I am a 66 yr old widow and I am thrilled that you found Ren. I found him almost 2 years ago and still feel like a daily dose is needed. He & Chinchilla are just so talented. Tho I believe Ren to be that once in a lifetime talent. ❤ Please keep reacting ❤️
His music is ageless….Ren is Brilliant. On top of so much I went through as he did w/ tick bite, etc… it’s unbelievable How he kept on. Once in a life time! I Chinchilla, RENs my go to. 🎬🎶🎶🎶
Ren’s original musical base is Welsh folk music…he was dragged around to festivals by his hippie-ish parents. I think regardless of what style/genre he’s exploring, you can hear the Welsh folk storyteller coming through.
Dude your physical reaction at the peak of the song is what I feel internally when I listen to it. I like how you listen first and break it down afterwards. I can watch you react to the same song multiple times which is definitely not universal. I also like how you share your feelings openly. That makes it easier to sit back and watch your content. 100% here because of Ren, but staying because of your knowledge and exploration of the singing technique. Will be checking out more of your reactions for sure.
And… let’s not forget - this is LIVE.. with just a single guitar…. These two are just.. no words do them justice. Great reaction; grateful that you shared it with us. As others have said.. yes, this is about REN’s childhood friend Joe. We’ll be waiting for your reaction to ‘For Joe’.. as well as REN’s song for his other childhood friend who died not long after Joe (not to suicide tho) - in an accident. That song is titled Mackay - and for you, it will be a completely different adventure with Ren.. trust me!
Ren has done three songs about Joe. The first one he created was within a year of Joe's passing when Ren was younger. It's titled Freckled Angels (Also the name of the album). There are a couple video choices for the song, one of which is him playing it live. The second one is called Suicide. This one is about the subject matter of suicide in general and also about Joe. The third song he wrote, For Joe, was created 13 years later and also includes gorgeous piano playing by Ren.
This is my favorite of their collaborations, especially the live version. Their singing chemistry is off the charts. This song gives me chills every time. Just fully showcases their vocal chops.
Watching this reaction a few days after watching REN’s Kujo Beat Down makes you realise his ability to vocalise his emotions is truly something special. Whether it be grief, pain, love, whimsy or anger he really connects with it and lays it bare for all to hear - holding nothing back. The ‘power’ of Chinchilla’s voice adds so much more. Their collaborations create a visceral response in my body and mind. Thank you for your analysis it enhances my enjoyment of the performance.
I love this song. It’s haunting and the lyrics resonate with how I felt after my Mom died. Also, i don’t think this is about any mental illness. I think it’s grief…complicated grief.
When someone very close to us dies, part of us dies with them and our lives may never be the same again. We are not the same person. We forget how to 'be' because that just doesn't work any more. This is deep grief without any doubt. The whole song. Haunted by memories...
When they finally open up towards the end and go in full chest voice with "Oh oh oh I can't breathe!!" I swear my whole body just exploded with goosebumps! Ugh, it's just so GOOD.
Yes, the last part was making reference to Ren's friend Joe Hughes who took his own life aged 19. There are differing opinions about whose perspective the rest of the song is written from. Some believe that it is about Ren's struggle with grief/depression/mental illness which made him lose his sense of identity. Others think it may describe Joe's mental state prior to his suicide (I suspect the former rather than the latter)
@@LoutTsuI’ve heard this before recently and I also don’t recall hearing Ren say this. I can’t imagine Ren would assume what Joe must have felt especially not knowing he was even suffering.
I can't claim to know Ren's perspective on this song but having lost my best friend to possible suicide I definitely have felt like I lost myself when she left.
You generally find that when a male and female duet the female's voice is usually more powerful than the male vocalist. Whenever Ren and Chinchilla duet they compliment each other so well... One isn't stronger than the other... They're spot on!!! ❤️🏴🏴🇬🇧
What I find remarkable over and over again each time I return to this song is how through SO MUCH OF IT, Ren drops his lead vocals almost to a whisper (in performance and/or in post production) so that large chunks of Chinchilla's harmonies are the "lead" track, the focus. Despite not singing the melody. And yet, my brain holds the melody he's singing, closely, even where it's barely audible. It's like he conjured the song by painting all the sonic and emotional space *around* the melody line or something. Like the "negative space" of the song managing to clearly delineate the melody. He does the same thing in Chalk Outlines, a little bit, but it's How to Be Me where he just leans his whole creative/emotional weight in on it.
Remember that Ren is from Wales, the land of the bards! I believe he heard a lot of traditional and folk music as a child. Have you done the Jenny and Screech trilogy yet? That trilogy has been given the name “Bardcore”. It is storytelling in a different way. ❤️🎶
People often talk about songs giving them Goosebumps, but I don't think I've ever heard anything that gives me Goosebumps more than this. It's spectacular 😊❤. Great reaction buddy , I knew you would love it.😂
One of the things I admire most about your reactions is your ability to balance the music and the lyrics in an intelligent and thoughtful way. Some reactors are all about the music, others the lyrics, rarely do I find equal ability to do both. The other thing? How real you are-no artifice or pretense. Carry on, my friend, splendid job!
Well said, I can't listen to many reactors that have no idea what they are listening to so can not give anything useful to the piece. Other musicians mostly make the best reactors, especially where Ren and Co are concerned. Hey that was dope doesn't cut it
Your reaction was so enjoyable to me. From the very first time I saw this performance I felt like there was such an intimacy between them that I was invading something so special and private. It was almost voyeuristic. Astounding artistry.
There was a BTS video on Ren’s Patreon where they kicked the song off a couple of times and it just wasn’t jelling. Then, on what would turn out to be the ultimate take, you could see their eyes lock, their focus galvanise and they absolutely nailed it. Like, right out of the gate you could see the synergy jump 200% on that take. It was an amazing thing to see as someone who isn’t a performer, the greats need to be in that “zone” to deliver greatness. Loved the analysis and reaction Tim, thank you!
