Why Everyone Is Talking About REN | (required viewing)

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[@RenMakesMusic]

My brother! Just got a chance to sit down and watch this, loved the place you approached it from! I liked the TS Eliot quote too , awesome! thanks so much for reacting and helping support what I do!

[@ChrisLawton66]

Damn, Ren. You truly are a class act.

[@Guitargate]

It’s my pleasure my friend! I’ve gotten slammed to review another track of yours, so I’ll be doing that soon. Keep going brother - I love your stuff & you’re always welcome to come on the Channel if you’d like!

[@RenMakesMusic]

@@Guitargate Keeping an eye out for it! am in canada atm going through medical treatment for the next few months but one its over with could be a great thing to do!

[@robertovasquez1538]

@@RenMakesMusic ALL THE BLESSINGS TO YOU, MY FRIEND!! I'VE RECENTLY STARTED TO HEAR AND WATCH YOUR MUSIC, AND I LOVE IT!!! DEFINITELY, YOU INSPIRED SO MANY PEOPLE; SO HANG ON, KEEP FIGHTING IN THIS ETERNAL DANCE. YOU AND YOUR MUSIC MAKE THIS WORLD A BETTER PLACE!!! 🤘🏼🎶

[@Aladinsarsipius]

@@RenMakesMusic get well soon Ren the world needs your insight into life and your talent at communicating it

[@ralphmunn1685]

Bro, your level of empathy and compassion is something I've feared our world is losing touch with. Thank you for being here. 🙏

[@plutoloco2378]

You’re a soy boy.

[@barrettdc1]

You live in a small world and listen to the news too much. There is so much compassion and love in the world yet no one seems to see it because they choose to believe the man or woman on the TV says. Shut that off and do something meaningful with your life and connect with your community and you will see the generosity and kindness on this planet. I can emphasize with this artist "Ren" but he is simply a product of his generation. Subverted and pushed to seek psychiatry is my guess from this song. Eat healthy and work on yourself and live a meaningful life and I promise you that you will be happy.

[@denttech2515]

Beautiful comment

[@duanem.5738]

Perfect comment bro.

[@petersadler87]

Mike, suicide survivor x 2 here. (Clearly not very good at it) This is such an important video. Thank you for covering it. Thank you for your ongoing support in your videos for those of us with demons and addictions. I promise you, your voice is massive in this regard. Your point about immediately regretting the decision is correct. Despite the drugs/alcohol concoction, a moment of sobriety stands in that moment. I’ve never been more sober than in those 10 seconds. Every day is still a battle for me, but videos like this make it a little easier to know that someone gets it. Peace ✌🏻

[@markpeavy4005]

Peter, I'm so glad you "suck" at this one thing but I'd put money on you that you are very good at many things. Maybe, some things music related since you are here listening to Michael. Demons and addictions (maybe the same thing) are very tough but you can do it!

[@petersadler87]

@@markpeavy4005 ha, not sure about good at music but it certainly makes me happy! Thanks for the message man :)

[@4dogs999]

My goodness your sense of humor is truly twisted and amazing! That will keep you going on the darkest day. Take care of you

[@youtubernaz1scensoredbythe201]

Same. I used to take 6 mg of Xanax a day, just to cope. Thank God, I'm in a better place now, but like Ren said, "It's an eternal dance" You aren't alone.✌️🤟❤️

[@wizardflaps]

Stay in the fight, Pete. You got this.

[@papawheelie1645]

Hey Michael! I HIGHLY recommend you do a video for "The tale of Jenny and Screech"! Esp because of the phenomenal guitar skills. This guy just so amazingly musically talented in so many ways. His story telling is fantastic!

[@bakaboi5730]

I've been listening to Ren for YEARS on end and I'm so happy to see him finally get the attention he deserves, he is such an insanely talented artist and has helped me through some tough times.

[@average_trans_furry]

ive been listening to him since demos volume 1. seeing ren get the widespread success makes me so happy.

[@dizzysosilly]

same here...sort of jealous others are catching up now lol but he deserves all of the attention for sure

[@swiftyyy870]

@@dizzysosilly I wish I knew about him sooner tbh , only just found out about him and im so happy hes releasing an album soon, gonna have a great month in April listening to that and NFs new album. So far this is my favourite, The Hunger is second and Genesis 3rd

[@bethabdallah6518]

He's one of those artists that I WISH I'd been listening to for years. He blows my mind. He's so young, he's been desperately ill half his life and he still can be this incredible. I hope he becomes successful and happy beyond his wildest dreams.

