ends ;) So much of his work deals with his battle with Lyme's Disease, misdiagnosis, his childhood psychoses and mpd, etc.
      There are no bad choices, here, the ones I listed were just the ones I found most directly impactful within context

    • @tinymusikcodottv-Musikverse99
      @tinymusikcodottv-Musikverse99 Рік тому +5

      @@DocHogan Very true, Also being in your bedroom sick for all that time. your mind starts seeing the world as it truly is through all the research he did and not through just seeing news channels.. once you see a lot of truths that most people don't understand because they are worshipping mega stars and presidents you can write about it and put music to amazing lyrics and that is what happened. Sickness can and will cause mental illness. Ren is going to tell a lot of truths in his upcoming songs about a lot of different things he sees as wrong with the world and as he wants to fix his illness he also wants to fix humanity, The world to make a better humanity for all humans !!! I belive he will change so many human's way of thinking in the next few months. he has already changed so many. he knows that the hate they creat is fake!!

    • @XxFordyyy
      @XxFordyyy Рік тому +1

      Absolutely a must listen

  • @rikimaru1007
    @rikimaru1007 Рік тому +122

    I love the fact than ren did that live. You can see him unplugging his guitar and taking the mic off his clothes at the end. A true genius

    • @jw1289
      @jw1289 Рік тому +15

      He was in the comments during his latest release Sick Boi on Thursday night. He said Ho REN was live but this was the 4th take. He is the one take king.

    • @odochartaighofodonegal2351
      @odochartaighofodonegal2351 Рік тому +10

      In one FREAKIN take !!!

    • @stevie5100
      @stevie5100 Рік тому +3

      ​@@jw1289 holy shit. Thats mad

    • @robbiepaulmusic
      @robbiepaulmusic Рік тому

      You can see by the camera angles there was definately more than one take. After they take the camera off rhe tripod it will switch to the center view and start to zoom out. Instantly it goes to close-up and starts to zoom out again. There had to have been a break or more than one take to do that. Also the hand-held cameraman needs to back away when the view is switched to the center. Unless they had 5 perfectly placed cameras on tripods and an invisible drone for the hand-held closeups, I would have to say it's a compilation of a minimum of 2 takes. I saw another post where someone said 4... That I believe.

    • @zaraw69
      @zaraw69 Рік тому +3

      @@robbiepaulmusic that is as easy as having multiple cameras filming as he gets one continuous audio of the song & then stiching them together after hun. Still counts as one take.

  • @becks7474
    @becks7474 Рік тому +182

    This man is a legend. I would do literally everything to hear this song for the first time again. Since I found it 1 or 2 weeks ago I haven’t listen to any other song than this

    • @Greebox-
      @Greebox- Рік тому +7

      Same 🧡

    • @thetalantonx
      @thetalantonx Рік тому +5

      I go looking for first time reactions daily to get that feeling again vicariously, and to make sure new people know where to go for more.

    • @TheNordicharps
      @TheNordicharps Рік тому +1

      Yes exactly

    • @AaronScott84
      @AaronScott84 Рік тому +1

      I have never stopped and told myself, just stop doing everything else and experience this... until the the first time I was watching Ren's music video

    • @stpfs9281
      @stpfs9281 Рік тому

      Different from the usual junk, he is special.
      There are other artists that reach into your soul, Aurora, Angelina Jordan, Floor Jansen, to start with.

  • @christopherpalmer8560
    @christopherpalmer8560 11 місяців тому +29

    This song hit me really hard, I've been listening to it non stop for a week now. One think I've been noticing lately is how the debate escalates throughout the song. In the beginning, he talks about how he's been gone for a while. He's calm, he's confident, he's in a good place because he hasn't been dealing with his shadow for a while. As the song continues, his shadow picks at him more and more and you can see him get rattled more and more. Everyone's shadow knows what to say and how to say it because it IS them. Eventually, it turns into a relentless argument that Ren isn't going to win, his shadow will always win that argument because that's where it thrives. Once his shadow sees that he's broken him back down, he reminds him that his shadow is pure evil and he will never be gone. Like most evil, this was the shadow's downfall. It reminded Ren that it's not going to go away and arguing with it will not help, it will only make it worse for Ren. It told Ren that he was MENT to be tested and twisted, broken and beat, and just like the night has dawn, it's His plan for him to stand on his own two feet in the face of his shadow. When he learns to stands up to the shadow, it will cower at the man he's become (my favorite line in the song). He's going to prosper because he stands there beside him. We can't argue with our shadow, that doesn't work, like you said, you need to learn to stand up to it if you want to prosper. This man is pure genius.

  • @goatkiller666
    @goatkiller666 Рік тому +20

    I love how the first line he sings is “Cower at the man I become, when I sing at the top of my lungs”. It’s such a meta lyric, in a work filled with meta lyrics.