Tim, i just want to say as a 45yo truck driver and of course fellow renegade, I am absolutely loving your channel. The best feedback i can provide as to specifically why is its clear you have the expertise and share it well, but you never forget to just *feel* the music. One can be told about why something is made, but until it is truly felt does it cross from a craft to art and then a better appreciation can be had. You get it, you feel it, and we are right there with you. I hope your channel blows right up, sincerely. Regarding Ren, i think its almost time to launch you into some absolutely key material. They are often more akin to rap or bardcore (you will soon see!) so you may have less technical details to share but i have no doubt you'll enjoy the feelings and get to focus on his incredible lyricism as well. 1. The Tales trilogy has come. I'll spoil nothing but say when you browse Ren's catalog, you want the version that is longest and fully complete, it plays all three back to back in order and about 9m long. 2. You've earned an emotional break of sorts and need to see a happy, playful Ren. I suggest Losing It, Murderer, or the wonderfully cheeky Love Music Part 4. 3. Su*cide. This is why you need a relative pallet cleanse beforehand. Its beautiful and i and so many others are glad it exists. I hope the invisible onion choppers that come round when i see it leave you alone. Best wishes Tim. Your project sounds great and i hope nothing but the best for you here and elsewhere. Cheers!
Every time I listen to Ren there is one line from Hi Ren that I struggle to get past and that's 'I never write hooks for the radio', but for me he is the master of 'hooks', his melodies are such brainworms. He is such a great songwriter.
Love your insight. I think it's so cool that you're teaching your students songs from your channel. They'll either love you or hate you if you assign them this one! 😂
There is some more music coming down the pike from Ren and Chinchilla as he spent some time a few months back with her on his break from his treatments in Calgary. It's always such a joy to see your reactions. Thank you ❤
@@cathywethington5913yes, they recorded 2 songs together for Ren’s upcoming album. They performed one of the new songs together at the Secret Garden Party festival at the end of July. It was beautiful.
Great reaction as usual Tim. I keep coming back to your Ren and Chinny reactions because the emotion they portray is evident in the way you respond in the moment. It is the way I feel no matter how many times I listen and feel during their art. In this one, I am in awe of their portrayal of anguish & desperation through their notes and breathing. The way Chinchilla hums that incredibly high note before letting it out almost like she absolutely cannot hold it in any more (anguish). The way REN cries towards the sky, "Where is my God where are you!" (Desperation). You almost forget you are listening to a song and instead are feeling their very hearts beat. Like in Opera music...the raw emotion and certain notes cause the hair on the back of your neck and arms stand on end as tears well up in your eyes. It is an experience, and one we Renegades want to experience over and over again. It is cathartic and healing......it is the best drug in the world!
"I don't feel safe in my bed voices in my head talking to the dead. Fear and Sin follow me over the valleys and hills below; back home. It suffocates me...Wish I could get out of this tomb (Joe's own mind)" Ren wrote this from Joe's perspective in my opinion... You get to the end of the song and as Ren does so often he then breaks the 4th wall and says, "When HE gave up the fight, the decision he made stayed with ME for the rest of my life. I miss you so." This song as well as "Suic*de, For Joe, and Freckled Angel" are all songs about Joe, Ren's freckled angel. In the making of "For Joe" Ren was on a break from treatment in Canada. He went back home and played this song for Joe's family. I wish I could have been a fly on the wall that day... He basically donated the money made from the song 50/50 at the time. Half to the rescue respond team that is funded all from donations. The other half to Joe's family who bought an RV with the money to travel as a family. They named it, Joe...
I love your reactions and the way you explain the techniques they use. Your excitement and emotion are so lovely to see. Thank you for being you! 😊 "Over and over we go... over the hills and the valleys below." I heard a reactor recently say that during that phrasing, the melody goes up and down to match the hills and valleys. I had never realized that before, and I think it's because it's so natural for our ears to hear.
Same, for yrs my dad trained me to listen to switch ups in songs. M9st of friends can't hear what I can but I never had technical terms to describe it. So I love these videos :) I get to learn what I'm talking about 😂 I've said from the start when they work together they are ethereal, it's the only word that does this duo justice. ❤ I feel like I get pulled to a pure dimension where you can explore your vulnerability in a safe , calm, and loving bubble in your head.
Thank God for social media platforms that allow such talented artists to share their genius with the masses!! Rens vocals and lyrics pierce one's soul!! Chinchilla is phenomenal! Her vocal range is incredible- as is her ability to blend with Ren. Both are special in their own artistry and musicality... together, they are transcendental!!! 💫💞
Yes I believe the song is about Joe 😔.. The beauty of their voices together gives me chills and actually brings me to tears .. love these 2 artists! ♥️
The combination of Ren and Chinchilla is magical. Their bond is so intense. I’m always struck by how close together they were for this performance and how locked in they were to each other. They also did a busking session together - it was Chinchilla’s first time busking. There’s one video of Marvin Gaye’s Sexual Healing and another video of a Drake/Beyonce mashup - One Dance/Drunk in Love. Both are fantastic! And they have recorded two new songs together. The loss of Ren’s best friend Joe and the battles he faced on his physical and medical health journey really forced him to deal with a lot of reflection, introspection, and hard life lessons. It forced him to grow up very fast. He not only mourned the loss of Joe, but has dealt with a tremendous amount of guilt because he was the first one to arrive at the bridge, but he was just minutes too late. What’s incredible is you can witness the stages of grief in the progression of songs: Freckled Angels, How To Be Me, Su*c!de, and For Joe. Ren knows how to channel and process his emotions so powerfully through his music - which you’ve seen!
This was definitely about Joe. Man, this just never gets easier no matter how many times you hear it. I can’t even count the amount of times their voices in this, bring tears. I loved how you very gently handled this song. Thank you! 🫶🏻
I knew that this one would hit you in all the right places. Ren, of course is ALWAYS amazing. Chinchilla, is a FORCE OF NATURE. The two of them, have a connection that you can FEEL. Ren has been teasing an upcoming Chinchilla colab. THAT, should be INCREDIBLE They have BOTH grown SO much. This reaction was WONDERFUL. Your appreciation AND excitement are palpable and have a GREAT energy. You have one AMAZING day. ❤🤗❤
I agree with you that such a level of introspection is rare, especially in one so young. It's like lightning in a bottle that such an introverted intellect co-existed with him being confined to his bed for years, unable to even read or watch movies. Unable to experience physical activity and social interaction, he undertook a psychonautic exploration for which few have the innate capacity. Fewer still have the musical and poetic talent to return and communicate so much of they learned. How lucky we are to hear!
Please, please do "The Big Push-Wade in the water/Nina Simone/Trouble so hard" live busking video. I really showcases Ren's range. Love your breakdowns and much love from TX❤
A couple of absolute musts are "For Joe (live performance version)" and "Murderer (live acoustic version)"!! For Joe is a pretty emotional one, with him on piano/keyboard!