[@Poopbutt2134]

Lmao, it is sad so many greats r out there we will never hear of. I don’t see him trying to help others is what turned me away

[@tammywilliams2035]

Ren is totally amazing... I end up crying through half of his songs. They are so moving. just found him today and have been searching through watching all his videos I can find. What a storyteller he is.

[@slademmxii8759]

ive been avoiding watching more ren just cuz how hard hi ren hit. this put me in tears. bad. god this is beautiful. and powerful.

[@TotalWealth]

I was just thinking the same thing… I see a lot of recommendations for Jenny and Screech, the 25 minute trilogy… and I’m just not ready for it! Still listening to and processing hi Ren

[@billyc3772]

Ren is my new therapist and the reaction videos are my therapy sessions. 🙂

[@yvonneschlame8657]

These réaction videos to Ren are becoming a whole new thing of their own. What a beautiful human reaction this one was, too. Thank you, your take on music is really inspiring 🦋

[@aprilkurtz1589]

Check out Hi Ren. Sometimes you have to take meds AND work on yourself. That's how it works for some people.

[@myhomeonthenet3120]

Everyone is talking about the song “Hi Ren” as much as all his others are incredible, Hi Ren is the one that people have been recently falling over themselves to push out there and worthy this outpouring is too. Much love to you all, Ch’O

[@guitarkyle]

Yep, should have picked, Hi Ren. Ah well. Hopefully folks will discover that one after this video. It would also be super cool to see a review of Jenny's, Screech's, and Violet's tale all together in one video since they are all connected.

[@NorthMaybe]

Yes MP you need to review/watch Hi REN

[@tommarkowskimusic]

Checked out Hi Ren after reading this and I don't think I've ever seen anything like it in my life. So... good? Good doesn't seem to cover it quite right but wow am I glad I watched it.

[@myhomeonthenet3120]

@@guitarkyle I’ve got a feeling after reading these comments that he might just take a look at “Hi Ren” saying that though I’ve had so many Hi Ren reaction video recommendations recently it’s quite heartwarming to see Ren has most definitely made his worthy mark. Much love, Ch’O

[@myhomeonthenet3120]

@@NorthMaybe Agreed. Much love, Ch’O

[@firstbornunicorn1545]

As someone else said, you do know Ren. You reacted to him in his band the Big Push doing "Wade in the Water." Glad he's finally getting the recognition he deserves. Also, a note to anyone who may not know, this song is recorded live and in one take. Quite impressive.

[@CarrickMcAllister]

The Tale of Jenny and Screech is the song/s you need to hear.

[@thecharlesjohnson]

He has to do the trilogy.

[@NilZed1]

Now that I’m onto Ren I’ve found several reactors that did the Big Push or a Sam and Ren busking video and haven’t made the connection. Some were years ago like this but a few are within the last year.

[@slaterbater1988]

I like your read on the part "Such a perfect day, take it just in case." For me though... It sounds like he's talking about his meds. I'm bipolar and manage it with a couple of meds. I've been symptom free for about a year now. The temptation to stop talking my meds when everything is going smoothly is always there... But my meds are why everything is going smoothly.

[@reese2940]

Your take seems like what Ren was talking about. My initial assumption was about drugs/alc, "Im feeling great today, I should go drink with some friends... I'm feeling shit today I gotta drink away my feelings". Like you gotta take the good days to recover and break the cycle, dont try to cure the pain when its not there 'Just in case'

[@Alnilam1973]

Ren is a once in a lifetime artist, what I love is his focus on lyrical storytelling that's the focus of his tracks and his vocals deliver in an at time unsettling way but isn't that wht art is for? To make you look at the world ina different way

[@verified.my2cents]

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

[@chelfyn]

As soon as I found Hi Ren I started sharing with my firends, and I noticed many of them started doing the same. His fanbase is expanding, and it's crossing geographical, cultural, political and age lines. He is going to be huge, and he deserves it.

