Ren - Halftime (Nas Retake) - Grading Scale Reacts

Donate, or check out our Almost Joking and Grading Scale Reacts Merch!
linktr.ee/imalmostjokingpod
Craig Smith on KZbin: @SincereLife7 | Dash on KZbin: @dashdagreatmusic9108
Tune in to clips of our podcast, I'm Almost Joking Podcast on Wednesdays and Thursdays.
View the I'm Almost Joking Podcast:
• I'm Almost Joking Podcast
We upload react videos every weekend, Friday through Sunday.
View our Grading Scale React playlist here:
• Grading Scale Reacts
Subscribe and turn on notifications to never miss our podcast clips and react videos!
#gradingscalereacts #gradingscale #react #radio22 #ren

[@michaelphipps8647]

Ren killed this beat! Straight 🔥 🔥 🔥

[@Deathbruce]

Lost my subscribe on this due to you being stuck in your old views. This was not meant to be Nas. It was meant to have fun and pay tribute

[@WTF34720]

You even missed and dissed the sailor/pirate/wave bars - Nas used to be called Kid Wave. It is saturated with homage you didn’t even pick up on. The whole point of this was to show respect to Nas, he has not monetised it, or his other retakes. I respect we all have our own opinions and that you aint tryna be yes men. However you missed all the deeper references which imo (and not said with disrespect, just MY opinion) tells me REN’s of the game runs through his veins a lot more than it does yours. It definitely came across like you had made your minds up before pressing play, which evidently left your minds very closed off. Again, no disrespect, just one persons opinion, as you expressed yours

[@docdurdin]

You just called the first part bad when that was a salute to Big L, the concept was a salute to all the past rappers and to Nas.

[@67goat]

Interested to know what parts you found corny? The first part that was in the alley was a nod to Nas' opening without copying it. The next stretch of lyrics (China without rice, etc...) was his take on Big L lyrics. Then he talked about how he uses his pain to sell his music. That lead into the pirate bars, which were a nod to the drop date being pi day. Once he crosses the street, he does the couple lines about not caring about other opinions, but then goes into the nuclear scheme which is both a nod to his own song "Life is Funny" and also a nod to the reactor community blowing him up. Which leads into the fast food bars that tie into his song "Uninvited" and transitions him into the bars about paying respect to the craft. Then you get into the fast bars that are basically showing off (more references to his own music) and is a little cheeky before the final play on Nas lines at the very end. I totally get that when a song is important to the listener, that any cover, remix, retake may fall flat with the listener because the bar is high. Not calling out you not liking it at all. Personal taste is personal taste. But you didn't really say what parts you found corny, so I'm just trying to understand your point of view on that.

[@AlmostJokingPod]

I respect your opinion too bro. I love debating hip hop lol i wish all ya can tap when we’re live because we actually have these conversations with our subs. To put it simply i thought all of it was kinda corny… the flow i didn’t like… the cadence i didn’t like.. talking about pirates and science on halftime i didn’t like. Like we said it ain’t that he was wack or it was trash. It’s just corny…every artist makes corny songs. We both used to rap too. Most times though, the fans just don’t hear alot of the most corny things artists make. You can’t listen to Genesis and then hear this and tell me its on the same level. That’s ok though can’t hit them all

[@67goat]

@@AlmostJokingPod I disagree that one can't consider those two songs to be on the same level. This retake actually has more layered lyrics with more doubles and triples than Genesis. I will agree that the storyline of the lyrics for this are not as straight forward as Genesis and requires more reference and background knowledge. I see the pirates part to be more of an Eater egg than corny. As for the science, how would you shout out the KZbin reactor community without directly referencing them? As for the flow and cadence, this was a shoutout to old school rap, and I think it fits that style well (other than the fact that he never leaves breaks in his lyrics like they would have in the 90s). As for joining lives, I'm just not up at that time. I miss all the good stuff.

[@AlmostJokingPod]

@67goat i hear you bro. To each its own. Its room in the world for all types of artist. Sometimes i want complex sometimes want simple. I don’t want to have to study science to enjoy rap 😂 especially over a classic like half time. To each its own though. I’ll just skip and go back to genesis 😂

[@67goat]

@@AlmostJokingPod I get that, but the science stuff wasn't about science at all. It was a metaphor for you and all the other reactors that get his music out to your fans that wouldn't see him otherwise. The pi day thing definitely is a little geeky though,

[@67goat]

@@AlmostJokingPod Also, I'm sure you already do, but ignore people that talk smack or are mean about whether you picked up a bar or appreciated it. Ren is about people lifting each other up, not tearing them down. That includes when people have differing opinions and tastes. I feel like those people really aren't Ren fans, as they obviously don't understand his message.

[@lostcomicjunkie2724]

He was smart enough to actually use the most liked comments in the original Nas vid. "Feminist with no one to complain to", China without Rice, Bible without Christ...Big L. Those were straight comments from the questions that were asked by Nas. This was all flowers. Why don't you guys slow it down and actually dissect the lyrics.

[@rogerwilco6377]

Probly couldn't understand half the rhymes

[@86billionneurons]

The classic was corny if you going down that road, FOOLS!😂😂😂

[@quad-sci]

Wow the respect Ren shows to Nas here is immense . I unsubscribed from this channel as I can now see how smug and self-righteous these pair are. They never even listened to the lyrics.

[@alanrnmahler]

Totally agree did not pick up on half of what was said.

[@Hoop_23]

Only corny thing is middle aged nobodies talking crap about someone with immense talent.

[@AlmostJokingPod]

Why you watching middle aged men reaction to a hip hop song from THEIR era cornball? 😂

[@suesee4855]

Careful. We all have a right to our opinion. Much love ❤️ Sue

[@AlmostJokingPod]

@suesee9619 some people think if you dont see things how they do everybody stupid. Narcissism runs rampant these days

[@ChrisLawton66]

😮 unnecessary

[@milesplatting1]

Which one is the rapper and which the comedian? Hard to tell. They're both funny. Funny in the head.