Ren now has an platform with countless followers and fans of his work, Did you know that talent attracts talent, so Ren has an lot of musically gifted friends. So what does Ren do?, he uses his platform to give other artists exposure and help them on their career. With Chinchilla, Ren said hey let's write and perform a piece together and go fifty, fifty on any profit from that song, that song was Chalk outlines and I recommend it. But trust me; from years of busking on the street's together, to where they both are now; this pair are best buddies for life.
Chinchilla hadn't tried busking until she met Ren. He convinced her to try it, despite her terror, & her first time is the "Sexual Healing" video. She said afterwards that she loved it. They originally met after Ren saw her on social media & tracked her down & asked her to work with him. Despite all of that, you're so right about their friendship, in fact Ren describes them as "musical siblings".
If you are going to listen to any of his songs about Joe, I think you need to start with “For Joe” live. All of the songs are wonderful, but For Joe you can see and hear the emotions he feels about his friend. DEFINITELY watch For Joe live FIRST! And I know that “Mackay” is an instrumental (piano) with no vocals, but I think you would appreciate that one too. His friend Callum Mackay passed a few months after Joe, and because of Joe’s passing, he couldn’t properly grieve for Callum, he just couldn’t process that grief. He said he had always wanted to do a song for Callum, but he didn’t have the words for it. Eventually the song “Mackay” just came out, while he was playing around on the piano. It may not have any lyrics or vocals, but you can hear every “unspoken” thought he has about his friend, through the piano. I swear I can almost “hear the words”. As a new RENegade, and not as a vocal instructor, you need to hear that song too.
I love "For Joe" but I think listening to "Suic*de" first adds to the power. Having heard "Freckled Angels" before can also help because I've seen many reactors not understand the significance of that part. And even "Dominoes" plays a part.The order of importance isn't the same as The Tales but more similar to Money Game. You can do the parts in any order but doing them chronologically makes it so you can pick out the way he connects the songs. It's like each song is a puzzle piece and "For Joe" is the completed picture.
I’m blown away at how tight their they are. Every crescendo, every staccato, every everything. They’re so tuned into each other. Both brilliant on their own, other-worldly together. Always love your reactions. I felt your every facial expression during the first time through.
Please please react to chinchillas song 1:5 live. She's just so stunningly real and amazing. ❤❤❤ By the way I absolutely love your channel. I've become a huge fan!! I've heard many interpretations of this song. The one that I feel meets the explanation is the first part is joes thoughts leading up to his death. The last verse by ren is the aftermath. But it could also be rens feelings of inadequacy of not saving him and the thoughts that continue to haunt him. This is why ren is a genius. Anyone can connect to his lyrics and find their own struggles in them.
I'm really loving this new style of watching the video without interruption so we can see your first non-verbal reactions, then to go back through the video systematically.
One great thing about their dynamic, specifically cutting their notes off, is it lets the echo get full respect and Ren always makes such great use of ambient sound. Same in Chalk Outlines, the beautiful decay of their voices off the walls.
Yes it was a reference. The first song about his friend Joe who committed suicide is Freckled Angel, followed by, How to be me and then For Joe. Such a sad heartbreaking story
After watching and just listening to this performance so many times I love your close analysis. I appreciate that you note when something is really hard to do. I’ll always love the effect of this incredible performance but you unlocked the gate so we can see what’s behind the magic. Your life experience explains why so many
Wonderful to watch you react & provide knowledge on this beauty. This one hits me just as powerfully now as it did the first time & I’ve seriously watched/listened/felt this 100’s of times. That 2nd crescendo 😭😭😭❤️
Can I just say, there are some songs where you hope a reactor listens completely before speaking, and this is one. There's something so much more connecting when we as reaction watchers who know what you are reacting to feel so much more connected to your experience and the song. Hope that makes sense lol. So this is an appreciation post 🙌 thank you ❤ and love from OZ
The part that crushed me the first time I heard this was at the end, the miniscule space between notes when a breeze lifts Ren's hair ever so slightly from his forehead as he says to Joe, "I miss you so."
I love these two together so much! Thanks for doing this one and for sharing some of yourself with us. If you get the chance to listen to" For Joe," it will grab your heart and not let go. It's really good.
This is ABOUT Joe. It's what Ren imagined Joe was thinking to himself and then at the very end ."When he gave up the fight...." was what Ren's thoughts are.
This reaction is brilliant! The best I’ve seen done on this song. 🔥🏆 I’ve watched this song on so many different reaction channels. You have no idea how happy it made me when your video popped up on my feed this morning. I love that for your first listen you just allowed the song to play and flow through you with barely a single pause. This is an incredibly powerful song and it drives me nuts when reactors, especially vocal coaches, have to stop every two seconds and go on and on about technique. Yeah, I know, “vocal COACH.” That said; I learned MORE from your second listen about useful vocal skills and techniques. I also picked up some neat technical terms for the changes my own ear picks up. You are a master of succinct communication when it comes to music. Your STUDENTS are SO FORTUNATE to have you as a guide to help them discover their own voice.
I think the thing I love the most in this are the human imperfections in the vocals. Passion, art, and humanity surpassed perfection. I'm anxiously anticipating your reaction to The Big Push "Swan Song". I'm not a singer and don't aspire to become one, but I love music intensely and I really appreciate your breakdowns and appreciation of Ren's art.
I love this tone range of REN. I don’t know if this is what you call chest voice vs head..I like him in the lower range. ❤❤ thank you for breaking it down . If you follow Chinchilla she has some incredible girl power songs. She said in an interview one of her influences is Beyoncé. You can her it in her “Little Girl Gone “ song.
This song was written well before fame started affecting Ren; I interpret it as primarily being about grief. When we go through loss, especially if it's traumatic, we do forget how to be ourselves for a while. We have to reinvent who we are without what we lost. It's partly about Joe, it's probably also about the loss of Ren's dreams and future. And it may be also partly about Joe's state of mind -- he forgot how to be Joe during a crucial moment that couldn't be undone.