[@injectilio]

@@chelfyn I really just don't understand the huge amount of love for this song. The content is perennial; it's just slightly against the norm right now. If you go back 10 years, there are many songs about this. It is both unfortunately and fortunately not a unique message, but it's the version that is coming out right now. It feels contrived and self-conscious to me. Is it really authentic if you say, "I'm going to make this as authentic as possible?" As someone who is unfortunately well versed in the topic matter, the musicality doesn't even match the content. I'm sure I'm missing something about this, but most of the comments here mostly boil down to: "We haven't heard this message in a while, and it is important." Totally agree it's important, but the vocals in this song don't remotely match the lyrics.

[@deborahlester4018]

@@chelfyn I'm a 70 year old woman in the southern US. Huge huge fan. If it helps, you all should know that although some really bad things have happened in the course of my time, it was all a gift. Every bit of it. I look back and I am grateful for the lessons in the pain. Wait for it.

[@gregm55mullen62]

As I said before Bro.. Ren is the enemy of the Grammys.. he doesn’t intend to.. but he makes it look like such a pukefest…

[@dirtydianasanchez8267]

Oh, my heart. Can it sing and shatter at the same time like this?! Thank you, Ren.

[@bluevains]

Hi Ren is a must a master piece of music don't miss it you will be sorry .

[@MegaDELROY]

Michael...what can I say? You are a truly good geezer. Beyond teaching musical tricks, chords and scales. You bring in this wonderful, talented young man, who has to endure a pathology that forces him in bed...and you give a reading of the song, the situation, the meaning, in the most humane way possible. This is what KZbinr channels like yours should be about, offering the whole picture, instead of focusing on a stylistic detail. And you just do that, for which I can only be grateful.

[@izanagisoh1883]

In the gallows I'm balanced on my toes so I can breathe - I take the meaning as Ren wants to live so badly he is desperately clinging onto life in whatever way he can

[@Lagrangeify]

Absolutely my take too. The noose isn't a choice, it was put there. Trying to live despite everything rather than struggling with whether you want to or not.

[@nathanchohany8169]

Not expect to wake up and being disappointed at the time. There are always tears in my eye evrytime i listen to this song. Their voices beautiful.

[@vandyman9957]

Ren is amazing - Hi Ren is the song you want MP

[@jimkordahl9490]

Michael, I just became a recent scribber to your channel for the music and guitar theory aspects you bring. Love what you do. I did not see this song coming. It will be 31 years ago soon since the brother took his final decision to leave life. The ripples of that decision hit more often than I'd care to admit. I wish I'd heard these profound lyrics 31 years ago, I wish my brother had heard them 31 years ago. Thanks for not glossing over the truth of the profound subject matter. Everybody's life will change forever and certainly will never be the same. The lyrics got so heavy and direct that I was stopped in my tracks.

[@warmoth68]

This was a one take studio track.. all the imperfections are left in to add soul to the song. This is a deep song! All REN’s songs are deep.. Written from a personal perspective. A little disturbing,but it hits an emotional chord in all of us.

[@cockneycharm3970]

Hear, hear. Agreed 👍

[@msammon1]

Suggested below but don't miss out on his piece 'Hi REN', it explains him and his journey with depth and power, it's courageous and unlike anything else out there, it also shows a lot more of his ability on guitar and how he explores and arranges. Seriously don't miss out, if not for the channel do it for yourself it will touch you....

[@overshotelf2964]

100% agree.

[@svenbolling3888]

Do 'Hi Ren'. Now. No really, do it. Please.

[@tynce563]

It’s so interesting how song lyrics can resonate in so many different ways. In my mind when I heard the “it’s a beautiful day, take it anyway.” I interpreted that as those days where you actually start out feeling ok but maybe take a drug, or your antidepressants, as a buffer anyways. I think when you struggle with chronic depression it’s a common feeling to fear just how long any given moment of relief will last without anticipating a fall again to where you were.

[@PolNqn]

Knowing his history of misdiagnosis and also having listened to Sick Boi (... "Take another pill, here, take a couple more. Let see how you're doing in another week or so" ... ), I'd say your interpretation is on point. Although of course, he's probably playing with that duality of interpretations himself.