  • @jw1289
    @jw1289 Рік тому +43

    My favorite line is the part where he wants to “I’ll stand in your fire and inspire the weak to be strong”. This song has helped me in ways it’s difficult to explain. Loved the reaction and subbed

  • @eriadin
    @eriadin Рік тому +57

    I have to say, out of all the reactions to "Hi Ren", yours is the most... expressive? It's clear that the story resonates with you intensely.
    Great video!
    Since you asked to share our stories, I often face self-doubt as well, paradoxically because of nothing bad ever happening to me, my life is fine, I'm stable mentally, I'm healthy physically, I've never faced any tragedies or traumas, and yet I struggle with my self-esteem, Ren's songs give me hope and faith that it is okay to struggle. Amazing

  • @alanphillips4851
    @alanphillips4851 Рік тому +52

    This is one reaction out of the hundreds out there that I wish Ren would find. Its so real. Your expressions from total surprise to annoyed to a most incredible smile personify this incredible piece of art way better than any other reaction I've seen. Love your channel, you make a difference and many of us relate.

  • @memnoch1313
    @memnoch1313 Рік тому +62

    I'm an avid metal/deathcore listener but discovering Ren through this song a few weeks ago hit me very hard and its a musical masterpiece imo. I'm a ambivalent ENFP/enneagram 4 with LLI (Low Latent Inhibition), I don't think I've ever found an artist I relate to more than Ren. I never had autoimmunity but I deeply understand that struggle. I developed an archetype for my shadow/inferior side and I've been able to make peace with it, integrating it in a way thats beneficial. I believe it will always be a work in progress but I also think that's a good thing because it keeps me sharp and eager to learn and strive to be better.
    Also I might be off here but what Ren does in his performances is a form of mental shapeshifting. Being able to snap quickly from one side to the other, its not simply acting but a controlled shift in personality. I can do a similar thing which works extremely well when I karaoke metal songs and in being a haunt actor. 🤷‍♂️😅 If you read this far, thank you and have a great day!

  • @ryderjohnson1293
    @ryderjohnson1293 Рік тому +25

    "This is one of the most beautiful things I've ever seen."
    I felt that in my soul. Idk how many times I've watched this, I still get goosebumps when he rises from that chair. This is the power of art.

  • @annaspurlock439
    @annaspurlock439 Рік тому +116

    Ren’s collaboration with Chinchilla called Chalk Outlines is another one that is so impactful and also about how hard it is to emerge from depression and how hard it is to embrace hope. It’s beautiful. This one in particular ua-cam.com/video/35yALr_opeg/v-deo.html

    • @fourcornersofbrighton
      @fourcornersofbrighton Рік тому +6

      I agree, Chalk Outlines is an important one for the health community in general. My issues have been more medically related but there are so many lines in it that speak to me as well. I'd like to make sure this song gets out there too.

    • @oropendola9101
      @oropendola9101 Рік тому +4

      Yes, chalk outlines is beautiful and so moving

    • @taureanrage2065
      @taureanrage2065 Рік тому +3

      If you like that then they also did a song together called How to be Me.
      It's for the Semi-Colon project and there's a verse in there that talks about a friend of Ren's that unfortunately lost his battle.
      That song impacts me even more.

  • @brauntichy883
    @brauntichy883 Рік тому +96

    Ren is a legend. His music is so raw and real and in glad you found him. There are so many of his songs I would suggest, but you should probably start with his trilogy Jenny's tale, screeches tale, and violets tale. Enjoy the rabbit hole 😁👍

  • @lokihasbeentaken8493
    @lokihasbeentaken8493 Рік тому +18

    I've dealt with what Ren has, auto immune disorder and severe depression. This song breaks my heart because I understand it.

  • @1998TDM
    @1998TDM Рік тому +36

    This song and the reactions have been like nectar to a bee for me recently. I don't have a terrible story, just an average one. Everything in my life dissolved a few years ago, I didn't sleep for weeks, I was alone and broken inside. My thoughts were very dark and some bad actions accompanied them, alone in the pit with no ladder and no light.
    I was sat at traffic lights in a car, near twilight in the pouring rain, bad light, congestion, steamy windows, mind churning when a thought floated to the surface.
    If I can feel this bad then I can still feel, that's good, I'm not broken. From that moment on I stood up and started to walk into my future.
    And that future is a good place, a really good place.
    Thank you for your reaction and sharing your journey.
    Check out The Big Push, Ren busking, some amazing music.

    • @MentalAmanda
      @MentalAmanda  Рік тому +5

      I'm happy that you've found the future you deserve!

  • @sonicfear4472
    @sonicfear4472 7 місяців тому +4

    This song struck so close to home for me, like Ren, I was misdiagnosed at a young age (When it was still treatable). It wasn't till much later in life at the age of 48 I was finally properly diagnosed with a rare form of a genetic disease, unfortunately to late for treatment or mitigation. As a result I've had two hip implants, Ulcers, severe Osteo Arthritis in all of my major joints, can only ambulate with a walker at the age of 57. Having been homebound for the last decade and isolated, of course my mental health has suffered along with my physical struggle. I connected to this song and it's message, leaving me both in shambles and relieved at the same time emotionally. His conveyance of the inner dialogue and the struggle within, so on point and so very relatable. Yes Ren, you are also known as "Hope", your song gave me back hope and has helped me tremendously.

