I'm So F***ing Proud Of Ren.

I'm so proud of him. Ren's album has independently made it to Number 1 in the UK Charts! What an incredible achievement. Today I'm going to look at his latest release Money Game Part 3. Have a look at the other parts if you get chance and let's celebrate Ren's great success!!
Tickets for Justin Hawkins Rides Again LIVE go on sale Friday 27th at 10am here: www.axs.com/uk...
Dates:
18th March - Norwich LCR UEA
19th March - Bristol St George's
20th March - Sheffield Memorial Hall
21st March - Glasgow The Glee Club
22nd March - Gateshead The Glasshouse Sage 2
24th March - London Bloomsbury Theatre
25th March - Hayes The Beck Theatre
26th March - Cardiff The Glee Club
27th March - Birmingham The Glee Club
29th March - Manchester Salford The Lowry
30th March - Liverpool St George's Hall
31st March - Leeds City Varieties Music Hall
Join my special Mailing List here to get emails from me about stuff you might like: beacons.ai/jus...
Get a Justin Hawkins Rides Again T-Shirt & Hoodie here: thejawsofvicto...
I do monthly Zoom Call Nights over on my Patreon, they're A LOT of fun: / jushawk
Justin Hawkins Rides Again...The Podcast. You can listen on Apple Podcast, Spotify etc: open.spotify.c...
The Darkness are going on a World Tour this year to celebrate the 20th Anniversary of Permission to Land - get your tickets here: www.thedarknes...
#ren #moneygame #review

[@JustinHawkinsRidesAgain]

Tickets for Justin Hawkins Rides Again UK Tour go on sale Friday 27th at 10am here: www.axs.com/uk/series/19790/live-justin-hawkins-rides-again-for-the-first-time-tickets?skin=aegpresentsuk Dates: 18th March - Norwich LCR UEA 19th March - Bristol St George's 20th March - Sheffield Memorial Hall 21st March - Glasgow The Glee Club 22nd March - Gateshead The Glasshouse Sage 2 24th March - London Bloomsbury Theatre 25th March - Hayes The Beck Theatre 26th March - Cardiff The Glee Club 27th March - Birmingham The Glee Club 29th March - Manchester Salford The Lowry 30th March - Liverpool St George's Hall 31st March - Leeds City Varieties Music Hall

[@alancraig782]

Looking forward to seeing you in Glasgae 😂 saw the Darkness when you were with The Hollywood Vampires and thought you guys stole the show. Just out of curiosity have you seen Ren's Money Game part 1 & part 2? So glad he got number 1 and for getting his CD. Hope to see you guys getting number 1 as well. All the best!

[@caupain66]

Are you coming to the U.S.?? I want to see y’all live!!!

[@CorkElectric40]

Yes.... Would love to see you in San Francisco.. bro..... Godspeed on this endeavor... Cheers.... respect and❤

[@bobnot.]

🔥🏆🧠💥

[@bobnot.]

Brain fire🧠💥

[@PeteFindsObscureStuff]

You should also be proud Justin as you were one of the first reactors to Hi Ren. That was the start of the Ren Rollercoaster for many thousands of people. Thank you!!!

[@CasperLD]

100%

[@spridle]

He wasn't anywhere close to being one of the first.

[@PeteFindsObscureStuff]

@@spridle all right smarty pants. Provide a chronological list of Hi Ren reactors!! Dates/times etc.

[@fourcornersofbrighton]

I agree, your support has been helpful to him and as fans, we appreciate this! Thanks from me as well. Much love to both you and to our boy, Ren!❤

[@dogfish2859]

Thank you for putting me into Ren Justin ❤

[@darthmelsie]

The amount of reactors that have followed him and are now being his biggest cheerleaders is so fucking wholesome. Like there's an entire community on youtube basically saying in unison: "That's my baby and I'm proud". It's been an absolute joy to watch. Man's earned it.

[@lastspud7030]

At the point the gun came out I started to feel deeply uncomfortable with the direction Ren was taking... but wow just wow....... what a performance I concour its fucking brilliant

[@darthmelsie]

@@lastspud7030I was actually really relieved that in the stream chat I wasn't the only person going "finger stays OFF the trigger!!!" lmao

[@mattyball]

“Earned it” like with his buddy Sam Tomkins. Love that performance by them.

[@karadan100]

Dude needed all the luck in the world. Glad to see the universe aligned for him.