[@ScottDJohnston]

As others have mentioned, "Hi Ren" was the first song from Ren I had heard, and it is seriously a must-view. I haven't been affected by a song that much in a very long time. It has a similar theme to this, but cranks up the intensity a lot..

[@angeladee8789]

Ren is brilliant. You realise how overused the words like brilliant, genius, talented and exceptional are, when you spend time getting to know rens art, and truely need to use those words to set him apart from the rest.of.the.best.in.the.world. and they fall short.

[@dragon2knight]

As a person with a mental illness, believe me whan I say all of this is very, very true. Suicide is not to be taken lightly. You're not weak thinking like this, sometimes it's where your condition takes you, sometimes you really truly feel like it's the ONLY WAY. I survived two different attempts when I was younger. Before I knew I had an illness. I survived...and I understand why I did. One day at a time. Glad I took up guitar at the age of 57. Thanks for helping me on my journey Michael, it's appreciated.

[@theubercaste]

Only the strongest man can do what the weakest cannot. Me

[@obscurelines]

Power to you.

[@riceflatpicking4954]

I’m glad you’re here Micheal

[@dragon2knight]

@@riceflatpicking4954 So am I 😚

[@nickilee1587]

Thankyou Michael 🙏 it is a very hard space to navigate when it is just so very clear that IS the only option available. It is a very lonely space. Music saves me in times I feel this way. 'Hi Ren' resonated with me on many levels. I also liked his speech at the end, so, so true. I'm always so distraught when my feelings of eternal sadness return, I'd like to remember I'm in a dance between light and dark 💜 Take Care my friend.🤘

[@tommauro3052]

I clicked on this just to check in and what you have done in reviewing this has sparked a feeling of gratitude that my demons haven't go the best of me. 8 months clean as of yesterday!! God bless

[@patriciamoon4469]

He has a song called Freckled Angels about a dear friend he lost it is a beautiful song. I am 63 Years old and I am so proud of this young man having strength dealing with lime disease and other health issues. His singing and artistic work is his strength.Hi REN is a must see!

[@nightshade7240]

The truth about suicide and attempting suicide is simply this. The ones who "succeed" are the ones who go quick. Attempting suicide is against everything our make up tells us. It's anathema to everything we are and attempting suicide is a moment of exhaustion, a moment of true insanity. If you don't do it quick, no matter how badly you hurt yourself, you can still hit a moment of clarity. That's really the crux of it. If you are left to linger, you hit that moment of clarity and self preservation and you react accordingly. Committing suicide isn't about weakness. Some of the strongest people have committed suicide in that moment of insanity. In that moment of just needing not to be. They probably didn't even want to exit off the mortal coil, they just didn't see another way because the exhaustion distorts perception. An important part of this song is that eye contact between them. That bridge of empathy they experience because they have a similar baseline. That strength they draw from knowing they aren't alone. Taking medication can destroy everything you are, your creativity, your potential. We trace ourselves in these chalk outlines because you have to comply with medication or they will refuse to help you.

[@ClearTheRubble7]

Ren sings and raps about dark subjects in a way that cheers me up--cheers a lot of us up. I was on the suicide subway myself, at one time, but at the last minute I called a hotline. Life didn't immediately get better afterwards, but it surely did after a while. Your reaction was excellent, insightful, thoughtful.

[@barking_mad6649]

This is good (all his stuff is), but Hi Ren was the song you were looking for! An absolute piece of art. Best song and performance I've seen in many years. Agree with your views on this 👍

[@danlahrman5395]

Agreed. Would be great to see Michael cover Hi Ren. That piece is something else.

[@ThePhilPeterson]

Hi Ren is the best 9 minutes of per art that I have ever seen. Mesmerizing. I was transfixed the first time I saw it.

[@avalondreaming1433]

Ren is the most down to Earth guy you could ever meet. He deserves every success! Incredible talent. I found him about 3 years ago with the Big Push busking performances in Brighton England.

[@raph655]

Yup I recommended HI REN on a comment a little bit ago. I the guy is good and multitalented. I personally love most of his stuff, dating back to many many years. 7-8 years ago, and the guy has great music

[@tmotnlr]

“Do anything except the work on you” - nailed it ❤

[@somemoresomewhere1262]

Chinchilla's voice is soooo pretty. The emotional desperation, wonderfully expressed. Great song, great pairing.