[@robmarar]

That whole "Corny as hell" comment pissed me off bro. I truly believe you began this entire reaction with closed ears because he's rapping on a Nas beat, and that sealed his fate before he even rapped his 1st bar. Ren's pen was on point with every line including the ones that went over your heads. I need to point out that this entire retake by Ren is an overall homage not just to Nas but to rap game in general and If you look closer at the bars and Ren's structure more carefully then you'll start to notice the true brilliance & how deep they truly are. Ren proves he's a student of this game with intricate bars throughout (which you didn't seem to impressed with). I'll give you an example from the beginning of this retake that went over not only your head but almost every other reactor as well. (BTW I'm a BIG old school hip hop head) The whole What's Rap without Ren scheme is a callback/homage to Big L (R.I.P) & the 1st track on his last album "The Big Picture". Big L recorded it before his murder & was set to be released in '99 but delayed until 2000 due to his murder. Here's Big L's bars 🔥🔥 What's this motherfucking rap game without L? That's like jewels without ice That's like China without rice Or the Holy Bible without Christ Or the Bulls without Mike Or crackheads without pipes The Village without dykes Or hockey games without fights All of Ren's retakes are of Ren showing some love to the original artist as well as appreciation for the genre itself. You can't ignore that Ren's lyricism is top notch and if you do then your grasp of the English language is limited. The connective tissue between schemes as well as his vocabulary is on point. Some of the words he uses are "high brow" but language is powerful and if you're not learning a new word every day then your power will always be limited. Here are the bars to Ren's Halftime, just give them a closer look my brothers and then get back to me and tell me I'm wrong. "Let loose in the booth and I came to introduce the High proof juice like a flaming sambuca Halftime 3-point hoop, hallelujah Abused oblongata and I severed the medulla 'Cause rap without Ren is like a skull without a brain, dude Or like a freak-out with no one to complain to Hockey without ice or China without rice The Bible without Christ, vindaloo with no spice Playing snakes and ladders with no dice Day without night, like Mike without an earlobe bite I keep it tight, left-right, fake, dodge and evade An uppercut, fuck 'em up in any various ways Nеfarious gaze moving through precarious days When wе're moving through the bubble troubled air in my veins Librarian brain, pull up a barbarian slain Performing like I'm global warming, music making it rain I'm pimpin' my pain, prostitute of all that's insane Put my problems on the paper and the sales will reign The sails will rise, pirate with a patch on his eye Get ya hooked up on the music sailor, aye, aye, aye It's like rats to the music when I'm feedin 'em pie It's the pie-rats can't relax I'm the waviest guy Like yo, rats bring the bubonic flow Move the tectonic plates when I step to the show So cold, I know a couple people don't fuck with it They can just suck on it, zip it, then go, thanks, bro Eenie, meenie, miney, mo, I'm shining like a diamond though When pressure makes a rhyming diamond, this was by design, ya know An isotope, a proton and a neutron in the nuclei And split an atom in a fraction, a reaction supersize Me and I supersize my order Fries on the side I'm a big whopping author Big Mac, rest in peace, B.I.G, rest in peace, Mac Rest in peace, Pac, rest in peace, Peep, rest in peace, rap We lose all the greats like that So put respect upon they names while they still intact That's why I rap upon this beat that was deep for Nas I might never reach the level, I'll salute with bars I'm coming and bringing the deep heat and when they are singing the bees knees What a ridiculous MC sound so meticulous, repeat When I am spitting improperly, bending biology No one can follow me, what an anomaly Sick shit and quick wit makes girls wet and dicks stiff I'm so tongue-in-cheek with my tongue in your cheek I never sleep cause death is the cousin of sleep I never rest cause sleep is the cousin of death So save your breath, stop the tape, press pause, and eject" Just so you know I've loved almost every other reaction you both have done and I can't wait to see more. I'm sub'd and will always come back for your breakdowns. Cheers🍻

[@AlmostJokingPod]

I hear you bro lol I’m sure it will trigger some of ya but it’s ok. Jay-Z my favorite rapper and the song Sunshine CORNY AF! Go check it out if you haven’t. It’s terrible lol it’s music bro not everything can be great. Sometimes as an artist you’re going to take chances and it might be corny. I made a weed song before when i first started smoking and it’s the most cringy corny ish EVERRRRRR😂😂 it will NEVER be heard haha… btw big L one of my goats…so i was aware of all that

[@Av3rageD4D]

I like learning, thank you for posting this!

[@WTF34720]

@@AlmostJokingPodThen there’s the sailor/pirate/wave bars - Nas used to be called Kid Wave. It is saturated with homage you didn’t even pick up on. The whole point of this was to show respect to Nas, he has not monetised it, or his other retakes. I respect we all have our own opinions and that you aint tryna be yes men. However you missed all the deeper references which imo (and not said with disrespect, just MY opinion) tells me REN’s of the game runs through his veins a lot more than it does yours. It definitely came across like you had made your minds up before pressing play, which evidently left your minds very closed off. Again, no disrespect, just one persons opinion, as you expressed yours

[@emerj101]

Just gotta say, love the intelligence and respect being shown for the artists and us listeners, it’s refreshing not to get spammed by trolls. Thanks @AlmostJokingPod for fostering this awesome community and conversation, I love it!

[@user-dd1oy9dk5z]

@@AlmostJokingPod easy to say you caught the Big L lines after the fact. But kinda corny🤣

[@sharis9095]

I watched this in the live and didn't realize I'd seen it until it started... I think you missed the point on this but c'est la vie... I'd rather your honest (if misguided...lol) opinion, than have you "love it" just to pander to the viewers.