[@bookerwills8649]

Some literally just used him... money game I guess... not Justin just to be sure

[@stevevandevender8319]

I blame you for introducing me to Ren when I saw your reaction to "Hi Ren" back in March. Watching him take over the world, as you predicted, has been a sheer delight.

[@P_p_Br0]

Was that in march? Feels like a few weeks ago tbh

[@robinwallace1399]

I’m the same mate Ren addiction activated😉

[@guerilliagazelle]

same here 😀

[@zerofox3d]

Same!

[@annebiebrich9155]

Same

[@DeeLayy87]

The way he half sings 'money game' at the end is harking back to Money Game Parts 1 and 2.

[@ArtistLisaM]

I'm a mod in his Discord and hosted a listening party for the results. When it was announced that his album was #1, all of us were screaming and crying, lol. He's worked so hard to achieve this, and all of us are beyond happy for him.

[@frolleinvonsoundso7044]

Goddamn, I missed this. Just followed through BBC and the FB group, thinking about a proper chat. 💔

[@guerilliagazelle]

Yes, I was there, it was so crazy good to share this moment with you all. Thanks again for hosting it

[@serendipitish]

I was there too, such a moment! So glad I was able to share it with others, thank you!

[@DarylNotDead]

He has a discord? Where please 😊

[@jjtotheb]

Can you send the link please

[@ZuzuTheLemon]

Ren really does seem like a lovely boy. It gives me proper hope in my cold dead heart to see a genuine artist get the recognition they deserve. 😁

[@janmulcahy1458]

Cold dead heart 😂😂😂❤️

[@jeffconnelly1284]

certainly refreshing

[@ckinahan1]

I loved that he did that because that announcement, that win, that victory - it was not theirs. They didn't play him into the #1 spot. He did. His supporters and followers and hard fought and harder won community of boots on the ground newsies shouting from every corner that something they should know about had happened in between newspaper publications. This absolutely includes the reactor community which spread him like wildfire but thoughtfully and with the good intention that he brought back to us as listeners and consumers. It was grass roots. It was humble. It was classy as fuck. So I'm glad he sat with his friends in Canada and learned of his success just as his fans did. That was the moment he worked so fucking hard for. His whole team did. His community, the Renegades, those were the voices that boosted him to his well-deserved top. Not the radio stations. So, bravo Ren. Thank you for sharing that moment with us on YT. We love and appreciate you!

[@NinStardust]

Ren is epic. Can we please take a moment to acknowledge & appreciate the fact that at one point in this video he is simultaneously singing, acting and *solving a Rubik’s cube* ! 🤯 Also Samuel - the director - NEEDS to receive ALL the awards for his work on Ren’s music videos. Hi Ren, Animal Flow, Sick Boi, Violet’s tale, Murderer, Money Game 3… every video is seamless. The filmography is always outstanding. I’ve seen Hi Ren more times than I can count and I’m STILL blown away by the lighting effects. It’s subtle enough that it doesn’t distract from the singing or acting and yet it’s setting the mood and tension throughout the song. Phenomenal. So proud of Ren & honoured to be one of the 6,000 to help him hit number 1. No one deserves it more 💖🥹🥰

[@stevevandevender8319]

Samuel Perry-Falvey definitely deserves a huge amount of credit for working with Ren to create cinematically brilliant videos, but a couple of the videos you mention, Animal Flow and Murderer, were filmed by one of Ren's other filmmaking collaborators, Luke Flegg.

[@NinStardust]

⁠@@stevevandevender8319 Thanks! 🥰 I know other people are involved but couldn’t remember which ones were specifically Sam’s. Now you mention it, it’s obvious that Animal Flow in particular has a different director. Still brilliant but there’s definitely a different feel/vibe to it. Also didn’t know Sam’s surname, so thanks for that! 🥰

[@kristineteall368]

I’ve watched dozens of reactions and you are the first one to comment this! I was beginning to think I was the only one who noticed! 😂

[@kennethmichael5404]

Ren wrote all of the music for this including the orchestral parts. He said he practiced quite a bit to get the piano intro right. He also said that this isn't precisely a one take, it has a single cut in it, but it had to due to some logistics and time constraints (and you actually did identify where they hid the cut) He explained it all in his Twitch live stream after the video dropped. He's really proud of this one, and should be. It's another great example of Ren's pure musical ARTISTRY. The greatest sculptures in history were created slowly, persistently, over a long period of time, one small chip at a time. Chip, chip, chipping away. Ren's illness is the marble, his musical artistry is the chisel...and look at the masterpieces he's now created. A modern day musical Michaelangelo forged through fire....and the world is better for it.