    • @namelia4439
      @namelia4439 Місяць тому

      You are an inspiration. I’m sorry for all you’ve been through, and I am humbled by your honesty and your struggles. Sending love and peace.

  • @papasmurph131
    @papasmurph131 Рік тому +49

    I love that you checked this out. I just recently discovered Ren through this song, and I truly believe it's one of, if not the most, important work of art for this time. Ren is a real-life hero 🧡

  • @josephmiley7005
    @josephmiley7005 Рік тому +17

    Ren himself will respond to this if he already hasn't - he is so keyed in to how much this is affecting people - i can't listen without crying from commiseration and from the joy of him overcoming

  • @PeterPrestonUK
    @PeterPrestonUK Рік тому +21

    What I know about this video/song since I watched and shared it, then went down the Ren rabbit hole, then watched a load of reactions, is that there are a lot of people out there who are more than just impressed with him, but have actually confronted their own mental health in a way they haven't previously. It has changed my life and it has changed the life of my best friend. I have zero doubt that this has affected thousands of people as deeply as any therapy or medication has. The man is borderline messiah for the subject. Thanks for your addition to the growing voices of support. Show him some love as he is currently undergoing a 6+month treatment regime away from his home.

  • @Brunners90
    @Brunners90 Рік тому +29

    I love seeing Ren get the love he deserves. Sickboi is a stylistically different song, but I think you'll resonate with the message in that one too.
    If you like the guitar based storytelling, his Tale of Jenny & Screech (full version) is a must watch.

  • @philosofize803
    @philosofize803 Рік тому +15

    I absolutely LOVED your reaction! I like to think the beginning "oh oh oh oh oh" part is part of his eternal dance, first you are bewildered, scared, afraid, confused. Then by the end after better understanding his story he continues his eternal dance but this time you are smiling and feeling good. Two sides of the same coin, constantly swaying like a pendulum back and forth.

    • @KernowFishy
      @KernowFishy Рік тому +2

      i also love the fact he doesn't hit the last note, like he's telling us that the dance never ends.

  • @Bones469
    @Bones469 Рік тому +28

    This is a tough one.... Even after a couple weeks now I still break down in tears when I listen to this or even watch the reactions of somebody that has been down the road a time or two. I still feel what he is saying and still feel those sleepless nights of internal dialogue and thought-loops. Even now I still avoid ever letting this one play while I am at the gym, especially if I don't have sunglasses.

    • @One-way
      @One-way Рік тому +1

      After the third time thru I now tear up each time

  • @pondboy3682
    @pondboy3682 Рік тому +10

    Many reactors don't catch what's happening until Ren switches voices. It gave me chills all over again how you instantly knew the dark voice of his shadow!

  • @geraintjones6401
    @geraintjones6401 Рік тому +27

    The fact that this song connects with so many people shows what a talented songwriter and performer Ren is, and it also shows how many people struggle with their own internal battles, at least to some degree. No one is alone. We're in this together. Let's be nice to each other. Edit: I like what you said about using your shadow for good. I use my "dark energy" to drive me when walking or running on the hills, and when cycling. I think it's very important to have a constructive outlet for it and I'm so, so relieved that I found one, i.e. exercise.

    • @stpfs9281
      @stpfs9281 Рік тому

      Yep, exercise as the exorcist.

  • @aaronbrady4937
    @aaronbrady4937 Рік тому

    I have been waiting for this reaction..Thank you for shining light on this topic.

  • @kylemiller4091
    @kylemiller4091 Рік тому +1

    You can't imagine how much fun it is to see you growing and learning.

  • @MC_kalCM
    @MC_kalCM Рік тому +33

    Thanks for reacting to this song. Ren just got to Canada for treatment's, a couple times a week & could be there for up to 6mo's... but he brilliantly pre-recorded song's/vid's & will be releasing them in due time. Thanks for reacting to this. Stay awesome, man. Stay healthy. He's gonna love your reaction.
    Also... he literally visualized his lyrics. Tiny light in the back casting a darker shadow in front of the brightest light showing lightest shadow. Him being sickly/stiff, then loosening up. Standing (growing) & fluidly moving about in full expression while his feet stay planted.

    • @robbiepaulmusic
      @robbiepaulmusic Рік тому +1

      The shadows were cast by 2 spotlights on the ceiling out of the camera view. You can see them in the hand-held camera. Yes they were ingeniously placed so the shadow from the spotlight on the left was washed out from the spotlight on the right. The two blinking lamps were too weak to cast any significant shadows. If they were any brighter they would have interfered with the cameras. Somebody really knew their shit about lighting there.