[@rblnk123]

Someone I know just committed suicide. He left information saying he felt like no one liked him and that he didnt fit in. He had so many people at the funeral that people couldn’t fit in the church. Our minds sometimes keep us from realizing that we are loved and we are important. Hopefully this will lead more people like me to be intentional in showing others they are important and not just assuming they know

[@notmyname327]

Fuck, I'm rewatching this and crying. I love your reaction to this one. And I love this song. Great video all around,

[@adamturner8732]

Anyone notice aecond chorus harmony REN clearly goes for it with her in the moment and kills the notes I mean nails them in full voice. That's pure moment fill. Anyone who sings knows what I mean by that feeling to "Get there"

[@SnailHatan]

Gonna recommend Hi Ren like everyone else, but also Violet’s Tale

[@barking_mad6649]

The twist in Violet and Screech's Tale reminds me of Immortal Technique and Dance with the Devil.

[@SGI999]

You’ve met Ren previously looking at a busking performance by The Big Push. Loved that and love this. Ren Gill has a body of self produced work that is wide ranging. His mates from the currently disbanded The Big Push are, and have been making great unique music that is well worth a listen. Very talented musicians lyricists and singers in their own right. Thank you for looking at Chalk Outlines. It has that simplicity so that the message hits you straight on with a BANG❗️

[@JohnnieButtersonline]

im shocked he didn't noticed that.

[@gavin2678]

You have to check out Hi Ren as well it such a great tune

[@mendoza7763]

Versatility is one of the many great things about Ren. Very few people have done a Chalk Outlines reaction, and if this is the first you've seen of Ren, prepare to be amazed when you see what else he can do. "Hi Ren" and "The Tale of Jenny and Screech (Full)" are the two obvious choices to blow your mind, and they're both guitar-based. He's also a great rapper, making both humorous ("What You Want", "1990s") and topical ("Money Game, Pt. 2") songs.

[@andycopland3179]

What you want is beastie boys. It's great.

[@urielsvk]

I never heard anything like the tale of jenny and screech. One of the most unique and awesome things i ever heard

[@guesswho2827]

Don't forget violates tale too. Really rounds out the tale.

[@fool1shmortal]

It’s amazing how many of these young guys (NF, Tom McDonald, and Ren, to name those I have recently found by KZbin), mostly rapping and singing some, are pouring their soul out in these songs about hanging on, despite internal torment, whether they screwed up earlier in life or not. Last popular music I recall that did that was maybe REM with “Everybody Hurts”, but I haven’t been following newer music for several years. Well, these days are pretty good for that material.

[@johnpark9712]

Hey Michael! I love your channel and have watched a ton of your vids. You are so insightful and so human. I caught this one on my way to bed tonight, of all nights, which marks 1 year since my wife took her life. It's crazy that it's been a year. I think often about how she must have felt in the moments before she made her final decision. It hurts to know that someone you love had to stand at the edge of the abyss in their final moments. Her battle with mental illness is over now and we all carry the little pieces of her with us. Those of us who have been touched by suicide view life differently and I completely appreciate your humanity and compassion. I feel like I hear music and really pull something special from it, but somehow your perspective adds something even more. Thanks for all you do brother. You make this world a better place.

[@Gr33n_Mari0]

That was an amazing analysis of that song, with some seriously good insights. Like the man said earlier, love that T.S. Elliot quote :)

[@jhjwarren]

That really resonated with me. “We’ve thought about, romanticised about it, felt guilty about it but also kind of like it”. That is me exactly,

[@kevinmckinney9436]

Had it not been for HI REN I wouldn't have discovered him, just like so many have recently, but HI REN, to me, is a freaking masterpiece. I expected that this video was going to cover that song. Nevertheless, REN is something special. Glad to see he's getting his props now.

[@nathanspiers914]

I swear to God, you're the first reactor after the song finished I actually listened to what you had to say. Your take, your investment your passion. Man, keep it up, its appreciated.

[@codyfromhumanresources6435]

I also missed the gallows line until you pointed it out. I had a friend take his own life a while back. And you’re so right about trying to take it back, he kicked holes in the wall trying to find a place to stand so he could breathe. It makes it even sadder imagining those last moments of desperation, and no control over his situation. I was also suicidal at that point in my life, and hearing about his trying to go back made me rethink a lot of things. As sad as it is, in some way or another I have him to thank for my being alive today.