[@kazpwright]

Great analogy. Very poetic.

[@SuperBumps]

I think we all feel invested in Ren's success. But you Justin definitely exposed Ren to many people. We all thank you for that.

[@judyorr-realtor]

Actually, I found Justin (and subscribed) because of Ren.

[@EasyEcoLifeWithKaren]

Same for me. Justin is a keeper too!

[@jrmarcus]

Your "F***in’ Hell, This Is Mind-Blowing" video was my introduction to Ren.

[@anamakesthings]

I'm here, 6 months from when this comment was made, to say - same. I listend to his music, for the first time, 1 hour ago, via "F***in’ Hell, This Is Mind-Blowing". I am not well. It's 2:52 pm, I have a TON of sh*t to do for work, but I feel someone just performed an autopsy on my soul. I don't know what to do with myself. How am I supposed to come down from this and get back to work?! 😶‍🌫

[@jrmarcus]

@@anamakesthings I don't know how much you've gotten into, but if you haven't watched "The Tale of Jenny & Screech," maybe hold off until the weekend. It hits pretty hard.

[@jasonmcsweeney1294]

@@jrmarcus I BELEIVE IN MUSIC AGAIN.

[@NovaHalo]

I had the chance to spend a few days with Ren in 2017 and as ‘cheesy’ as it sounds I just knew he would be a star 😂 go Ren. This is incredible!!

[@nadiariggs5110]

What a cool experience to have had!❤

[@susanangela11]

initially we called him Bardcore but he seems to be becoming Hip Hopera! Both just amazing words x love him x

[@TeresaFlowery]

Next album is going to be back to bardcore.

[@julieyates405]

Ren is now No 54 on the top 100 across all genres in the US! Your reactions to him brought him to a wider audience, you're in on this success too ❤x

[@zed4225]

He deserves No1 on all the charts worldwide.

[@endlessrage4062]

YEEEEEEEEEEES REN!!!! LETS FREAKIN GOOOOOOOOOOO, BABY!! Not since Prince have I been so impressed, engrossed and consumed by someone’s music. He touched a part of my soul I didn’t even know existed, helping me though over two years of being off work, depression, extreme anxiety and self doubt. I sight his music, message and vibe as being the catalyst for my reemergence into work, society and the light….. many many blessings and all my love to you, brother. I’ll never forget it. 💜💜🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻

[@sarabridges845]

Love this comment! YES REN LETS GOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!!!

[@Shybairnsgetnowt1]

Don’t underestimate yourself, it takes a fighter to come through what you have experienced.

[@endlessrage4062]

@@Shybairnsgetnowt1 many thanks for your kind words. Much appreciated.

[@kazpwright]

❤

[@petek7035]

Apart from myself and one other you are the only other commenter I have seen mention Prince and I believe it is a very valid comparison👍💜💜

[@hannahmitchell87]

So chuffed for Ren! That's a true indie artist! He deserves all the recognition & accolades he gets 🖤

[@Thomas.Saunders]

I love the support you've given to our man Ren all year. As a non-musician, hearing the insights of people in the industry is helpful for my understanding. And it's amazing to see an artist from one generation appreciating and supporting one from the next. Be will, sir.

[@Corvid76]

Ren also did a build up to Money Game Part 3 by playing a literal money game where there were riddles to solve on the Internet that forced thousands of people to work together to solve and the winner was day to solve the final bit of that day's puzzle won 1,000 pounds. But people started donating the money. The final puzzle was to find a much larger cash prize buried somewhere in the world and the winner has the option to keep the money or to burn it and open a second suitcase instead. That final video is on Ren's channel and the very end of it is worth a watch.

[@warmfuzzyfeeling]

It was an amazing experience. I almost wish the Money Game riddles were AFTER his number 1 so more eyes were on it and more people taking part. The impact it had on me was incredible. Imagine that effect on hundreds of thousands of people...

[@nodiggity9472]

Kinda reminds me of the KLF / K Foundation burning £1m as an artistic statement.

[@warmfuzzyfeeling]

​@@nodiggity9472 yeah he talked about that afterwards, that's one of the reasons why he did it on Jura - the KLF did it there. (The other reason was that George Orwell wrote 1984 there).