[@garysherwin3316]

Life is not always a competition

[@AlmostJokingPod]

This ain’t life, it’s HIPHOP! It’s BUILT on competition… but it’s cool you might not be apart of this culture

[@greenogre22]

@@AlmostJokingPodyou seem to want to define for others what the hiphop culture should be. but every culture has been changing always and that‘s natural. but it’s ok if you want to stick to your old days and never accept any change. you must not accept other approaches just because you are so keen on your heroes. you’ve got all the right to keep your mind in a box to stay secure, don‘t bother yourself. it just happens that every now and then game changers appear and court someone‘s resentment. not saying you both are exactly like that but you very much appear that way. ren‘s happens to be an artist who‘s very versatile able to build in a certain style in other stuff unlike here in my opinion. he plays around and creates new stuff which i‘m sure will influence others to come. not you of course as seemingly conservative traditionalists.

[@1individeo]

When you miss 80% of the double bars and say the whole thing is corny. I accept it if someone says it is corny after showing to have caught the bars. But in this case most bars went over their heads. I personally always give it a second listening, alone, before making any conclusion. But I respect as it is their effing channel and whoever don't like them could just go some other reactors. I'm black, african, and been "using" hiphop way before Nas was even thinking about becoming a rapper and what I can say Ren is, artistically, he is the best I ever saw since Andre 3000. He might not be the best rapper around, in the UK alone names like Akala, Dave or Lowkey are all better rappers than Ren but Ren is artistically miles away from anything in the hiphop game right now. Globally.

[@svvital2141]

2nd that!

[@alexkeddy5244]

Str8 Facts 🧠 🥊 😵‍💫

[@rogerwilco6377]

Probly couldn't understand half the rhymes

[@jamesdoherty6558]

get these 2 , into a old folks home, quick, they are not down with this ren fire song, clearly they are losing their marbles lol

[@stevecody9878]

It's a shame you watched this through blinkered eyes... It made you miss so much... You've probably read the comment which points out a few of the ones that flew over your head ✈️ I don't think the word "corny" could ever be appropriately attached to anything that Ren does. Cheers for your effort though 👍🍻

[@tonyapayne9897]

Wow, just can’t admit that Ren did his thing and made it different and dare I say better, could it be that he’s Welsh and you can’t give him his due.The original is good, nothing special, he made it better. Middle aged nobodies is exactly right.

[@louise11854]

hello dears!! i like your vibe!!! also, this vid was released on "Pi day," 3/14/24. kathleen

[@CalvinHart-dv8gv]

With respect I disagree. That was not corny, it was full of love and flowers. It was so intricately clever. Take another listen guys.

[@adamkelly5520]

Ren is 🔥🔥🔥🔥 on any beat. Just hard to remake from maybe the greatest hip hop album ever. I still think he killed it in his normal Ren way

[@AlmostJokingPod]

Agree… if you take ANYTHING off Illmatic you have to be ready! I wrote once to NY state Of mind and felt it just didn’t match up. I never even recorded it. LOL i even put those high expectations on MYSELF

[@emerj101]

I think the issue is that he did kill it in usual way! What I mean is, Ren is beast, we can all agree. However, to try to remake a top #50 hip hop historical type shit… it just sounds corny to us who’ve spent 30 years internalizing rhymes from the man who wrote, “When I was 12, I went to hell for smoking Jesus.” Maybe it’s an age thing, could be personal, could be cultural… but I agree with Quice, it’s always gonna come up short.

[@AlmostJokingPod]

@emerj101 facts!!! I don’t think they’ll understand until they’re 40 and their kids think Ren best shit is not it and they’re trying to explain how dope Ren is. When you touch classics, the homage isnt shout outs , the homage is trying to outdo the original. Otherwise don’t touch it. Like movies….Remakes of a classic that’s terrible feels just that much worse. You might’ve accepted it differently if it was just a new movie franchise

[@emerj101]

@@AlmostJokingPod 💯, good analogy

[@titob243]

He was straight giving flowers to Nas

[@asylumfrog5003]

What were you expecting he payed homage to the greats i think you need to be more open minded!

[@greenogre22]

well, i think in the end it‘s matter of taste and attitude. whether you put certain artists on such a high pedestal so you think that no ones allowed to play around with it a bit. in my opinion ren has some pretty technical and lyrical skills that allows him to play around with stuff of whomever. let‘s just listen and appreciate detached from any imagined obstacles.

[@JanetVega-hd9rv]

Did you get the lyrics?? He wasn't trying to be Nas, he's Ren paying tribute to the greats!

[@skurkela]

way better than the original!

[@WorldGoneMad968]

Corny as hell...OK. That's one way to look at it. It's funny because there's a LOT there in the lyrics that you didn't process (fair on the first listen) but it's pretty crafty when you actually break it all down. Not your thing I get it...but if you were hoping he'd pretend to be NAS on this you're fooling yourselves. Even trying to sound NAS-like ain't gonna happen.

[@VideosbyLisaLisa]

❤

[@user-gp8jk5kw1x]

Pst, he honored Nas you hacks!

[@anegativeatheist-9327]

Real RENegades show up. Hey, I came here for an honest perspective and I finally feel like I got one. Ren is my favorite artist. That doesn’t mean he is immune from all scrutiny. This is not a toxic community. I respect that you guys posted this. I wouldn’t mind seeing a deeper dive into the lyrics. Peace

[@AlmostJokingPod]

🫡 to you bruh. We are always down with the debate or opinions. Some of these people get wildddd though but no artist is above criticism. We both used to be artists and trust we critique each other's stuff as well. My favorite artist is JayZ but it doesn't mean he doesn't have terrible songs.... he has terrible albums but he's still my favorite artist

[@jamiereed6080]

Lol when the bars go over the heads because some bars might appear corny you clearly didn't pay back the players. This was a call out to everyone, his former band mates, his catalog, chinchilla, reactors, the hears and nas lmao this was fire even if it went over your heads 🤘🏻 It was the ultimate tribute to those that put him in the map. But not everyone had to like it. But the talent, rhyme she's and flow were there

[@AlmostJokingPod]

So I’m suppose to think something is great because someone was sending shout outs? I could give you a list of those types of songs that is bad. It’s ok lol if you like it cool. Craig likes ether…Dash likes made you look… tomato tomatoes lol it’s music bruh

[@newguy2878]

Wow you guys are so cool. You should just "zip it and go...thanks bro"

[@-RalphSpencer-]

Not enough gold chains😒

[@jamespowers8826]

Well, o.k. And Ren is blowing up, making music every day, moving the genre's forward, and you guys are doing music reactions. Lots of gatekeeping going on where Hiphop is concerned. At least Ren is out freezing his rear off on the street bringing us new music. Lots of arrogance here.