[@andycopland3179]

T.S Elliot getting referenced just made my fucking day.

[@10ekrom]

This is one of my FAVORITE Ren songs. He's an amazing artist, musician, and human. PLEASEEEEEE react to Hi Ren, and then also......Jenny's Tale, Screech's Tale, and lastly Violet's Tale...in that SPECIFIC order. The guitar playing, the live one takes, the lyrics....A MASTERPIECE. Your mind will be blown!!!

[@bashab3098]

Thanks for the TS Elliot it sits so well alongside Chalk Outlines drawn so powerfully by Ren x Chinchilla, I came for your reaction I’m moved by your insight and understanding ❤

[@madMARTYNmarsh1981]

It's been just over a year since my psychotic break, I was found naked by a flooded river, I don't remember much about the day other than waking up with the conviction that that day was the day and being a poor swimmer, having no access to a firearm, a flooded river seemed like a logical choice for some reason. I'm told I had neatly folded my clothes and piled them up. I don't regret it, my only regret is that I delayed my intention. I don't have the courage to do that on a normal day but on that day something that I can't put into words happened in my head that made it seem like my only way out of life. It is probably hard for some to understand but I've lived from Affective Psychosis for 20 years, I've suffered with Complex Regional Pain Syndrome for over 10 years. I am sick of existing, but I want to live, I just don't want to exist in the broken shell I'm stuck with.

[@sirwilliamraleigh2100]

This is wonderful but I will add my voice also to the chorus of those who were just blown away by "hi ren" (that I stumbled upon today on youtube.) Fucking magnum opus and a true piece of art! a modern day bohemium rhapsody. Horray for music!

[@IntoTheVerticalBlank]

You didn't miss it by doing this tune. This is quite an incredible song too. Great job on the analysis.

[@JensRandolff]

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

[@BenBallard-hp8sk]

"When you're happy you love the melody. When you're sad you understand the lyrics."

[@alysmarcus7747]

i liked what you said about that 'last minute' - Ren mentions this again in Hi Ren, as the voice of hope, the voice you hear when the rope loosens - i know i don't have all that there. I was in a bad place when i first heard Ren and his music and energy pulled me out - gave me that day, and the next one. And that beautiful simplicity of the music. Ren is really talented , he really gets how to do this, no matter if he is quick rapping - i hear every word. Gold

[@seventhsonmedia]

Michael, on your channel, I enjoy your analysis of the guitar in a song. I'm nearly 37, but I didn't become truly fascinated with the instrument until my mid to late 20s. Finally, at the age of 35, I decided to pick one up myself and it truly has changed my life. However, this reaction video has truly taken your content to another level. I am grateful that you are watching these videos without having any context going in, because your candid and unscripted reaction to this song and its heavy-hitting message shows just what an incredible person you are. Thank you.

[@GavinSummers]

yes

[@youtubernaz1scensoredbythe201]

I knew the day would come, where I'd have to share him with the world. Happy for Ren, but sad for me....

[@JennyAnton]

I feel exactly like that too.

[@nancymjohnson]

Back in the day, it was festival seating where seats weren’t assigned (floor usually) we all had blankets and towels..and we would get up and jam. What has been lost in younger generations is respect for anyone else

[@andreaskeil204]

if you need an example for somone being really passionate about something...watch this...especially the last part...love it

[@jppagetoo]

Talent meets a monent of destiny. Ren's "Hi Ren" touched a nerve. If Ren didn't have the ability to pull off these songs they wouldn't have the impact they do. A great song meets a great perfomance. I hope Ren finds peace where he is going, he does not have an easy road ahead by his own admission. Thanks Ren, keep making music for us all.

[@brooktaylor6920]

Michael, REN is the former lead vocalist and bass player for The Big Push which you covered before in a great video. The evolution of an artist.

[@JohnSynnott]

‘Swallowing pain with yesterday’s rain’ Heard that amazing line from a poet in The Circle Sessions in Bray, Co Wicklow, Ireland, many years ago… can’t remember his name unfortunately.