  • @hmtell4190
    @hmtell4190 Рік тому +5

    I really appreciated your reaction to this. Learning how to dance with our darkness is a lifelong journey and it does help to know that there are others trying to do the same dance, even if we're listening to different music.

  • @milnez
    @milnez Рік тому

    This hits so hard 😢 gets me every time… one of the most intense pieces and how it shares those insecurities we all have… pure art ❤

  • @davidroth520
    @davidroth520 Рік тому

    I love your reaction! You follow so well his ups and downs, his struggles and triumphs!

  • @droom700
    @droom700 Рік тому +11

    This man is a living legend that needs to be heard. The way he expresses what so many of us feel is a talent that should be celebrated… love you brother, hope you see the love there is out there for you. You deserve more recognition than you are getting in my opinion, hope some day soon it comes your way and you see you are more than you will ever know. Peace brother!

  • @eddieklotz9966
    @eddieklotz9966 Рік тому +4

    I’m a grown man and made me tear up and do everytime I watch it he is different then anyone I’ve ever heard plus his messages hit me deeply

  • @Tarlain
    @Tarlain Рік тому

    I enjoyed watching your reaction. I love your facial expressions as the music changes. Thanks for your work!

  • @joelshah-rao3010
    @joelshah-rao3010 Рік тому

    Thank you for this reaction - your insights are amazing and helping people who need to hear it.

  • @JensRandolff
    @JensRandolff Рік тому +29

    Great reaction and commentary. I only recently learned about Ren and have gone down this rabbit hole ever since. Many of the experiences and emotions expressed in his songs touch me on a very personal level because I can relate to and identify with his struggles.
    A little background on Ren that I gathered from the internet. Ren pursued a career in music from an early age. In 2009, while studying music performance at Bath Spa University, he began to experience health issues and was struggling to attend his lectures. In 2010, he was signed by Sony Records and was working on an album when his health deteriorated to the point where he was unable to continue. His illness often kept him in bed for up to 23 hours a day. Ren was initially diagnosed with depression, bipolar disorder, and chronic fatigue syndrome. It would take seven years before he was finally diagnosed correctly with autoimmunity, Lyme disease, and brain damage. Ren eventually underwent stem cell therapy in the United States, which improved his health, but it has not been a cure. He is currently in Canada for more treatments.
    Ren is an incredible and unique artist; he plays multiple instruments, has great vocal ability, is an excellent storyteller, and is quite the philosopher and poet. From what I read, his videos are shot live, all in one take by his friend. I recommend you check out some of his other work. The trilogy "The Tale of Jenny/Screech/Violet" is haunting and has an unexpected ending; WATCH THEM IN THE STATED ORDER, as this is the flow of the storyline or just watch “The Tale of Jenny & Screech (Full)” which includes “Violet’s Tale at the end. It is another example of Ren’s genius and a master’s class in storytelling.
    His song "Money Game" (Part I & II) is another recommendation. If you like his personal reflections, they 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. As a solo act, Ren performs a range of genres, much of it hip-hop/rap influenced, as well as guitar-based ballads.
    His collaborations with Sam Tompkins (“Blind Eyed,” “Earned it /Mans World / Falling”), with Chinchilla (“How to Be Me,” “Chalk Outlines”), with Eden Nash (“Humble,” “Ocean”), with Bibi (“Crutch,” “Ahiahiaoha”), with Molly McKinna (“Penitence”), with his former band mate, Romain Axisa (“French Song”) and any of his performances as a member of the band "The Big Push" (which unfortunately broke up) are awesome and well worth checking out, both the busking (street performances) and their live recordings. Ren has impressive vocal and instrumental skills. He is one-of-a-kind and appears mature beyond his years.
    Ren released just his latest single, “Sick Boi.” In anticipation of his stay in Canada for more treatments, Ren prepared some music ahead of time to be released over the next 3-6 months that he expects to be gone.

    • @paulhopkins686
      @paulhopkins686 Рік тому +3

      Thank you for your time writing this up.

    • @ED-007
      @ED-007 Рік тому +1

      Check out his track called Crutch with his ex gf who was there with him when he became ill. Just found it in the last couple days and I’ve been mesmerized listening on repeat ever since.

    • @JensRandolff
      @JensRandolff Рік тому +1

      @@ED-007 I did watch it just the other day and left a comment for Ren. It is a powerful song, and the video is beautifully haunting and sad. It is another song that speaks to me personally. I have it on various Spotify playlists and listen to it several times a day..

    • @davidjarvie9546
      @davidjarvie9546 Рік тому

      Keep seeing you on all the reaction videos Jen.💙🇬🇧👍🙏

  • @DK_Son
    @DK_Son Рік тому +4

    Your reaction is amazing. I felt all of that. I love that Ren hasn't bound himself to one genre. That puts him in a league of his own. He hits any genre he's feeling. I think this is peak artistry. He's not molded to one thing. He just does what he feels at the time, and it allows him to release constant bangers, because he doesn't have to force himself to come up with rap, rock, etc. He can just float across them all. That's such an incredible talent.