[@Q.Q.]

Curious: what makes the original "Halftime" such a "classic?" I've listened to it. I've read the lyrics to it. I'm missing what makes it a "classic." What about it, either musically or lyrically, makes it "great?" Cadence? "Flow?"

[@AlmostJokingPod]

If you don’t know youngin i can’t explain it. You had to be there

[@Q.Q.]

@@AlmostJokingPod As much I'd like it to be the case, I'm no "youngin" compared to you, I'm afraid. As to your curt, dismissive "answer," so it's time/era-specific, then? Doesn't "classic" imply a timelessness? Would Naz be as revered if his name were, say, Elmer, or a Eugene? I would think if there were something so obviously great about a piece of art/work that to suggest otherwise -- or, in this case, to do a tribute of sorts to it -- would almost be treated as sacrilege by the OG's faithful, those faithful should find it fairly easy to point out what about it so great. It can't just be marketing, can it? Just image, perception, a "brand name?"

[@Q.Q.]

"...those faithful should find it fairly easy to point out what about it IS so great."

[@tryaluck]

I respect the fact you guys gave your honest opinion, instead of pretending to like it, like some other reactors. You didnt say anything too offensive, but if i could give a little bit of advice, if a fanbase self appoint a name for themselves, I.E Renegade's, you should probably choose your words carefully. You did miss most of the clever things and Easter eggs he did on this track. But i can't blame you, i missed 75% myself, i was made aware of the things i missed by watching other reactions and reading comments. But if the track didn't resonate with you, nothing can change that, we dont choose what we like, we just do, its a subconscious reaction that we have no say in. Music is subjective, we all can't like the same thing's, and life would be pretty boring if we did. Ive watched quite a lot of your reactions and usually enjoy them, so i think its about time i subbed. 😊

[@user-vp1qw1ft2k]

You guys have no idea, obviously the doubles and triples went over your head, and your sound quality is absolute naff

[@3dwardmurph913]

I respect tour opinion I no some will complain...but not every song is for everyone ....but he does make a song for everyone ....respect bro

[@user-jl7dd2fz5c]

Ren fan ore not!He nailed th8s one and he shows RESPECT!

[@JoeYo77]

Yeah I was a huge Nas fan. It’s the third album I haven’t bought my own money. I grew up in Staten Island so I feel you just wrapped level is that Dodge but I mean who is? Which is the fact he had a nice flow. Good pockets. Nice Rob schemes give us respect all the great. He’s a big whopping author. Rest in peace big rest in mac back rest in peace PAC. Then when he said I might never reach your level but I salute you with bars yeah you gotta give someone props man. He knows his history and evil from America. I’m here to pay homage while you’re still alive. This is my first time on your channel so I don’t know but I could tell by your face from the start he could’ve been spitting like Eminem up and down the street and he wasn’t gonna give him the props at all and Illmatic been in my CD player for 25 years so I get it. But it certainly was not corny ain’t no way in hell to say that but I can’t understand saying you gotta be a little bit more fire to rap over Nas. I don’t know what rappers you listen to today, but none of them pay homage or have respect for the OG of the game, so at least Ren did that give him some credit.

[@AlmostJokingPod]

@Joeyo77 man i wish more younger artist was aware of older hip hop. They’re sampling songs from our era now but never heard the original. It’s some young rappers i like though. It’s just kinda spread out because you get either rappers who sound like everybody else, they’re trying to over rap to show they can or they’re just bad lol i find artist here in there i like tho

[@JoeYo77]

@@AlmostJokingPod yes I agree with you there. They are big shoes to fill and even young cats with talent act like they’re the first ones that come up with this stuff got no respect for people who did this shit 30 years ago.. so I’m just saying that rent not even being from United States pays his respects to the grades that passed away, even where he says RIP rap because he knows none of these guys even though the game, their history, and have no respect. So when he says, I know I may never reach your level but I’m here to salute you with bars while you’re still alive I gotta respect that.. and the very beginning where he’s coming around the corner and he’s saying Rap without Ren is like a skull without a brain , China without Rice hockey without ice, Bible, no Christ, etc he got the flow from somebody from back in the day. I’m sure you know hip-hop in the history much better than I do. I was just in junior high school then but I’m from New York City and I can’t remember his name but that whole sequence is his name big L.? It’s a long time ago but my point is if you listen closely, he is a student of rap and even though if you watched his battle with Dotta, after he out raped him He said I’m not a rapper I just like to rap. so in my opinion, if Naz saw this, he wouldn’t think it was trash or his music was done a disservice. I might be wrong, but I respect him doing his homework and being a student of the game and paying Avage those before him. And all around his top-tier musician as far as a rapper is he Naz? No. Will he ever be? No. The fact that he had been sent himself and wants to pay respect for the impact that he’s had on his musical influence while he’s still alive. I thought that was very tasteful. And then at the very end where he says I don’t sleep cause sleep is the cousin of death, hey, another shout out to Nazir New York State of mind what my all-time favorites just flip that line. So I think you were just a little rough on mess up. But I appreciate your response. I gotta check out a couple more reactions. From you guys. ✌🏻

[@highlightspotent127]

Funny , I’ve read through a lot of these comments and felt compelled to add to them . The faithful are basing a lot on pure nostalgia I’m betting . I’m old , and I’ve found this to be true across all genres. Half the guys from the sixties and seventies we call legends can’t even sing compared to the voices of today but they are so highly revered because of the boundaries they were breaking through to bring us their music . Nas for example …. Is no better , just different . But, he is a legend . You can say that about any of the giants . Music is subjective because of this. People arguing is pointless. I thought your reaction was fair . It’s yours and who can argue your take . Personally I liked it . Maybe I looked at it from a different perspective and in doing so found its worth . I appreciate the reactions you guys do and will keep watching . We all don’t have to have the same opinions . Cheers 🇨🇦🍻

[@user-dd1oy9dk5z]

Fellas…😂. You said “Corny as hell!”😂 And you said it after watching this like it’s 1993 and these two fools are bout to battle.🤣 Now that’s corny🤓. Who says you don’t jump on that beat and play around? You guys? Ima hip hop lifer. It’s built on so much more than just competition. That’s an element, for sure, but this cat’s just giving him those flowers. That’s dope. He aint trying to body NAS beat here, just a quick 2min one take for fun to pay tribute. It’s still trash, huh. Sure it is. Perspective and mindset are powerful things. This reaction is a textbook example.