[@ryanguertin8028]

Today is the greatest day I've ever known/ can't live for tomorrow, tomorrow's just too long. Ren is a damn god send. Old story, but new. Waiting on some more SP, my friend! Similar stories.........

[@waynefanning2399]

Michael, I just wanted to say Thank you for this video and your review and commentary of Hi Ren as well. I must admit I have never heard of Ren, but these two videos have been amazing. Being the parent of a daughter who has many struggles with mental illness, I have seen her stare the demon in the face on many occasions. I have seen her walk to the edge and look in vain for reasons to step back instead of over. I have shared these videos with her in hopes that they can get through to her what I have never been able to put into words, in hopes that she can balance on her toes just one more day, so she can breathe.

[@CaliforniaLionsFan]

Michael, thank you SO much for creating this channel. I only stumbled across it a few days ago. Probably because of my interest in Coulter, Shakey, Tyler Childers, etc... You have awesome content guided down the path of your subscribers... well done sir!! I stumbled on this one yesterday. My brother had severe addiction issues, and mental issues. His suicide and having to go into his apartment to find him was/is haunting, and feeling like WHAT COULD I HAVE DONE DIFFERENTLY?? It is something that has controlled my mind for 8+ years. I already am starting to understand some things listening to some of your content...a huge thanks for that. I am also a "stuck" guitar player. I am going to jump on your site and sign up to learn from you.

[@Hughmonte]

We write these songs so we can heal. Music is very personal but easily applied over vast emotional substrates. It's a way to find peace in chaos. It's sublime.

[@vitamind1200]

Pheeeww! Music is in good hamds folks. What a powerful freaking song.

[@rosskl]

I'm in tears watching this. This is so relevant to someone very dear to me. Thank you. On a different note, the whole blanket/tarp issue has been raging in the Phish community for a while now.

[@Guitargate]

Glad it touched something in you. It certainly did me. Oh I’m sure. I can’t imagine that flying in any other scene / genre… except maybe kids shows.

[@sunshadow8601]

@@Guitargate you probably won’t see this comment… anyhooow. Check out his video “REN - Violet’s Tale”. Look closely…. It’s a live recording. At first I thought “not possible” the lapel mic is just a gimmick but (to my ears at least) the change in reverb confirms it 🤯

[@Brndndutton]

Such a powerful message and song writing. Love REN. 💙

[@didierblasco8116]

All the blessing to Ren and you too of course

[@00xanawolf00]

As a former Paramedic (I was injured in the line of duty and never had the chance to put on the uniform ever again), I picked up bodies and I treated and transported survivors. Suicides. Attempted suicides. The ones who lived all said the same exact thing: The second they jumped or swallowed the “X” or pulled the (you know what), etc., they all felt this overwhelming and immediate sense that they just made the biggest mistake of their lives. All of them felt the same thing. They all knew the same thing. The bottom line: Don’t ever give up. Ever. One of the best antidotes for pain and fear and depression is selflessly helping others. There’s something... magical... spiritual... it’s one of the big Laws... helping others helps ourselves. Well look at that! Maybe I’m still saving lives.

[@neilb5305]

I usually watch your videos to learn some good guitar information, licks, theory etc. but found your commentary on this artist very powerful and moving. As someone that has been fighting depression and bi-polar issues their entire life, I always found myself turning to the guitar / music for expression and solace. Maybe it's a generational thing, but I never thought of ending myself as an option. This gift of life you have been given is a marvel and you only go around once. Cherish it all.

[@sherirx]

Just love this channel. My favorite on KZbin. Thanks for introducing me to this artist. My husband’s brother committed suicide in 1997 before I met him. His family has dedicated themselves to suicide prevention. I appreciate your openness and willingness to speak about mental health. ❤

[@rexduffy7881]

From the days of Trick the Fox to Love music (Twenty tracks still available on Bandcamp ) to Freckled Angles and The Big Push, Ren knows how to play great music,writes insightful lyrics and knows how to tug at human emotions. Can never get enough of this guy.

[@denisesf5]

Michael. You are my magnifying glass. Thank you.❤️🇨🇦

[@cas9065]

Well put.

[@MrBluegrouse]

Your reactions about heavy stuff are important. You have a very good way of talking about the subjects. Would really love to hear you react to How To Be Me (live version) by these same two. Exceptional and important.