[@andyfeeney8554]

@@warmfuzzyfeeling just replying to you gives a warmfuzzyfeeling.. nice 1984 reference.

[@JohnLloyd001]

What’s title of the video?

[@intothedepthscoco]

In the interview with Sam about how they shot this, the classical pianist that took over for Ren at the piano has an ear piece linked to Ren's microphone, so he knew the clues from his vocals. The cameraman was wearing a harness with this crazy rig attached that allowed for someone else to use a remote control to spin it for those 360 rotations. It was done in 2 one takes. If that makes sense. The cut is when it goes black when panning behind Ren in the chair. Sam did an amazing job directing all the crazy moving parts inside this huge warehouse. Congrats Ren🎉

[@Shybairnsgetnowt1]

I have to admit that I’ve never heard of Ren, but it was great to see a young lad grafting and making a success for himself. Best thing I’ve seen in a while.

[@catsandcrafts171]

Try 'Hi Ren' for another epic storytelling video, also 'Tale of Jenny and Screech' along with 'Violet's Tale' - they are all fantastic, uncomfortable in places, but theatrical and musically superb. You get to see Ren play guitar, rather than piano, and he's a fantastic musician. :) x

[@debthecpn]

@@catsandcrafts171they are all masterpieces but that’s the start of the journey, so much to discover about this Uber talented, original artist. ❤.

[@PeteFindsObscureStuff]

Welcome to the rabbit hole known as Ren!!

[@MissMeKate]

Justin did a great interview with him, well worth watching!

[@DmON_WINGS]

In all honesty im a metal head and Ren opened my musical eyes and ears. He's a once in a lifetime talent, a modern bard who doesn't cut corners or hide the reality of life. You will no matter your age enjoy, laugh, cry and think alot from listening and becoming a part of the Ren-aissance. Peace ❤

[@bethscott4330]

I love how excited REN is to show you his work and you really listened and watched carefully. It’s like you’re a father type figure to him. Someone he looks up to and your praise and support is so authentic. I think that’s why so many people enjoy YOU!

[@clairepickin5928]

It's thanks to you Justin that I became a Renagade. I've been down the Ren Rabbit Hole since you reacted to Hi Ren. The fans did so much to help spread the love for Ren and his music and also his message! The #reneffect is real!!

[@MashaT22]

Ren Rolled our beloved Rick Roll - and I say that with love! As someone who has been disabled with two neurological conditions since a 2003 accident, as well as being ill with cancer and some other stuff since 2018, and homebound since the middle of 2019, I am SOOOOOO proud of Ren. I’ve experienced so much of what he’s endured and can’t imagine being able to pull off such a feat in the midst of his treatment. I’m glad he went to a cabin with his friends to hear the news and then took a little time off from treatment after getting the news to celebrate!! I also commend Rick Astley for being incredibly gracious. He has worked really hard to come back with a new album, and yet I believe he also appreciates the feat Ren pulled off as an indie artist who has not been well, had no label backing, was not actively touring, and was basically only doing self-promotion online. I saw the video Rick released a few days ago, and I expected no less than his congratulations because he’s always been know to be a good person. I’m hoping both will collaborate on a track to celebrate - that would be super cool! I know Ren has said he would totally LOVE to do that in one of his live streams. We all played a part in this success story. I’m sure Ren is getting calls from labels now, and that he’s gladly refusing. I bet Sony is very sorry they dropped him a bunch of years ago. I’m so sorry for all Ren has endured, but it has made him who he has become - just a really, really beautiful moment for this guy!

[@michaelbradley7529]

I imagine that Ren is over the moon that you liked this newest release. I have to say I really prefer this long form reaction (where the entire video is shown). I realize it's much easier to do with a Ren video than other artists who are eager to copyright strike their videos.

[@kazpwright]

Me too - although I've lost count of the amount of times I've seen MG3, I like seeing the reaction of the Reactors.

[@edgerow]

Hi Justin, I found Ren through your channel and I've never said thanks, so thanks for that and thanks for a great channel 👍

[@Carte-Blanche-NZ]

Ren is bloody awesome. When I heard the news my heart light glowed for him. He really does deserve it. He is an artist beyond belief. Very special.