[@roobs4245]

I agree Ren can do better. But on this track he just had to be better than Nas, which he clearly was. And better while not being unidimensional like Nas, but mastering all facets of music production and visuals as well. Don't get me wrong, I like listening to Nas. But if you cannot admit Ren is superior on Nas' own track that is just your bias.

[@BrummieLadd]

Fun fact look at the date he released the video 3/14 that's pi then he drops bars about pies 😂👍

[@AnotherFacelessDigitalNoOne]

That was fire. Y'all missed it hard. Oh well. You bros do you

[@sputukgmail]

I watched this and commented on the first upload, but watching it again, I find it even funnier. It’s like someone at an air show looking at the ground and complaining the show sucks - it all went over your head 😂 At least, based on everything you said, and how little you apparently got. BUT - I also had a realisation of why this was tough for you I think. In my life, something like Meatloaf Bat Out of Hell is an absolute classic, and if someone today came along and did a version of that track that didn’t capture all the things I love from the original, I /know/ I would hate it, regardless of how clever or skilled it was done. I couldn’t help it. The history, the nostalgia, the memories I’ve got associated with that music means anyone trying to do something would immediately face a massive battle in my mind to even get to “trash”. So I don’t judge you badly for sharing your honest reactions - what would be the point of watching a reaction (and in my case, rewatching it too) if the reaction isn’t genuine and honest. I know it’s no use trying to convince you - a reaction isn’t something you rationalise, you feel it, and it doesn’t matter how the things you dismissed as “corny” are explained to you etc, or the multiple layers behind them making them much deeper and cleverer - it’s probably just going to cement your initial reaction as you’d feel attacked. You’re not alone in feeling like this either, although some old hip hop heads who went in sceptical and had never heard of Ren, have been won over as they saw something in it. So - thanks for the reaction. It’s as much fun as your other reactions.

[@toddlong8672]

Speak your mind brother

[@Charyl.w.an.A]

Another Great truthful reaction 👏🏼 I’m here for the truth, even thou you’re wrong 😂😂😂 Just Playin 😁

[@Bizcutdaartist]

And he release it on national pie day😊

[@suesee4855]

Much love ❤️ Sue

[@meaghanhoffmann5869]

"I don’t want to have to study science to enjoy rap" - Almost Joking Podcast Me: Study? You're admitting that you're too stupid to just know this off the top of your head?? This proves the American education system is worthless.

[@jonathansmith8932]

I agree that not all songs are gonna be on the same level as other ones. I listened to back on 74 over and over and just couldn't get enough, Half-time a handful of times but mostly just looking for reactions to it. I like it but I'm not addicted like with other songs of his

[@JonnyPhive]

...he released the song on PI Day 3/14/24 pie scheme on pie day?

[@WarriorOfGhengisKhan]

Pretty sure if you swore by the Bible you actually didn't peep 60 % of the lyrics and meaning behind them on the first listen. Ren did this as a bit of fun to pass the time and pay respect while having treatment in Canada. I doubt it was ever meant to challenge or replace Naz's original, so no need to drop the hammer. It's just a bit of fun.

[@sunshynff]

Before I give my opinion, I'm an old head, who cut his teeth on Run DMC, Beasties, Nas, Big L, 2Live Crew, NWA etc etc, and while I disagree with ya'll and think ya bumped your head a little, I can't be mad at it. There's so many fake ass reactors out here, and I know you well aware of the Ren fans and how butt hurt some of them will be, and yet you stayed real with how ya felt about the track, so I can't do nothing but sub to the channel now, props for keepin' it real. Now with that mushy $hite out the way, I ain't saying this as a Ren fan, I'm saying this as a lover and student of the culture, all things Hip-hop. I don't think he got off to a great start, the hockey without Ice, china without rice scheme didn't do much for me, plus it was similar, if not the same as a couple bars off a Big L track that was on The Big Picture album after he passed, but that might have been a nod to him too. But starting with Mike without an earlobe bite I though his bars were pretty solid, "pimpin' my pain, so the sales with rise, sails will rise then into the pirate scheme, then he paid homage to Big, Pac, Craig Mack, and Peep, and shouted out Nas, and ended the track with "sleep is the cousin of death, which is a line off Nas's NY State of mind. The original was 4min 20sec, 3 verses and a fire hook, Ren's was almost exactly half the time at 2min 13sec, two verses and no hook. I don't know, IMO you shouldn't try to outshine the original artist your paying homage to, I think Ren could have gone harder, but I don't think he wanted to look like he was trying to outdo Nas. Oh well, to each their own, like I said, still enjoyed your reaction!! ✌️💚

[@AlmostJokingPod]

Salute bro. Dope comment… i appreciate you being real though. To be a hip hop head debating is apart of it! I love to debate hip hop just like me and Craig was about to debate made you look vs ether. You can’t be into this culture and not respect different taste and appreciate the debate. We know it’s alot of reactors who play up for subs and we don’t want to do that and we want people who rock with us to know we’re going to stay authentic

[@mothermaclean]

Big l homage

[@emerj101]

If he really wanted to pay tribute, he would’ve CRUSHED that beat so hard, it would’ve inspired NAS to come back and, in turn, body it again! THATS the hiphop I fell in love with as a kid in the 90’s… it’s all in the game! Ren didn’t do that, I’d LOVE to hear his motivation behind this song in an interview. The man is an artist… he had to have thought this out, right???