Thanks for this one. So glad Ren & Chinchilla decided to collaborate. I never would have heard of her otherwise. That tv show whatever it was showed talent but didnt show her ability. Anyway, everyone winds up in that place eventually, young or old. And you either have help to get out or you don't. Pay it forward when you can. ❤
What a brilliant reaction - thanks so much for breaking this down for us - I think Ren would really appreciate your technical knowledge and also your visceral reaction to his lyrics and music. This is my favourite song of his and Chincilla’s and I hope that the rumours they are going to do more work together are true 🤞🏼 For Joe was recorded in the same session as this, I believe - beautiful piano from Ren on that. And also Su1cide (live). All three songs refer to his friend Joe who he lost at 19. After an interview with Knox Hill, he was inspired to write For Joe and also to add the last part of Su1cide, which also refers to him - talking about him gave him this extra boost of creativity, even though his work has been influenced by him throughout (Freckled Angels, one of his earliest songs, is also about Joe). For a completely new sound to this and the rapping from Ren, you might want to check out his recent collab with Webby 🙏🏼
Hi Tim, I look out for your reactions - love how you listened through first to feel the impact then analysed the skill and techniques of the singing - and how sometimes on a duet the singers can just merge into one. You seem to bucket loads of empathy and soul. Your students are indeed lucky to have you as a guide. I have subscribed so I do not miss your reactions that bring that special insight an expert ear has. I am in my mid-60's and discovered Ren a few years ago. I have always been drawn to artists who have a voice and something to say about the human condition. Those who can perform and communicate in song this well do not come around that often. My respect to you.
There has been a batch of new reactors even just before all the new stuff from Ren. And I have completely forgot that you haven't done a few important ones.
YES YES YES! I told you this performance would blow your mind! I've heard this song hundreds of times and it still makes me tear up. The fact that it's in 6/8 adds that lilting feeling, on top of the eerie feeling of the harmonies, which helps make this song incredibly haunting and beautiful. So glad you finally did this!
You did Fred again ,I knew that. But TROUBLES acoustic version. Is some great ren singing... Ren and Sam Tomkins busking the man's world mash up and the other video that pairs with it that has no diggety mash up.... THOSE 3 WILL BLOW YOU AWAY!
I love every one of your Ren reactions.. Every one so very different, yet every one provocative and emotive. The boy is a genius, and im thrilled to be exploring his nusic with you ❤
I actually asked about him and chinchillas writing during a patreon Q&A. He said that they’ll write their own lyrics but make suggestions for each other, and that’s the writing process is very collaborate btw them :)
Thank you for covering more, Ren. I love their facial expressions; they are very expressive and add to the music. I love how Ren is looking up to the sky when singing about where god is. After watching Kujo Beat down and then going to this its just like WOW, how diverse Ren is. I do hope you continue down the rabbit hole.
For anyone unaware, Chinchilla will be doing her first American show soon in LA if anyone is interested. 💜
Ahhh!!!
And I'm goin to be there❣️
Amazing and very convenient for me. I live in LA
I saw that too! Maybe she will make her way up to nor cal.?
That's awesome news, I love that for her
You MUST do Chinchillas song FINGERS the live one for hunger tv. You will not be the same person after that
I believe he did do fingers. It's in his playlist for ren and friends. ❤
Check the playlist “ Ren & Friends “. It’s there along with Chalk Outlines.❤
🙏🏼✨
And Chinchilla's cut you off ❤
I am a 66 yr old widow and I am thrilled that you found Ren. I found him almost 2 years ago and still feel like a daily dose is needed. He & Chinchilla are just so talented. Tho I believe Ren to be that once in a lifetime talent. ❤ Please keep reacting ❤️
His music is ageless….Ren is Brilliant. On top of so much I went through as he did w/ tick bite, etc… it’s unbelievable How he kept on. Once in a life time! I Chinchilla, RENs my go to. 🎬🎶🎶🎶
Beautiful thank you for sharing! 💛✨🙏🏼
This reaction was amazing. This song is everything! Appreciate u my friend xx
Ren’s original musical base is Welsh folk music…he was dragged around to festivals by his hippie-ish parents. I think regardless of what style/genre he’s exploring, you can hear the Welsh folk storyteller coming through.
That’s it!
Dude your physical reaction at the peak of the song is what I feel internally when I listen to it. I like how you listen first and break it down afterwards. I can watch you react to the same song multiple times which is definitely not universal. I also like how you share your feelings openly. That makes it easier to sit back and watch your content. 100% here because of Ren, but staying because of your knowledge and exploration of the singing technique. Will be checking out more of your reactions for sure.
I appreciate this a lot. 👊🏼🔥
And… let’s not forget - this is LIVE.. with just a single guitar…. These two are just.. no words do them justice. Great reaction; grateful that you shared it with us. As others have said.. yes, this is about REN’s childhood friend Joe. We’ll be waiting for your reaction to ‘For Joe’.. as well as REN’s song for his other childhood friend who died not long after Joe (not to suicide tho) - in an accident. That song is titled Mackay - and for you, it will be a completely different adventure with Ren.. trust me!
Ren has done three songs about Joe. The first one he created was within a year of Joe's passing when Ren was younger. It's titled Freckled Angels (Also the name of the album). There are a couple video choices for the song, one of which is him playing it live. The second one is called Suicide. This one is about the subject matter of suicide in general and also about Joe.
The third song he wrote, For Joe, was created 13 years later and also includes gorgeous piano playing by Ren.
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This is one of THE best live performances I have seen in years, so real and raw.
This is my favorite of their collaborations, especially the live version. Their singing chemistry is off the charts. This song gives me chills every time. Just fully showcases their vocal chops.
Watching this reaction a few days after watching REN’s Kujo Beat Down makes you realise his ability to vocalise his emotions is truly something special. Whether it be grief, pain, love, whimsy or anger he really connects with it and lays it bare for all to hear - holding nothing back. The ‘power’ of Chinchilla’s voice adds so much more. Their collaborations create a visceral response in my body and mind. Thank you for your analysis it enhances my enjoyment of the performance.
Truth!
I love this song. It’s haunting and the lyrics resonate with how I felt after my Mom died. Also, i don’t think this is about any mental illness. I think it’s grief…complicated grief.
💛💛💛💛💛💛💛💛💛🙏🏼✨
Oh, that's a great way to put it... complicated grief
When someone very close to us dies, part of us dies with them and our lives may never be the same again. We are not the same person. We forget how to 'be' because that just doesn't work any more. This is deep grief without any doubt. The whole song. Haunted by memories...