  • @personthe-person7653
    @personthe-person7653 Рік тому

    This was one of my favorite reactions to Hi Ren. Very helpful, very profound. Thank you.

  • @catedoge3206
    @catedoge3206 9 місяців тому

    You have a beautiful soul. Never change. We need more people like you.

  • @detecnicksmetaldetectors2984
    @detecnicksmetaldetectors2984 Рік тому +3

    Ren is amazing , i have seen him busking in brighton a couple of times, and he is one of my favourite artists , this song is so powerful.

  • @mikenicholas9017
    @mikenicholas9017 Рік тому +4

    Lately I've taken to watching lots of reactions to Hi Ren. It is usual to watch minds blown. This is the first time I've seen a heart burst in joy 🥰 Go get him girl... you know you want to! 😄

  • @kurtj98
    @kurtj98 Рік тому

    Love your reaction and analysis. I watch this video 5 times a day. So moving, so important, so eye opening. Thanks for reviewing it.

  • @sdkdmd9072
    @sdkdmd9072 6 місяців тому

    Thank you for posting this. Hi REN was just the beginning and that rabbit hole is deep

  • @Veeliscious
    @Veeliscious Рік тому +7

    Another YT reactor said "Ren is a Wormhole, I need to deep dive this guy" and that's exactly it - I, like thousands of his Community (for that is what his presence has created amongst his followers), see him with one performance and automatically we feel compelled to deep dive and watch everything he has produced- and each piece is so unique, a surprise, covering a multitude of genres brilliantly. He's a lyrical and performance genius (his solo piano playing is exquisite) who truly captivates his audience and draws them into his world, yet so authentic and humble. His Reach is two- pronged I feel: those who simply enjoy and appreciate his musical and performance genius; and those who resonate with parts of his story as he articulates our own pain and struggles, our own battles of Darkness and Light. Imo, he's a celestial being, an Earth Angel, a born Warrior of Light and is now stepping into his Power and breathing life and blood into his wings to shine his Light of hope, inspiration and validation through the myriad of gifts and talents he has, and with this piece in particular has created a Portal for so many others now to feel safer to step into and express and expose themselves, their perfections and imperfections, their mental health struggles and demons that is normally so stigmatised and deeply misunderstood by those who've not experienced it. I'm so glad for him this deeply personal, vulnerable masterpiece is now giving him the reach and spotlight he deserves - he's worked so hard for it -"Renlentessly" - for so long whilst still battling ill health. He really will continue to rise in the songs that he leaves behind, I have no doubt.
    I recommend checking out Insomnia, Depression and Chalk Outlines for your channel next

  • @JR-kb1re
    @JR-kb1re Рік тому +4

    Appreciate your input! It’s interesting you pointed out that it’s important to recognize your depression as a separate entity. That’s part of the reason why psilocybin and mdma treatments work in a therapy setting, because it dissolves your ego and allows you to confront that entity (depression, anxiety, addiction, etc.), and kick it in the throat!

  • @MrBedZeppelin
    @MrBedZeppelin Рік тому

    Well Done, Amanda! You are strong! Virtual Hugs for all you do!

  • @forestduffe5576
    @forestduffe5576 Рік тому

    New listening to this song... I love it. Thanks for reaction Amanda ❤️ going on my playlist.

  • @Oakroot10
    @Oakroot10 Рік тому +21

    He just released a new track Sick Boi, which is very different, but equally as powerful.
    Ren is currently in Canada receiving further treatment for his illness (he was miss diagnosed with Lyme disease for almost five years).
    You might appreciate that too. I am 52 & a sufferer of anxiety depression & Tourette (motor ticks), Ren’s music (& this song in particular) has had a profound effect on me recently & I’m grateful for it.

    • @juliasharon5337
      @juliasharon5337 Рік тому

      me too and ME CFS -causes lots of brain issues- dealing for 30 years with that and dysphagia caused by the brain damage- ren is wonderful- true artist

  • @PatrioticBlues
    @PatrioticBlues Рік тому +4

    Really enjoyed the breakdown on this masterpiece performance! I think you would really enjoy The Tale of Jenny and Screech by Ren. He released a full version with all three parts, Jenny, Screech and finally Violet. Looking forward to your reaction!

  • @luketubnor7323
    @luketubnor7323 Рік тому

    Have watched a bunch of Hi Ren reactions.
    Your facial expressions had me in tears.
    Your mental health analysis is super helpful.
    Keep up the good work.

  • @maximeallard5282
    @maximeallard5282 Рік тому

    your reaction when he stud up at the end , i saw the emotion in your face . thank you !

  • @Dreveryn
    @Dreveryn Рік тому +4

    I just recently found Ren myself, and the more I dive in to his music the more of his genius I discover. Highly recommend checking out The Tale of Jenny and Screech. It's one that after you hear the tales, you see twice as much going back through it.