[@AlmostJokingPod]

@emerj101 real talk!! That’s how you pay homage you supposed to KILL that shit!! Nas would’ve been like oh hell yeah let me update a verse or something

[@emerj101]

@@AlmostJokingPod FACTS!

[@milesplatting1]

You two are corny. The bars went over your head. He didn't try to be nas. This guy is so much more talented than nas will ever be. You didn't even try to break down the bars. Bias and a lack of intelligence with a little racism thrown in to boot. Very poor reaction.

[@ChrisLawton66]

😮 unnecessary

[@two6hundo]

Retake... I think this whole reaction needs one. Just from what I've seen, and I didn't even take the test and didn't do the homework, but from all across the board, wide and abroad, people who know, know, and are praising the subtle things that dropped and hit in this video and in these lyrics. Maybe go back and re-analyze this reaction. If it don't hit, it don't hit, but at least give credit where the credit is due. No shade. Love y'all and still appreciate what you do.

[@PlymouthLad76]

As a huge Ren fan i still respect your view. I had to listen a few times and it grew on me but I think you're right he could have gone harder but not surprising as it's a nod to nas and not an actual track that would go on any of his albums.

[@AlmostJokingPod]

It felt that way. Like hey I’m a just throw something together real quick. All rappers do it and that was my point about that not really being a track to “play around “ with.

[@aidanedgcombe8885]

he posted this on pi day hence the pi lines, But this rap is just props to the greats, he’s not tranna make it better. it annoys me when people don’t understand the lyrics of a song they too caught up in “it’s never gonna be as good as Nas” in the head which will make it worse for you, so listen to it again like it’s Ren, listen to the lyrics and try and understand what he’s doing. He’s just vibing on one of his idols beats and making rhymes.

[@davidfulwiler4713]

I respectfully disagree but let me give you a redemption track for Ren do his song "Power" it is amazing.

[@tomimpala]

5:04 says it all

[@christophCymru]

It was also 2.10 literally half the time of the NAS video. No worries if you didn't like it, I thought it was class, its playful. Rens got like 40 videos of his own stuff thats fire, hes just having fun here and not thinking about it too much

[@jcdrummerz96]

Y'all would love Humble by Ren and Eden Nash

[@mikenighbor4524]

Thanks for being real. I loved it but i was never got into nas in my youth. I was a heavy metal troubled kid in Canada. I got into rap into my twenties and i loved that he did it out of respect for nas . Paid homage to the old greats and put nas up on the level so wanted to tgank him for his influence. Played the sleeo death line to pay respect. Similar situation with queen B doing Jolene. Country classic and on the surface seemed like a difference in feminist mindset but Dolly wrote it as a newly wed and Beyonce did hers with the attitude of a twenty year marriage with kids. So it was fire because of the earned entitlement Beyonce had with her family to come at it more aggressively

[@im2yz4u17]

ROFL. i just KNEW you both would not like this one. Respect. Ren is a different beast; appeals to a very different audience of course. Do not discount that audience. There is an older white woman I watch regularly that has been reacting to Eminem and NAS and Tupac oldies from the 90's on. Who'd of thought that people like her and I would enjoy Ren yet find new joy in both older and some contemporary rap. Older rap is so much better as we see with NAS Halftime (original). Nowadays it is mostly crap rap but there are some gems. Keep it up guys, Ren is not tops on your list we know, but we still enjoy the reactions!

[@AlmostJokingPod]

Salute… Ren still fire this one just aint do it for us. That’s all. Its classic hip hop albums with 15 tracks and only 10 fire but its classic! You kinda forget about the 5 wack ones lol

[@renedesruisseaux819]

Have you listen to lyrics and understand when REN THX NAS AND other great RAPPER saying is maby never gonna be able to approched it say tnx to all before they die

[@wildaboutlife1234]

As Ren says if you dont fuck with it zip it then go ,thanks bro . That would be you two then . I get when people do not like something but least get the point of this track . Wont be coming back for another reaction along with alot of others 👋

[@JonDoeNut]

Totally missing the point of the track.

[@inkpad_ai]

Can you recite halftime?

[@user-ge3zw4rz4e]

The gotta be joking podcast

[@TheAxeification]

Check out Seven Sins the lyric video.

[@neilcarson1106]

Wtf peeps? The dudes just gave their opinion, they don't have to like every track and I'm pretty disappointed in the comments on here. I've met so many lovely people in The Rabbit Hole. We all get along and preach a message of understanding like Ren does in his music and interview's. If we're preaching it, live it because these guys don't deserve to be attacked for their opinion of a track ffs. A lot of Oldheads in hip hop won't like this track, my old ass was sceptical but i love it because I love dissecting Rens lyrics, like his style and all the artists he's paying tribute to but some people don't think you should mess with certain songs, so these negative reactions will come. Chill though, it's an opinion! All artists paid tribute to in the lyrics ‐ Nas Big L Slick Rick B.I.G Pac Mac Miller Lil Peep

[@AlmostJokingPod]

💯💯💯💯

[@corinnelabita]

I’m a huge Ren fan and I had the same reaction to this song. It’s…fine. I think you guys will like Wicked Ways and Murderer better

[@AlmostJokingPod]

Salue to you mama… i love seeing not all of his fans are crazy 😂😂😂

[@wernersmidt3298]

OK, I'll say something. Initially when I saw people reacting negatively towards a Ren track, I too got my boxers in wedgie (and I freakin' cringe at my earlier comments). However, as I got a little more exposed to more rap, I can see why people will have certain criticisms. I don't have to agree with critique to understand why someone might not like it. Personally, I don't think this is one of Ren's best, but that doesn't matter at all. We don't need our tastes to be validated for us to enjoy something. I'm pretty sure an artist would rather take a "no" than a handy when asking someone if they f- with their track. Y'all expecting someone to catch all the bars on the first go is quixotic at best.