[@kathrynhegedus]

No one captivates me like Ren. He's a completely different level "artist" in every sense of the world. The fact that he tends to operate in continuous motion only intensifies the message. I'm thrilled that he has reached #1. Just goes to show that true talent needs no other promoter. I will always thank you Justin for shining a light on him. 🎉

[@JulieAiken]

Ren IS amazing, and most amazing of all may just be how much many music superstars admire him. I get the sense you'd all take him under your wings if you sensed he needed it. Somehow he has a magic that transcends his age and all of his hardships. Thanks for bringing so many people to Ren; your influence on his trajectory can not be denied. You rock!

[@ralfklonowski3740]

The best discovery of this year by far! So touching. I'd like to use this opportunity to thank you for the interview you did with him. Basically, you gave him space to tell his story in his own words, just asking a good question now and then to keep him going. Never anywhere else have I got so close to his personal journey, and your style as an interwiewer was anecessary part of it. Again, thank you.

[@YoreHistory]

Ren is a hardworking HUSTLER...he understands marketing more than most people who work in marketing for a living. Making associations with reaction channels was the biggest ace up Ren's sleeve. CONGRATS REN!!!!

[@johnschmitt7957]

It's a bit like Jerry Garcia and the Grateful Dead move of subverting the system by allowing people to tape the shows, archiving soundboards early on and building a huge following selling out stadiums for decades with thousands following them around the world based almost entirely on their live performances operating mostly outside the system. Ren did it with yt by subverting the copyright bullsh!t and providing reactors with art worth reacting to. Of course you have to have the goods to pull it off and very few do at this level but I think Ren has more up his sleeve. He wants to actually affect major change in the world.

[@thanossnap4170]

Ren in marketing reminds me of Ryan Reynolds. Commercials? Nah. Talk shows? pfff. The internet? Yes!

[@RC-ev1yb]

Ren uses silence in an incredible way. The atmospheric effect of the ambient noise of the space allowing the reverb to create a strange tension - masterful production. So well conceived, written, performed, recorded and mastered. Bow down to a bona fide genius. Big shit with a big message that isn't convoluted or indulgent. Makes me want to write.

[@justinatest9456]

Very important to highlight that not only is this performed in one take (with one edit), but that it's a full live performance, including the piano and strings. Unmatched ambition and creativity.

[@shiftybat7318]

Over the years I have played hundreds of artists' catalogues in my lady's car and the ones she took to the fastest and most adhesively have been the Darkness (that was the first one), Muse, the Veils, White Lies, Editors, Dethklok, the Twilight Sad, Måneskin, and most lately Ren. She preordered a copy of Sick Boi and got all the back catalogue cds same day. I heard about him via KZbin suggestion when Watsky's Placement album came out but I think the first thing I played her was Hi Ren, but the ones that got her Beastie blood flowing were What You Want and the Losing It remix. All around brilliant stuff and we are very proud of his progress.

[@sharis9095]

For me Ren is just Art... performance, music, presence... he's the whole package. Ren didn't build a fan base... he built a community and when the possibility of a #1 presented itself we were all invested. I now own a digital download, CD and Vinal. I don't own a CD player or record album but I'm still so excited for them to arrive. From a seasonal point of view... put your hand in the cookie jar and take more than you need... reminds me of kids on Halloween when they go to a house that leaves the candy out and the parents dump the whole thing into their kids bag... what did you just teach your kids?

[@Starlight0161]

You also contributed to the explosion of Rens success, you are respected and people really took notice after the interview

[@student22044]

Indeed, I was one of those people! ❤

[@GarnetJ]

It was great that they captured his live reaction to the #1 UK chart news on video!! You can see how much it means to him. And he was surrounded by his inner circle of friends who have worked with him as an independent artist. I’m so glad they flew out to Canada to be with him. Thank you for your support of Ren! His talent and creative vision really shine in MG3. It could be adapted into a stage production! You are right, there was one cut - behind the wheelchair. They had to reposition the mic from his lapel to inside his tie to protect it from the water. And he only had the one suit 😹 I agree - he would make a dashing James Bond 😼

[@Codex7777]

The ending presents the chorus from the first two parts but visually. For example the last line of MG3 is the line before the chorus in MG1 and the first line of the chorus is "Rain rain rain rain'. Every element of the chorus is presented but visually. It's genius! :)

[@imslightly1591]

I love also how his songs are related in sound style, but not copies. Like he has his own musical aesthetic, which I really like. Sometimes that becomes people just repeating things, which this is not.