When they finally open up towards the end and go in full chest voice with "Oh oh oh I can't breathe!!" I swear my whole body just exploded with goosebumps! Ugh, it's just so GOOD.
Yes!
Yes, the last part was making reference to Ren's friend Joe Hughes who took his own life aged 19. There are differing opinions about whose perspective the rest of the song is written from. Some believe that it is about Ren's struggle with grief/depression/mental illness which made him lose his sense of identity. Others think it may describe Joe's mental state prior to his suicide (I suspect the former rather than the latter)
He actually said in an interview that the beginning was the POV of Joe and the last bit was Ren's
@@angelluhman9006 Do you recall which interview? I've never heard him talk about this song. (Other than the IG post when he performed it.) Thanks!
@@LoutTsuI’ve heard this before recently and I also don’t recall hearing Ren say this. I can’t imagine Ren would assume what Joe must have felt especially not knowing he was even suffering.
I can't claim to know Ren's perspective on this song but having lost my best friend to possible suicide I definitely have felt like I lost myself when she left.
@@angelluhman9006 Oh did he ? I don't think I have seen that one. Thank you
You generally find that when a male and female duet the female's voice is usually more powerful than the male vocalist.
Whenever Ren and Chinchilla duet they compliment each other so well... One isn't stronger than the other... They're spot on!!! ❤️🏴🏴🇬🇧
What I find remarkable over and over again each time I return to this song is how through SO MUCH OF IT, Ren drops his lead vocals almost to a whisper (in performance and/or in post production) so that large chunks of Chinchilla's harmonies are the "lead" track, the focus. Despite not singing the melody.
And yet, my brain holds the melody he's singing, closely, even where it's barely audible.
It's like he conjured the song by painting all the sonic and emotional space *around* the melody line or something. Like the "negative space" of the song managing to clearly delineate the melody.
He does the same thing in Chalk Outlines, a little bit, but it's How to Be Me where he just leans his whole creative/emotional weight in on it.
Great observation!
Remember that Ren is from Wales, the land of the bards! I believe he heard a lot of traditional and folk music as a child. Have you done the Jenny and Screech trilogy yet? That trilogy has been given the name “Bardcore”. It is storytelling in a different way. ❤️🎶
Brilliant idea to have your students learn songs that the reaction community love. I think it's going to do well! ❤
Excellent!!
People often talk about songs giving them Goosebumps, but I don't think I've ever heard anything that gives me Goosebumps more than this. It's spectacular 😊❤. Great reaction buddy , I knew you would love it.😂
One of the things I admire most about your reactions is your ability to balance the music and the lyrics in an intelligent and thoughtful way. Some reactors are all about the music, others the lyrics, rarely do I find equal ability to do both. The other thing? How real you are-no artifice or pretense. Carry on, my friend, splendid job!
Appreciate this, 🙏🏼
Well said, I can't listen to many reactors that have no idea what they are listening to so can not give anything useful to the piece. Other musicians mostly make the best reactors, especially where Ren and Co are concerned. Hey that was dope doesn't cut it
Yes, it was about Joe. He wrote a song called Suicide that is so raw - you need to be mentally prepared, especially for the ending 😢
And it’s even better when followed by “For Joe “.
Your reaction was so enjoyable to me.
From the very first time I saw this performance I felt like there was such an intimacy between them that I was invading something so special and private. It was almost voyeuristic.
Astounding artistry.
🙏🏼✨
There was a BTS video on Ren’s Patreon where they kicked the song off a couple of times and it just wasn’t jelling. Then, on what would turn out to be the ultimate take, you could see their eyes lock, their focus galvanise and they absolutely nailed it. Like, right out of the gate you could see the synergy jump 200% on that take. It was an amazing thing to see as someone who isn’t a performer, the greats need to be in that “zone” to deliver greatness.
Loved the analysis and reaction Tim, thank you!
It's about grief the loss of the pre-you along with the person who died and the need to find a new you.
Best and most succinct explanation 👍🏻
Chinchilla's control of her voice is amazing here. She has such a Powerful voice! Yet, she brings it without overwhelming Ren. Beautiful.
Tim, i just want to say as a 45yo truck driver and of course fellow renegade, I am absolutely loving your channel. The best feedback i can provide as to specifically why is its clear you have the expertise and share it well, but you never forget to just *feel* the music. One can be told about why something is made, but until it is truly felt does it cross from a craft to art and then a better appreciation can be had. You get it, you feel it, and we are right there with you. I hope your channel blows right up, sincerely.
Regarding Ren, i think its almost time to launch you into some absolutely key material. They are often more akin to rap or bardcore (you will soon see!) so you may have less technical details to share but i have no doubt you'll enjoy the feelings and get to focus on his incredible lyricism as well.
1. The Tales trilogy has come. I'll spoil nothing but say when you browse Ren's catalog, you want the version that is longest and fully complete, it plays all three back to back in order and about 9m long.
2. You've earned an emotional break of sorts and need to see a happy, playful Ren. I suggest Losing It, Murderer, or the wonderfully cheeky Love Music Part 4.
3. Su*cide. This is why you need a relative pallet cleanse beforehand. Its beautiful and i and so many others are glad it exists. I hope the invisible onion choppers that come round when i see it leave you alone.
Best wishes Tim. Your project sounds great and i hope nothing but the best for you here and elsewhere. Cheers!
I absolutely love this thoughtful comment. Wonderful recommendations as well. Best to you and thanks for being there on this journey with me. 🙏🏼✨
@@deadsiderwashere And don’t forget Uninvited. 🤣
You can feel the pressure build up in Chinchilla’s voice! When she releases it is epic!
It feels so intimate - almost like "should i be watching"! these 2 are just so beautiful together
Man i forgot how much this song wrecks me 🥺 Amazing performance, and thanks for the great analysis
Yeah, I feel the same about this one
Every time I listen to Ren there is one line from Hi Ren that I struggle to get past and that's 'I never write hooks for the radio', but for me he is the master of 'hooks', his melodies are such brainworms. He is such a great songwriter.
He didn't say he didn't write hooks, he said he doesn't write them for the radio. Big difference.
Agreed!