[@AlmostJokingPod]

I Respect that 🫡

[@larrywoodard2639]

I find it fine to not like it. I get that, but why there was 0 breakdown as to why? I thought flows were tight. They were also skymed well. But thanks for the stone face zero input take much love later guys. See you on the next one.

[@AlmostJokingPod]

Some things don’t really need a deep break down. I think the people who get it get it. It’s funny how emotional some people are because we didn’t like a song though. lol respect though

[@seantaylor4095]

Everyone's entitled to their opinion, but I'd be interested to know why you think it's corny when you didn't seem to pay much attention to what he was saying? Seen dozens of other reactions to this from rappers with huge followings who break down the lyrics and seem to get it. Have no problem with you not liking something, but you need to put in a bit of effort to understand it first. If you then still don't like it, then fair enough.

[@fracker8258]

Maybe corny as fuck to the hard-core Nas fans, which respected point of view. But for everyone else that listens to music such as myself that wasn’t like a hard-core Naz fan, but still know of him to some degree I feel Ren I guess you could say play around with it in his own runway, but the same time paying respects to the greats man.

[@AlmostJokingPod]

Yeah i respect for sure that he paid homage. It lets me know he knows his hip hop. The fact he chose that record i know he knows…it just didnt hit.. i would love to interview him and ask him some questions

[@WorldGoneMad968]

@@AlmostJokingPodThen you should ask. Never know...he's a lot more likely to do it than many artists.

[@thegoose126]

Think you missed the point of it. Plus halftime is all about the beat, nas lyrics were decent but not his best.

[@AlmostJokingPod]

Why you think we “missed a point”? Its HIP HOP! Since when you need to know a backstory or what motivated the artist to decide if you like a song? lol like since WHEN?!

[@thegoose126]

@@AlmostJokingPod Missed the point as ren uses lots of other artists beats to pay homage to them. It's not going up against the original artist, also lots of clever rhyme schemes that you seemed to overlook. Just surprised at the negative review, but opinions are opinions and not everyone likes the same thing.

[@AlmostJokingPod]

@thegoose126 that’s my point… we’re REACTING not doing a documentary into why he wrote lyrics bro. We hit play and listen. We’re not stalking down background info. I’ve never popped in ANYBODY music and was like before each song let me see why they rapping this. So that don’t matter… and rapping over a beat isn’t always about homage as much as it is you just like a beat. Bruh ya moving the goal post lol if you like it that’s cool. No beef but to think i don’t because i missed or didn’t understand something is huff. I’m sure it’s songs i rock with you might not like but I’m not going to be like you don’t get it, it’s just not for you. That’s it that’s all.

[@thegoose126]

@@AlmostJokingPod I get you reacting and other channels break bars down and sometimes imo find things that aren't even there! But...if you caught the bars fair play it's your opinion to still not like it and find the cadence bad etc. I just thought this was one of rens best put together tracks and showed nas, hip hop and the reactions community plenty of love. Will still be here for your reactions!

[@WTF34720]

@@AlmostJokingPodI don’t think he was referring to delving into rens backstory as such, he was talking on the lyricism and there fact theres a meaning for every bar, reference and homage paid throughout and you missed it all which is sad considering people come here to reaction channels to watch exactly that, people catching and understanding the references. Perhaps the knowledge just aint there for you two

[@petehutcheon5186]

C+?

[@Sabrina-wz9ko]

I am seriously disappointed in some of the comments here. Attacking reactors and trying to belittle them just cuz they don't like one Ren song? Going to string me up next? Cuz at first listen I really didn't like this one either... though I also never cared much for Nas so not surprising to me. I'll admit it has grown on me while catching so many reactions to it, but it still isn't something I listen to otherwise. You all need to stop trying to keep Ren on this strange cult like pedestal you've placed him on. He's great, cheeky, talented and hard working, been through a lot of shit and has helped so many feel more seen and less alone. BUT you all obviously need a reminder that he's human like the rest of us, and to take a lesson from him in empathy, compassion and class.

[@seantaylor4095]

I agree that a lot of the reactions are over the top, but for me it was the fact they didn't really give it a chance. Felt like they'd made up their mind that a NAS retake was going to be bad regardless, didn't pay attention to the lyrics and so missed the point of the track. We shouldn't expect everyone to like all Ren's stuff, but I think it lacks respect to not give it proper consideration before forming an opinion. Maybe we've been spoilt by some of the other reactors out there.

[@beverlywest7627]

I have watched at least 10 other reactors who are deep into Nas, with hundreds of thousands of subs, and every one loved this! It's a retake, not Nas, and your the only ones who did not mention his shout out to all the rappers gone, rest in peace.... your rating a c- and never even mentioned that! DId you even hear any of the lyrics? The mention to Mike without an earlobe bite..? If you want to react, you must listen. First time on your channel, sorry can't sub, too many other reactors who actually know the history and listen to lyrics.

[@jasonkart1651]

First, you literally admit you went into it closed minded. Second you call it corny yet half the bars came from Nas himself or other rappers from that time. There were very few lyrics written by Ren himself. You may as well say a white guy from Wales dared to rap over a Nas beat there is no way we are giving this a chance. And again it's clear neither of you paid attention to the lyrics or you would have recognized the Nas bars. You don't have to like everything Ren does but you can't call this a reaction when your minds were made up before hearing it.

[@masmasure7234]

Oh, they heard the lyrics.

[@AlmostJokingPod]

@masmasure7234 exactly lol we heard it all… I’m not sure when higher expectations meant close minded. I have higher expectations for a woman who would be my wife than i would for a random chick at target too…. Dont mean I’m not going to bullseye that employee 😂😂😂

[@jasonkart1651]

@AlmostJokingPod Don't try to backpedal listen to your own reaction. You started it saying when you heard he was doing halftime you knew it was a bad idea. And you aren't going to convince me his race and where he is from didn't affect how you went into the reaction. Peace.

[@ChrisLawton66]

​@@jasonkart1651can anyone convince you that comments like this are unnecessary?