[@susiem1976]

Just went and took a listen and watched the MGP3 video. HOLY SHIT The kid is amazeballs! true artistry like his doesnt come along very often and usually gets eaten up and spit out by the "industry". I sincerely hope he continues making incredible art. We NEED this level of awesomeness! Its this kind of art that makes life worth living, even when everything else is shit. Long live Ren!

[@NilZed1]

Were you knew to Ren?

[@ChrisLawton66]

I can never thank you enough for bringing Ren to my attention back in January.

[@andrewade25]

Caught The Darkness on their recent US Tour here in Las Vegas this month. They are still a joy to witness in action. Everyone was on their game and sounded fantastic. Loved it!

[@mrpratster]

Yes, REN, as the next James Bond.😃. The dude is ripped!!!! shreaded. Definitely has the body. Ren is an amazing artist and has brought a breath of fresh air to the music. Deep and thoughtful. I love Ren!

[@MalcolmMXTaylor]

so glad you checked this out and recognised his number 1 album!!! youve played your part to help bring Ren to your community as well this has been a real success of social media and as ren said 'a rising tide raises all ships'!!! WELL DONE REN AND THANKS JUSTIN!!!

[@mrsdiana324]

His fans were not surprised his fan groups were going crazy gifting each other downloads when fans couldn't afford it totally amazing week

[@andrewwest8334]

Eternally grateful to you, Justin for introducing me, among many others, to Ren all those months ago. It really is his year. Such an important artist and talented mofo!

[@nrsvlda70]

Thank-you Justin.. for supporting REN as you have. You knew he was going to be the star he’s become(ing)!! Great reaction to yet another piece of REN-ART!!!

[@craigevans8912]

I found Ren through this very channel… and I’ve been obsessed with his pure Genius ever since 🙌 Thank Mr Hawkins 😀👍🏼

[@williaminkarnate3173]

"The way we live is parasitic" That line sums it all up, I have often said by definition humans are a parasite. Love Ren and I'm so happy he hit number one, though I'm happier about all the lives he's touching across the globe!

[@TheNordicharps]

Good one, Justin. You played a big part in helping Ren enter the public consciousness. I found him through you and have been obsessed ever since. I predict a Nobel prize for this guy down the road. Thank you, JH.

[@rosieedwards8857]

This is such a brilliant reaction! You getting emotional makes us all emotional all over again . He's truly amazing isn't he ! And YES we are all thinking the bond thing especially when he's in the mirror at the beginning ❤

[@maddfishy1975]

Nobody seems to have picked up on the lyrics from money game 1 and 2 where he says ‘its easier to blame, but point the mirror at ourselves’ when Ren removes the money bag from his head while looking in the mirror. I think it’s very symbolic.

[@SR1Records]

I saw the video of Ren watching the chart results live. Such raw emotion. He went from being incredibly happy, and laughing to breaking down in tears which makes so much sense! Such raw emotion! So happy for everyone in the team that they got the number 1! That can never be taken away from them!

[@rebeccaburnell9319]

The piano accompaniment Ren wrote is more of a piece you'd hear in a soundtrack than having any resemblance to most pop/rock/rap tracks - it's in constant evolution (& no chorus/hook, of course), always changing to new variations of its main theme, and exists to give the storytelling momentum and pacing. 👍 (imo, anyway) Perfectly fits Ren's propensity for genre-bending.

[@sbalsamo410]

I feel kind of weird that I’m so proud of him and happy for all of us for finding him. We created magic.

[@botchick]

Ten solid minutes and not a single moment that falls short of the mark and momentarily takes you out of his construction. Nailing it in a 1-3 shot video. Messaging rich with a full understanding of societal ills. It’s just completely astonishing.

[@Qmocean]

You and all the other reactors played a more-than-small part in this success for him. The vast majority of his 1M+ followers found him because of reactors jumping on Hi Ren. Luckily for all of us, he understood this from jump and gave you all permission to react to them without any restrictions or worries of getting copyright blocks. You guys gave him free publicity which was as effective at getting him out there as the money backed artists. From the moment he announced the album was coming, yall have pushed it hard with each reaction you did. And since a lot of you reactors are artists as well, your recommendations of music to listen to carries way more weight than a radio jock reading a script paid for by a record company. My hope is that not only will this result in more and more indy artists getting to shine, but that record labels will finally see the positives that reactors bring in terms of gaining artists new fans. I've got a list of artists longer than my arms, that I only found because of reactors. As much as I would love to see The Darkness become huge again, I hope it doesn't take you out of reacting and interviewing artists on here.