If you want to know more about Ren and his past, watch his story in the 8 chapters on his second channel RenMakesStuff ❤
Truly moving, inspirational and emotional. He's an amazing young man ❤
I have probably watched over 100 reaction videos to this song and this one is the best. Thank you
Agreed
Thank you!✨🙏🏼
Love your insight. I think it's so cool that you're teaching your students songs from your channel. They'll either love you or hate you if you assign them this one! 😂
Hahaha!!! Truth. I know they’ll love it tho…
There is some more music coming down the pike from Ren and Chinchilla as he spent some time a few months back with her on his break from his treatments in Calgary.
It's always such a joy to see your reactions. Thank you ❤
Oh, yay! I've been hoping she would be featured in the upcoming album
@@cathywethington5913yes, they recorded 2 songs together for Ren’s upcoming album. They performed one of the new songs together at the Secret Garden Party festival at the end of July. It was beautiful.
Ooh amazing news - thanks for letting us know! 😀
Great reaction as usual Tim. I keep coming back to your Ren and Chinny reactions because the emotion they portray is evident in the way you respond in the moment. It is the way I feel no matter how many times I listen and feel during their art. In this one, I am in awe of their portrayal of anguish & desperation through their notes and breathing. The way Chinchilla hums that incredibly high note before letting it out almost like she absolutely cannot hold it in any more (anguish). The way REN cries towards the sky, "Where is my God where are you!" (Desperation). You almost forget you are listening to a song and instead are feeling their very hearts beat. Like in Opera music...the raw emotion and certain notes cause the hair on the back of your neck and arms stand on end as tears well up in your eyes. It is an experience, and one we Renegades want to experience over and over again. It is cathartic and healing......it is the best drug in the world!
Hearing this song for the first time was one of the most impactful reactions I’ve ever done. It’s still affecting me.
"I don't feel safe in my bed voices in my head talking to the dead. Fear and Sin follow me over the valleys and hills below; back home. It suffocates me...Wish I could get out of this tomb (Joe's own mind)" Ren wrote this from Joe's perspective in my opinion... You get to the end of the song and as Ren does so often he then breaks the 4th wall and says, "When HE gave up the fight, the decision he made stayed with ME for the rest of my life. I miss you so."
This song as well as "Suic*de, For Joe, and Freckled Angel" are all songs about Joe, Ren's freckled angel. In the making of "For Joe" Ren was on a break from treatment in Canada. He went back home and played this song for Joe's family. I wish I could have been a fly on the wall that day... He basically donated the money made from the song 50/50 at the time. Half to the rescue respond team that is funded all from donations. The other half to Joe's family who bought an RV with the money to travel as a family. They named it, Joe...
❤
Beautiful thank you for sharing.
I love your reactions and the way you explain the techniques they use. Your excitement and emotion are so lovely to see. Thank you for being you! 😊 "Over and over we go... over the hills and the valleys below." I heard a reactor recently say that during that phrasing, the melody goes up and down to match the hills and valleys. I had never realized that before, and I think it's because it's so natural for our ears to hear.
Same, for yrs my dad trained me to listen to switch ups in songs. M9st of friends can't hear what I can but I never had technical terms to describe it. So I love these videos :) I get to learn what I'm talking about 😂
I've said from the start when they work together they are ethereal, it's the only word that does this duo justice. ❤ I feel like I get pulled to a pure dimension where you can explore your vulnerability in a safe , calm, and loving bubble in your head.
I agree with ethereal for sure.
Thank God for social media platforms that allow such talented artists to share their genius with the masses!! Rens vocals and lyrics pierce one's soul!! Chinchilla is phenomenal! Her vocal range is incredible- as is her ability to blend with Ren. Both are special in their own artistry and musicality... together, they are transcendental!!! 💫💞
Beautifully said!
Yes I believe the song is about Joe 😔.. The beauty of their voices together gives me chills and actually brings me to tears .. love these 2 artists! ♥️
The combination of Ren and Chinchilla is magical. Their bond is so intense. I’m always struck by how close together they were for this performance and how locked in they were to each other. They also did a busking session together - it was Chinchilla’s first time busking. There’s one video of Marvin Gaye’s Sexual Healing and another video of a Drake/Beyonce mashup - One Dance/Drunk in Love. Both are fantastic! And they have recorded two new songs together.
The loss of Ren’s best friend Joe and the battles he faced on his physical and medical health journey really forced him to deal with a lot of reflection, introspection, and hard life lessons. It forced him to grow up very fast.
He not only mourned the loss of Joe, but has dealt with a tremendous amount of guilt because he was the first one to arrive at the bridge, but he was just minutes too late. What’s incredible is you can witness the stages of grief in the progression of songs: Freckled Angels, How To Be Me, Su*c!de, and For Joe. Ren knows how to channel and process his emotions so powerfully through his music - which you’ve seen!
Liking your Ren and Chinchilla reactions … the Sam Tompkins section of the rabbit hole is also worth a dive in 😃
More of a rabbit-warren, than a rabbit-hole😊
This has been labeled THE GOAT of duets... I agree with that sentiment!
i agree
Nice one - you really should do Chinchilla's 1:5 (live) soon!
Coming!
@@TimWelchVocalStudiocan't wait.... That will be epic❤❤❤❤
@@TimWelchVocalStudioyou will love it!!!!!the live is fantastic ❤
That one breaks me every time 🤍😭
This was definitely about Joe.
Man, this just never gets easier no matter how many times you hear it. I can’t even count the amount of times their voices in this, bring tears. I loved how you very gently handled this song. Thank you! 🫶🏻
I knew that this one would hit you in all the right places.
Ren, of course is ALWAYS amazing.
Chinchilla, is a FORCE OF NATURE.
The two of them, have a connection that you can FEEL.
Ren has been teasing an upcoming Chinchilla colab.
THAT, should be INCREDIBLE
They have BOTH grown SO much.
This reaction was WONDERFUL. Your appreciation AND excitement are palpable and have a GREAT energy.
You have one AMAZING day.
❤🤗❤
✨🙏🏼
I agree with you that such a level of introspection is rare, especially in one so young. It's like lightning in a bottle that such an introverted intellect co-existed with him being confined to his bed for years, unable to even read or watch movies. Unable to experience physical activity and social interaction, he undertook a psychonautic exploration for which few have the innate capacity. Fewer still have the musical and poetic talent to return and communicate so much of they learned. How lucky we are to hear!
Agreed!
Ren does a live performance For Joe for his departed friend. Its heart wrenching but phenomenal.