  • @donaldcase4716
    @donaldcase4716 Рік тому +3

    That last part of oohh with the flickering lights was his acceptance of the shadow and living in harmony, IMO.
    This is an INCREDIBLE reaction.

  • @conv1cted752
    @conv1cted752 Рік тому

    I found this today, and omg, I have it on repeat. I'm so glad you did a reaction to it as well. It's such an amazing piece that shows the try struggle within. Also, your makeup is stunning.

  • @vitamind1200
    @vitamind1200 Рік тому

    So happy to have found your page from this reaction video. This is the realness that music is desperately in need of. So many of us suffer from this and it needs to be spoken about more freely. And if possible, as beautifully as this. Thanks for the upload. Subscribed!!

  • @iandism
    @iandism Рік тому +4

    I discovered this song when there were only 500 views and it has now grown into something that everyone is listening to. Being labeled with depression for my nearly 60 years, life has been a very dark place for much of that time, and this song hit home from the moment I heard it. Since then, I've probably watched 200+ reactions and I have to say, yours has been my favourite so far. Your anger at "the shadow" (as you call it) was obvious, and your love for the struggling side beautiful. So many of the lyrics in this song make me feel how far I have come. I actually still have a rope attached to my bed frame for when I was ready to jump from my window. It's no longer there for that reason, but a reminder that I don't need it anymore. I've had vast amounts of therapy, emdr, medications of every kind. I am now drug free and feeling the best I have ever felt, having spiritual healing and learning that life is very precious. Thank you for your reaction 😊

  • @cosmicdebris5260
    @cosmicdebris5260 Рік тому +3

    It is been a blessing to follow Ren over the last several years! He is like the Phoenix Rising From the Ashes! To see his recovery is totally inspiring besides the fact he is one of the most talented Minstrel musician Poets of our time!🌿💔

  • @aaronsmith6077
    @aaronsmith6077 Рік тому

    I've watched many reviews of this song. Yours is the best by far. Thank you.

  • @Lladra
    @Lladra Рік тому

    Thank you fellow student.
    Your bravery in sharing your emotional reaction (and story) humbles me.

  • @stevecoronado1103
    @stevecoronado1103 Рік тому +19

    I've seen this pop up all over my UA-cam channel and didn't click on it until you came up. Having discovered your channel and heard the way you take certain songs and give a positive commentary in regards to mental health I knew this song needed me to hear it and thanks to you I'm better for having done so. Much love to you and yours!

    • @saiyongdawn7756
      @saiyongdawn7756 Рік тому +1

      I watched it on one of my Reactors channel. Since then I been requesting it a lot on other channels I watch. 🤗

  • @TheChristafershawn
    @TheChristafershawn Рік тому +9

    Sick Boi (Ren is suffering from Lime Disease) is the next to check out or rather I would recommend. Kinda part two or a prequel to this. I just found this dude a couple days ago along with many others due to the much deserved hype. Absolutely my favorite "new" artist instantly. There is rabbit whole to go down with this one for sure , enjoy the journey. Subbed.

  • @necromorphicdespair5422
    @necromorphicdespair5422 7 місяців тому

    I've watched many reactions of "Hi Ren" and seeing yours and how deeply it touched you emotionally, touched me as well. Stay strong we are all proud of how far you and all of you have come!

  • @moose6667
    @moose6667 Рік тому +1

    I’m late again, but I really really appreciate your thoughts & breakdowns. Thank you so much for everything you do.

  • @mr.ch4rli3_
    @mr.ch4rli3_ Рік тому +5

    It can be interpreted in many ways. For me it's reminds me of my struggle with addiction.
    This song is pretty impactful, I've listened to it now many many many times and each time It still hits me, deep, right In the feels.

    • @hadafewreviews7479
      @hadafewreviews7479 Рік тому

      Yep… that line at the start “not your place to be biting off the hand that feeds me!” Is the voice telling you to score for sure. I felt that anyway.

  • @DocHogan
    @DocHogan Рік тому +30

    Every time it gets to the part where he tries to bottle up Shadow, causing its eruption... the apotheosis and catharsis ... chills and blubbering each and every time

  • @lvb1770
    @lvb1770 Рік тому

    I've been binge watching all the Hi Ren video reactions for the last 3 days. You are my favorite! I think it's all the real sincerity expressed as you watched with understanding and empathy. Beautiful job! I think we are witnessing the making of a man who can help better the world with his music.

  • @mccollins
    @mccollins Рік тому

    Instant subscribe, you are awesome and honest - and very helpful!!