[@AlSnoopsReid]

@@jasonkart1651 Well said I agree 100%.

[@dbell2224]

How many rap videos have the two of you did? ...0 so when you come out with one then judge others.Until you two are just two more people who judge others with more balls than the two of you put together.What it pisses you off to hear negative comments yet you have no problem saying them.NAS version was FORGOTTEN until this!

[@AlmostJokingPod]

First of all your passion is noticed 🤣, 2 I have a few rap videos, 7 projects and 2 albums on Spotify but I did stop pursuing music as a career choice a while ago but to answer ur question we know what we're talking about, and 3rd Nas will never be forgotten but ur a superfan logic isn't your strong quality when ur in that state of mind, lastly God Bless

[@4arrows4all]

I thought the bars were sick, but when it’s a tribute to another rapper, I’m not really that interested because I like the original rapper on his own. What this shows is he’s a student of rap. His flow patterns were a direct nod to Nas and if you look at it as just a love letter to the people that influenced him, that’s not going to be hitting particularly hard. That Mike Tyson bar though. And making girls wet and dicks stiff. Fiiire. It was also kind of short song, so I have my issues with it, but overall it was a fun time.

[@jer0mys]

You dont know Nas lol

[@protarget1]

Only reactors on the planet who didn't like this, You hated this, even before it started. It was Ren's Tribute to Nas..and, OG's of Rap, and taking a shot at modern rappers who show no respect to the to the greats. Thumbs down,

[@AlmostJokingPod]

Good it means we’re unique. Why would we want to be like others??? And we’re not “reactors” we’re just hip hop heads listening to music on cam

[@protarget1]

@@AlmostJokingPod Nope, not unique, Michelleshow, has been hating much longer, and doing it much better. 😉🤣

[@evenflow1981]

For two guys who are presenting yourselves as rap elitists, you missed a hell of a lot in that song.

[@PurePT]

You missed every single bar except the ones you read about before and just went with your previous bias, embarrassing 🤦‍♂️

[@ceciltuttle743]

When I hear mfs say “that’s corny” I hear “I’m jealous of how great rens writing is” hahahaha love nas but you’re foolish on “grading” ren….

[@AlmostJokingPod]

You sound utterly retardant to think someone jealous of something they don't like. Stop frank eating

[@darrenl3289]

Weird. You talk about being fans of hip hop and totally miss that the entire song is built as an appreciation of Nas and others. Ren wasn't challenging Nas or trying to one up him, he was paying tribute. Huge swing and a miss by both of you because you went in with your own agenda in mind.

[@sambrook8084]

Nas was a c- rapper anyway, just cause he was one of the first. You're bias. Listen another time or two

[@immenseorg]

It was perfectly alright but nothing special

[@KitstormUno]

Who are you? Has anyone outside your circle ever heard of you? I have watched hundreds of reactions to this song and you are the only two that had no idea what you were talking about. Sad that you have followers that are going to believe you, like you know anything.

[@AlmostJokingPod]

Thank you for your emotions, we appreciate you caring so much about our opinion. Which kind of qualifies you as someone outside of our circle who knows us or cares what we think. I had more enlightenment for you but I realized your probably a superfan who thinks he can do no wrong and its pointless to have a conversation with someone like that, so actually your right we kno nothing 🤣

[@KitstormUno]

@@AlmostJokingPod. Honestly, I didn’t make it past your opening because it was prejudice, egotistical and showed lack of knowledge. These are the exact opposite of who Ren is as a human being. I am a Ren fan but I am also a rational thinker and know not everything he does is perfect but he does not deserve your biased remarks. You might want to pay more attention to him, you might learn how to be better humans.

[@AlmostJokingPod]

@kimwilliams5642 you sound silly af lol what the hell is wrong with some of ya lol

[@longkesh1971]

If all the lyrics went over your head then play it again. Pathetic.

[@dbell2224]

Two more wish were rappers slamming an artist.How many bars can either of you spit..0

[@alanrnmahler]

Definitely not hitting the subscribe on this one 🤷‍♂️

[@jer0mys]

Way over your head.

[@pontheroad3060]

Stop doing reaction movies. You''ll do better as a real podcast.

[@masmasure7234]

It lacked some delivery and some hood.

[@AlmostJokingPod]

Delivery was really off…. Really.. not saying he had to talk street talk, but scientific schemes on Halftime?? Nahhhh… not really my flavor

[@muninraven3327]

I personally feel Ren should have stayed on point throughout this, but maybe his one weakness is he can't help but throw in silly sexual puns that are, well... unnecessary and quite frankly are ruinous. He did the same thing on the otherwise amazing "Back on 74" mash-up. Sure, he's cultivated that "cheeky chap" part of his lyrics, but to me it often tanks a otherwise wonderful performance.

[@Q.Q.]

What's so bad about "sexual puns?" Are other types of puns bad, or just sexual ones? Are all sexual puns "silly," or just some?

[@AlmostJokingPod]

I like sexual puns in my hip hop personally. I just didn’t think it was good lol I’m not one to be that much of a purest i try to dictate what subjects people rap about. Rap about whatever you want, just make it good. Be braggadocios, be conscious, be street, be nerdy, be whatever you want. I’ve heard every subject possible and it don’t mean it’s all good. A subject don’t equate it’s good

[@tomimpala]

Should have called it half effort

[@AlmostJokingPod]

Yeah…i think if you’re going to do half time you gotta be in RAP RAP mode!!!

[@shadizl]

I don't mind Ren, but this wasn’t it.. not on the Halftime beat.. P.S. Ether > Made You Look

[@AlmostJokingPod]

Noooooo lol i think tomorrow on the live were going to have this debate once and for all! Made you look way better 😂😂😂

[@robert_39e]

lol ya'll fighting for you lives out here in these comments 🦚 Not sure why people get so upset that someone else doesn't like a song they like.

[@chucknorris5141]

Maybe the same reason you took time to comment on comments you don't like?

[@robert_39e]

​@@chucknorris5141 and what comment did I reply to?