It’s about Joe
When you get to “For Joe”be ready to cry
Three amazing humans
Ren, Chinchilla, Tim
Thank you brother
🙏
Please, please do "The Big Push-Wade in the water/Nina Simone/Trouble so hard" live busking video. I really showcases Ren's range. Love your breakdowns and much love from TX❤
On the list!
@@TimWelchVocalStudio I can't wait to see how much you enjoy it! It is always nice to see professionals appreciating Ren!
I truly love listening to knowledgeable passionate people talk about what excites them. Excellent reaction.
A couple of absolute musts are "For Joe (live performance version)" and "Murderer (live acoustic version)"!!
For Joe is a pretty emotional one, with him on piano/keyboard!
Ren now has an platform with countless followers and fans of his work, Did you know that talent attracts talent, so Ren has an lot of musically gifted friends. So what does Ren do?, he uses his platform to give other artists exposure and help them on their career. With Chinchilla, Ren said hey let's write and perform a piece together and go fifty, fifty on any profit from that song, that song was Chalk outlines and I recommend it. But trust me; from years of busking on the street's together, to where they both are now; this pair are best buddies for life.
Love that.
Chinchilla hadn't tried busking until she met Ren. He convinced her to try it, despite her terror, & her first time is the "Sexual Healing" video. She said afterwards that she loved it. They originally met after Ren saw her on social media & tracked her down & asked her to work with him. Despite all of that, you're so right about their friendship, in fact Ren describes them as "musical siblings".
If you are going to listen to any of his songs about Joe, I think you need to start with “For Joe” live. All of the songs are wonderful, but For Joe you can see and hear the emotions he feels about his friend. DEFINITELY watch For Joe live FIRST! And I know that “Mackay” is an instrumental (piano) with no vocals, but I think you would appreciate that one too. His friend Callum Mackay passed a few months after Joe, and because of Joe’s passing, he couldn’t properly grieve for Callum, he just couldn’t process that grief. He said he had always wanted to do a song for Callum, but he didn’t have the words for it. Eventually the song “Mackay” just came out, while he was playing around on the piano. It may not have any lyrics or vocals, but you can hear every “unspoken” thought he has about his friend, through the piano. I swear I can almost “hear the words”. As a new RENegade, and not as a vocal instructor, you need to hear that song too.
I love "For Joe" but I think listening to "Suic*de" first adds to the power. Having heard "Freckled Angels" before can also help because I've seen many reactors not understand the significance of that part. And even "Dominoes" plays a part.The order of importance isn't the same as The Tales but more similar to Money Game. You can do the parts in any order but doing them chronologically makes it so you can pick out the way he connects the songs. It's like each song is a puzzle piece and "For Joe" is the completed picture.
Seeing your reaction to the blending of their voices is beautiful.
I've never listened to Ren and Chinchilla and not gotten chills 🫠They are so incredible together❤
I’m blown away at how tight their they are. Every crescendo, every staccato, every everything. They’re so tuned into each other. Both brilliant on their own, other-worldly together.
Always love your reactions. I felt your every facial expression during the first time through.
Please please react to chinchillas song 1:5 live. She's just so stunningly real and amazing. ❤❤❤
By the way I absolutely love your channel. I've become a huge fan!!
I've heard many interpretations of this song. The one that I feel meets the explanation is the first part is joes thoughts leading up to his death. The last verse by ren is the aftermath.
But it could also be rens feelings of inadequacy of not saving him and the thoughts that continue to haunt him.
This is why ren is a genius. Anyone can connect to his lyrics and find their own struggles in them.
Aww thanks! That one’s coming soon!
I'll be here for it absolutely!!@@TimWelchVocalStudio
@@TimWelchVocalStudio it can’t come too soon, I am excited for you, I think you might become a chilli bean too…..
I'm really loving this new style of watching the video without interruption so we can see your first non-verbal reactions, then to go back through the video systematically.
Thank you, fellow Renegades helped me figure it out.
One great thing about their dynamic, specifically cutting their notes off, is it lets the echo get full respect and Ren always makes such great use of ambient sound. Same in Chalk Outlines, the beautiful decay of their voices off the walls.
Well said!
Yes it was a reference. The first song about his friend Joe who committed suicide is Freckled Angel, followed by, How to be me and then For Joe. Such a sad heartbreaking story
After watching and just listening to this performance so many times I love your close analysis. I appreciate that you note when something is really hard to do.
I’ll always love the effect of this incredible performance but you unlocked the gate so we can see what’s behind the magic.
Your life experience explains why so many
Wonderful to watch you react & provide knowledge on this beauty. This one hits me just as powerfully now as it did the first time & I’ve seriously watched/listened/felt this 100’s of times. That 2nd crescendo 😭😭😭❤️
I love how the humming explodes to emphasize not being able to breathe
This song sends shivers down my spine!
I love the music energy between Ren and Chinchilla
Can I just say, there are some songs where you hope a reactor listens completely before speaking, and this is one. There's something so much more connecting when we as reaction watchers who know what you are reacting to feel so much more connected to your experience and the song. Hope that makes sense lol. So this is an appreciation post 🙌 thank you ❤ and love from OZ
Thank you 🙏🏼
The part that crushed me the first time I heard this was at the end, the miniscule space between notes when a breeze lifts Ren's hair ever so slightly from his forehead as he says to Joe, "I miss you so."
I love these two together so much! Thanks for doing this one and for sharing some of yourself with us. If you get the chance to listen to" For Joe," it will grab your heart and not let go. It's really good.
This is one of my favorite songs period. Emotions & chills every time. Thanks for the reaction. 😊
This is ABOUT Joe. It's what Ren imagined Joe was thinking to himself and then at the very end ."When he gave up the fight...." was what Ren's thoughts are.
This reaction is brilliant! The best I’ve seen done on this song. 🔥🏆
I’ve watched this song on so many different reaction channels. You have no idea how happy it made me when your video popped up on my feed this morning.
I love that for your first listen you just allowed the song to play and flow through you with barely a single pause.
This is an incredibly powerful song and it drives me nuts when reactors, especially vocal coaches, have to stop every two seconds and go on and on about technique. Yeah, I know, “vocal COACH.”
That said; I learned MORE from your second listen about useful vocal skills and techniques. I also picked up some neat technical terms for the changes my own ear picks up.
You are a master of succinct communication when it comes to music.