[@Dizzle7771]

I've been a Ren fan for years. I am praying he conquers his health struggles and becomes the massive star that the world needs 🙏

[@chrisparti]

Loved your reaction, not the usual guitar lead reaction, and rightly so, you nailed it. The 'traced', and 'erased' chalk outlines analogy hit me so hard. If you have ever taken anti-depressants (I have been through 6 different anti-depressant medication cycles in as many years), they take away who you are inside, you no longer feel anything, you become emotionally stifled, you are just a 'chalk outline' of who you used to be. the line 'you erase yourself in a chalk outline' is exactly that... you erase who you are in this chalk outline... it is so eloquent and such a perfect analogy for me, it might mean something else to somebody else, but this is what it meant to me. I wish I had heard this years ago, but I suppose I had to wait until Ren had written it first. 😀

[@Audiostyleable]

Half way through and I am done 100% subscribed please more ren

[@deano6410]

Everyone is talking about Ren, but not for this track. Check ‘Hi Ren’

[@jonnyg177]

Got the wrong song, you want "Hi Ren"

[@robinjaime]

Oh I’ve subbed. You know. You feel it. You hear it. You’ll sing it. I just LOVE it. I want to learn guitar so I can share my voice. My singing.

[@MrMrmysteria]

Yep, we all waited for “Hi Ren” reaction…..but this one is great as well.

[@dougoneill7266]

This is the 3rd song I have seen from this artist. I loved them all but the 1st one, 'Hi Ren' made a huge impression on me.

[@AmazingSheep]

I follow you for a while and i love your reactions. Im European and this guy is amazing! Doesn't belong to anyone and produces such great songs. Such freedom develops to such great things!

[@misssnitty]

...Also a survivor of the depths of feeling like nothing and having no hope... still struggling after losing everything that ever mattered to me. Hope I will see the light again soon... a decade of dark and loneliness, I'm still here.

[@ChrisLawton66]

This is great too and I'm happy you covered it. "Hi Ren" is the one that is getting a lot of attention at the moment.

[@jefffurst1003]

Thank you Michael!! I appreciate your attention to mental health issues etc. In addition to all your great advice on playing.

[@Danion17]

I have never, in all my years of watching this platform, seen a title for a video "required viewing" before 😂. Seems so accurate for a ren reaction ❤

[@jeffmartin_UK]

Absolutely great and insightful reaction. Thank you.

[@edzion6433]

Please do "Hi Ren" Mike!

[@musicaddict1046]

I remember watching your The Big Push reaction probably over a year back and being so happy they were getting at least a tiny bit of recognition by an awesome reaction KZbinr. Fast forward to now, the band currently not playing together anymore, but "Hi Ren" making big waves throughout the music reaction side of KZbin and Ren finally being exposed to more people. I'm really glad he is, because just as back then, I truly believe in the power his music holds and his indescribable passion for it. He's an absolute powerhouse but also just a lovely guy, I'll always think fondly of when I met him and the rest of TBP on their tour last year. I'm excited to see where your journey through his material takes you and can't wait for you to get a chance to fall in love with his music, too. Lots of love, brother. Keep at it.

[@guidoscalise]

The band is still playing together, they are on hiatus while Ren gets treated for Lyme disease. I watched them play live at the Brighton Dome back in September 2022 and they were absolutely mind-blowing.

[@musicaddict1046]

@@guidoscalise I know, that's why I said currently. ;) Busking as TBP would be kinda hard with a fourth of the band in Canada. But yeah, my family and I caught them in August at their last show before they got Covid last year, they are incredible. 💛

[@Damien-qk7in]

Never watched your channel Michael, but you're a soul brother. That's for sure.

[@kevinfromttt]

Love this so much! Glad I found your channel tonight ❤

[@diorio5289]

I wanted to hate this so much when it first started. By the end I was almost in tears. Great song writing and powerful message. Definitely going to check out more.

[@shazza175]

You actually reacted to Ren a couple years ago with the band Big Push. He is an Artist with a capital "A". And I reiterate what others are saying. All his stuff is cool but you must go watch Hi Ren. It is something else entirely. I also love the trilogy of Violet, Jenny and Screetch. You must watch all three and in order.