  • @Cameron655
    @Cameron655 Рік тому +5

    I love Ren. He doesn't just have mental health problems (errr, me too?) but also serious physical health problems (errr, me too) and he just powers on. Triumph of mind over matter. 💗

  • @SalfordUnCensored
    @SalfordUnCensored Рік тому +6

    hii,these are Rens own words...
    In 2016 I had a stem cell transplant that saved my life, this video was taken two year before that. After the transplant I decided to force my past into a little box and hide it from myself. I wouldn't ever watch this video back. There has always been a part of me that's terrified that I'll end up back here and loose myself again. That part of me always gets loudest when I'm on my own with my thoughts.
    When I got better and my music started becoming successful after years of never thinking it would be possible I almost treated it as a reincarnation. I'd barley talk about where I'd come from with friends, but despite my best efforts my past usually found a way to leak into my music.
    Here I was convinced I was going to die. I was severely underweight, I had severe bone pain every day, I could barley eat food, I suffered extreme fatigue to the point even standing in a shower was excruciating. I ended up in a state of stress induced psychosis, my minds only rational explanation for the level of suffering I was enduring was that it was some kind of demonic intervention or that i was part of some twisted experiment or study. This had been my life for years. I'd bounced from doctor to doctor full of hope only to have my heart repeatedly stamped on when my condition only worsened.
    Cut to present day and PTSD from years of my body torturing itself stopped me from doing work that I think is vital. Shedding light on a very under-lit , underfunded, and barley understood area. The plight of the chronically sick. Millions of people all over the world are missing. Trapped inside themselves. Conditions like ME/CFS, ehlers danlos syndrome, POTS, MCAS, lyme disease, M.S. etc. Receive such little funding. To put the lack of funding into perspective, male pattern receives over one thousand times the funding than many of these chronic illnesses do combined. Recent studies found the quality of life of a person with chronic M.E. was significantly worse than someone with HIV or breast cancer. M.E. is currently one of the most underfunded disease at the national institute of health.
    I was one of the exceptionally few very lucky people to escape before I died after receiving a stem cell transplant and finding a hugely restrictive diet that stopped my autoimmunity flaring to the point where it was disabling but I still suffer a wide array of symptoms every day.
    To dive deeper into living up to the words of the late and great Nina Simone, who has for a long time been a great source of inspiration for me, I wanted my next piece of work to fearlessly stare my past in the face despite the trauma of doing so.
    mk57...)))

  • @maqjr9798
    @maqjr9798 Рік тому

    This is your first video I've even seen and I know I'm late. I just discovered this masterpiece yesterday. Your reaction is one of the best I've seen so far. Your genuine expressions throughout and your words were both amazing.

  • @kimjuanalehmann2365
    @kimjuanalehmann2365 8 місяців тому

    Oh my god, your reaction is so heartfelt and genuine, makes me tear up, youve Got such a wonderful personality, first video watched, certainly not the last xx

  • @jeffmason4151
    @jeffmason4151 Рік тому +7

    I've watched at least 10 of these reaction blogs on this amazing masterpiece by Ren.
    Your reaction Amanda was far more sincere than any of the others. Because you could feel his struggle throughout each line and verse, and this song/story has been made to do exactly that.
    If this song helps people in their personal fight for peace, then that's a good thing. Thank you for sharing ❤️

  • @wanrell
    @wanrell Рік тому +6

    Great and well detailed reaction video! Definitely check out his new release "Sick Boi" and while there check his other work such as the Tales of Jenny & Screech! :)

  • @GenericThomas
    @GenericThomas Рік тому +2

    Fantastic reaction. Also, Ren is amazing. He's so much more than a single genre artist, and an admirable person when it comes to the messages he puts out

  • @JohnPaul-hm2ys
    @JohnPaul-hm2ys Рік тому

    Amanda, your reaction to this was beautiful and touching. I consider this a warrior song and have been watching so many reactors doing their take on the phenomenal video. Each one has a slightly different worthwhile take for that person.

  • @murf493
    @murf493 Рік тому +13

    Man you're better than I am, I cried like a fucking baby the first few times I watched this video

    • @MentalAmanda
      @MentalAmanda  Рік тому +1

      I never know what songs/videos will have my bawling!

  • @barrettflorida
    @barrettflorida Рік тому +3

    F@ck this is hard. At times almost too hard to watch, but then you know you aren't alone. Just found this and "chalk outlines". He definitely says what a lot of us deal with. Amazing.

  • @ronknight9974
    @ronknight9974 Рік тому

    So I've followed you for a bit now. Your reaction from "news flash" on was seriously point on and my own as well. Thank you. Much love from Ron in TN

  • @timo9403
    @timo9403 Рік тому

    So, this is art with excellent guitar playing, singing, rapping and relatable content. It took listening to it a few times to really take it all in.

  • @kontactbox
    @kontactbox Рік тому +12

    Great react.
    I think you are going to like Ren - The Tale of Jenny & Screech (full)

    • @DyvmSlorm
      @DyvmSlorm Рік тому

      As I said though, it needs to be on a strong day to help balance the darkness of the song.

    • @DocHogan
      @DocHogan Рік тому +1

      I don't think "like" is the word you're looking for here, but... yeah, HIGHLY recommended. Just... be prepared to be kicked in the teeth. With a brick.

    • @kontactbox
      @kontactbox Рік тому +1

      @@DocHogan,i'm sorry if my choice of words was not the most appropriate.
      I used the word "like" because ren is a fantastic storyteller. In my opinion a urban day shakespearean.