Your STUDENTS are SO FORTUNATE to have you as a guide to help them discover their own voice.
Your reactions+technical analysis have evolved so quickly to the best I have found... and I find a lot!
I appreciate that, it’s because of thoughtful comments from all of you helping me do this better!✨🙏🏼
I think the thing I love the most in this are the human imperfections in the vocals. Passion, art, and humanity surpassed perfection.
I'm anxiously anticipating your reaction to The Big Push "Swan Song".
I'm not a singer and don't aspire to become one, but I love music intensely and I really appreciate your breakdowns and appreciation of Ren's art.
I love this tone range of REN. I don’t know if this is what you call chest voice vs head..I like him in the lower range. ❤❤ thank you for breaking it down . If you follow Chinchilla she has some incredible girl power songs. She said in an interview one of her influences is Beyoncé. You can her it in her “Little Girl Gone “ song.
This song was written well before fame started affecting Ren; I interpret it as primarily being about grief. When we go through loss, especially if it's traumatic, we do forget how to be ourselves for a while. We have to reinvent who we are without what we lost. It's partly about Joe, it's probably also about the loss of Ren's dreams and future. And it may be also partly about Joe's state of mind -- he forgot how to be Joe during a crucial moment that couldn't be undone.
Forgot to mention a MUST SEE, Chinchilla LIVE for Hunger TV, it is something a vocal teacher will want to hear. It's called "FINGERS"
Already reacted to it! Check REN playlist of mine.
Right?! I really enjoy your ren-actions. I'm always chasing that first listen feel. You and Chris Lepie help us see WHY it's so good.
Much love ❤️ Sue
Thanks for this one.
So glad Ren & Chinchilla decided to collaborate. I never would have heard of her otherwise. That tv show whatever it was showed talent but didnt show her ability.
Anyway, everyone winds up in that place eventually, young or old. And you either have help to get out or you don't. Pay it forward when you can. ❤
Love that. 💛✨🙏🏼
the raw behind the scenes footage of this take is amazing.
Thank you for a respectful, insightful and heartfelt reaction to this beauty-full haunting song
I have to say you are fast becoming one of my favourite reactors 🎶🎵🎶
Aww I appreciate that, thanks so much! ✨👊🏼
1000 views of this and it is still as powerful, beautiful, and deep as ever. Love your reaction.
🙏🏼✨
What a brilliant reaction - thanks so much for breaking this down for us - I think Ren would really appreciate your technical knowledge and also your visceral reaction to his lyrics and music. This is my favourite song of his and Chincilla’s and I hope that the rumours they are going to do more work together are true 🤞🏼 For Joe was recorded in the same session as this, I believe - beautiful piano from Ren on that. And also Su1cide (live). All three songs refer to his friend Joe who he lost at 19. After an interview with Knox Hill, he was inspired to write For Joe and also to add the last part of Su1cide, which also refers to him - talking about him gave him this extra boost of creativity, even though his work has been influenced by him throughout (Freckled Angels, one of his earliest songs, is also about Joe). For a completely new sound to this and the rapping from Ren, you might want to check out his recent collab with Webby 🙏🏼
Thank you for this!
Hi Tim, I look out for your reactions - love how you listened through first to feel the impact then analysed the skill and techniques of the singing - and how sometimes on a duet the singers can just merge into one. You seem to bucket loads of empathy and soul. Your students are indeed lucky to have you as a guide. I have subscribed so I do not miss your reactions that bring that special insight an expert ear has. I am in my mid-60's and discovered Ren a few years ago. I have always been drawn to artists who have a voice and something to say about the human condition. Those who can perform and communicate in song this well do not come around that often. My respect to you.
Thanks for this and for being on this journey with me. 🙏🏼✨💛
I love how this song is celebrating an anniversary. REN saved my life over a yr ago now. This song hits so hard still.
💛💛✨✨🙏🏼🙏🏼
The BTS on this is a marvel in it's simplicity, but epic in it's intricate attention to detail.
agree... shows the live raw footage and i believe it is this take
This is the duet of all duets!
Definitely standing O performance!❤❤❤
There has been a batch of new reactors even just before all the new stuff from Ren. And I have completely forgot that you haven't done a few important ones.
YES YES YES! I told you this performance would blow your mind! I've heard this song hundreds of times and it still makes me tear up. The fact that it's in 6/8 adds that lilting feeling, on top of the eerie feeling of the harmonies, which helps make this song incredibly haunting and beautiful. So glad you finally did this!
It’s still going through my mind today.
I heard Ren say one of his favorite authors is Kurt Vonnegut. I read him years ago and Ren read it the past 10 years
You did Fred again ,I knew that. But TROUBLES acoustic version. Is some great ren singing... Ren and Sam Tomkins busking the man's world mash up and the other video that pairs with it that has no diggety mash up.... THOSE 3 WILL BLOW YOU AWAY!
That intro is very reminiscent of Delibes's Lakmé/Flower Duet (aka, "British Airway theme"), isn't it? And that counterpoint, OMG !!
Love to Ren and your reactionTim . Ren writes all his own work Ren is in pain from the lose of his best friend Joe. Love Ren
I love your reaction and breakdowns❤ this song gives me goosebumps and I always get teary eyed ❤
Chinchilla expresses music with her whole body, it's beautiful. You gonna love Fingers (live for Hunger TV) and also 1:5
He's reacted to Fingers, check it out in the Ren and friends playlist 😊
✨🙏🏼
@@JohnnyColello Oh nice! I missed that! Thanks!
I love every one of your Ren reactions.. Every one so very different, yet every one provocative and emotive. The boy is a genius, and im thrilled to be exploring his nusic with you ❤
🙏🏼
Ren said he has 2 more collabs with Chinchilla coming soon
❗️❗️❗️
I absolutely love these two artists working together. Chinchilla's voice is just exquisite, goosebumps & tears. This song is heartbreaking.
Pure ART, pure pleasure.
Thanks
I actually asked about him and chinchillas writing during a patreon Q&A. He said that they’ll write their own lyrics but make suggestions for each other, and that’s the writing process is very collaborate btw them :)
That’s awesome!
Thank you for covering more, Ren. I love their facial expressions; they are very expressive and add to the music. I love how Ren is looking up to the sky when singing about where god is. After watching Kujo Beat down and then going to this its just like WOW, how diverse Ren is. I do hope you continue down the rabbit hole.