    • @DocHogan
      @DocHogan Рік тому +1

      @kontactbox it was fine :) The 'Trilogy' _is_ hard to 'like', as in 'enjoy', but it is a must watch, it is engaging and captivating, and another incredible work of Art.

  • @stecoupe2039
    @stecoupe2039 Рік тому +3

    Even the crescendo before ren goes tenor is a lesson….. the guy is a genius

  • @SkyeFyre2131
    @SkyeFyre2131 Рік тому

    Hey Amanda, just found your channel but want to say thanks for that opening message. I give myself a hard time for things that i let others away with, so that reminder is appreciated.

  • @fledits
    @fledits 3 місяці тому +1

    Loved the reaction! You would be a great actress btw. You’re facial expressions are really good!

  • @Spunky62
    @Spunky62 Рік тому +5

    OH, REN is BRILLIANT! As a 60 SURVIVOR (x2) it is SOOO relatable! SUBBED for MORE! He JUST dropped a NEW one...SICK BOI. (It will explain my "attempts") ITS ❤️‍🔥❤️‍🔥❤️‍🔥, but THEN AGAIN...ALL his music is 🔥🔥🔥🔥🤷‍♀️✌️❤️🎶🎶🎶🎶😎 Glad I found you! 🙋‍♀️

  • @majboomer1285
    @majboomer1285 Рік тому +3

    I think the most powerful part of this video is where Ren talks about the struggle being a dance. As he states, there are no winners, and there are no losers in physiological warfare. It is not a battle to "win". You have to accept that the condition exists, and learn to navigate WITH the condition, not try to get rid of it. I have family members that struggle with Bipolar disorder, anxiety, autism, etc. It will never be "gone" but it can be managed. The most effective "pills" you can take, are the people around you.

  • @davidberesford7009
    @davidberesford7009 Рік тому

    It was good to see that you really got this. I thank you for your reaction

  • @BorisMinkov
    @BorisMinkov 10 місяців тому

    Love your reaction Amanda! Thank you! 😊 I see your channel for the first time and I like your deep understanding. Ren is wonderful artist. Also I want to say how wonderful your face and expressions are. You feel the emotions very well. 🙂

  • @vinograd74
    @vinograd74 Рік тому +8

    I am greatful for your reaction in the context of mentioning term "The Shadow". Because Ihave seen abut 20+ reactions to this Ren`s track and none of them mentioned "The Shadow". While actually its a very important part of Young theory on Human psychology. That`s why I admire your remark. I love this video because Ren was very intelligent and truthful showing the intensity of inner battle with his own "Shadow". Ren shows the "Shadow" with the help of blinking lamps. That`s a visual representation. Because it brings the shadows on each item and Ren himself. Of course Eminem (who is also a master of story telling) calls his alter ego "Shady". Which also reminds us of this "Shadow" phenomena. Thanks for your input it helps other spectators relate to this track with better understanding of what is going on.

  • @JennyAnton
    @JennyAnton Рік тому +4

    Watch REN’s Sick Boi and his trilogy next.

  • @devanhammack695
    @devanhammack695 Рік тому

    I love your facial expressions in this reaction.. you were so invested.Great channel... subscribed

  • @shelleybelly66
    @shelleybelly66 Рік тому

    Watching your reactions - your facial expressions, I think are exactly what mine probably looked like the first time I watched Hi Ren. This is profoundly one of the most beautiful and cathartic musical art performances I've ever seen... I had to just "be" very quietly for quite a while after watching it. So moving and so wise.

  • @pink_alligator
    @pink_alligator Рік тому +5

    I'm not even done but I just have to say I immediately felt a kinship (I'm also a survivor, not totally out of the woods yet tho) and knew you were real when you flinched at that aggressive "FUCKING DUMB BOY" like you just like me recognize it all too well, shakes me a bit every time. There're so many such moments in this song, stuff you'd only know if you've lived it

  • @bikeboysyd292
    @bikeboysyd292 Рік тому +3

    Ren is a one of a kind artist. Be careful though his performances can be confronting the end of the Jenny and Screech tale Violet tale is tough.
    Also for something completely different try ‘Carry it well’ by Sam Fischer as an Australian 60 year old male I relate to that song closely

  • @_b0h4z4rd7
    @_b0h4z4rd7 Рік тому

    Thanks for this reaction. This song really touches my soul, I can't hear it without getting goosebumps or shed tears. The song is so great in many ways, it shows amazing rapskills and guitar playing skills and of course it has so great lyrics (because it's so very much on point). I really appreciate your reaction, because I've seen alot of other reactions, but you still have some points those were not mentioned in the other ones. Thank you for that.

  • @BiancaRose78
    @BiancaRose78 Рік тому

    You've been the first person that I've seen react to the "there were victims, and there were students" part. Thank you for that! I'll be back to share my mental health journey later. I have to finish watching your video! I was just so happy to see that particular reaction.