[@student22044]

Nicely said 👍🏻

[@Snarky_Tart]

I'm so glad you've done this particular video, and focused on the unique genius that is Ren. I'm f***ing proud of him too, and we've been celebrating his brilliant achievement for days with no end in sight. Yours was the first youtube interview of Ren five months ago, and now here we are. Thank you, Justin.

[@chetubetchaIII]

"Performance" -- *that's* the word I was looking for. Ren's music and videos reminds me very much of theater. It's so refreshing.

[@AmityAmy]

I nearly cried when it was announced too, Ren absolutely deserves this sucess

[@joexkid9059]

Congrats to this legend, such an icon at such a young age 👌🏻

[@exert2020]

He looks you but he's not really 😂

[@theresilientspud]

Yeah hes 33 but looks 23 😁

[@jasonkeene9834]

I mean, 33 is still pretty young.

[@kazpwright]

@@exert2020 He's young compared to me!!

[@exert2020]

@@kazpwright same 😂

[@KevinSmithBrainstorm]

I was so high on Friday when this was announced. I’ve been following Ren since Jenny/Screech went viral with him being a (formerly) local Welsh boy. Only 2 times I bought music this year was within 2 weeks of eachother. PTL 6 Vinyls, 5 CD’s (and a tshirt!), and then Ren 4 Vinyls, cassette and CD. Worth every last fucking penny. Love it when artists put real effort into their physical copy music, and both you and Ren knocked it out of the park!

[@KevinSmithBrainstorm]

Had to deliver to my Dad in the U.K. He said he’s got enough vinyl to refloor his kitchen now!

[@Plague073]

Your interview is what put me on to Ren so thank you for that sir!

[@davejohnson2051]

Ren is absolutly outstanding, all of his songs are stories, all of them are genuine

[@KittyInTheGarden]

I'm so happy you reviewed this song, I was hoping you would. It's fantastic, isn't it!?! Your reaction to Hi Ren was a part of his meteoric rise to fame, so it seems fitting that you would also promote this one that he's so proud of. Glad your tour went well.

[@smashed.potatoes89]

Thankyou Justin for your reaction to 'Hi Ren' back in March, it was my introduction to the Rabbit Hole, and haven't looked back ❤

[@Nick.Webster]

I love Ren. He seems to be such a down-to-earth guy and a real talent. Thank you, Justin, for introducing him and his music to me.

[@King_Flippy_Nips]

10:40 I think the freedom from his illness has fulfilled him and he doesnt feel the need to pursue money and fame like others, he is just happy to be healthy and able to make music.

[@marieoflaherty1686]

You are so right Justin, this is a different level of artistry. Ren is so amazing

[@Dandiesonthinice]

At no point is there joy in this life. No creativity, compassion or humanity. Just a robotic life of possessions. That’s quite telling.

[@CherylAwh]

I knew the first time I saw Hi Ren that I was in the presence of greatness. MG3 is, without a doubt, a freaking masterpiece and I think he hasn't even begun to show us what he can do. I enjoyed your commentary and perspective. Thanks for the reaction.

[@dbexpert175]

Appreciate you and your reactions. I found you via Ren. Ren has equally impressed me to the point I question the infatuation. As an avid listener most of life Ren hit differently, it hits like Plant reacting to Page, it’s rare, special and unique. He has blended classics with modern tech and brought “visual music”. MTV has nothing on this kid, he has redefined a music video.

[@barbarahatcher5942]

yayyy! Thank you for supporting him! You did such a great interview with him early in the game.

[@buca505]

Justin, your interview with Ren actually cleared lots of things about him that was not clear, and it made it clear to me that he is genuine artist and authentic, not some product or phony person. So it is your interview that make me became REN’s fan I might say, and your honest approach to talk and genuine person as you are made that one of best interviews I watched. Justin you are part of his success, even you might not think so.

[@PlymouthLad76]

Justin, BP and Knox have had faith in Ren from the get go and really gone out of thier way to inspire others and promote Rens beautiful talent to the World. ❤ thank you Justin x

[@tracycrook2574]

It has been amazing to watch Rens journey, and Im absolutely so very chuffed for him getting to number one. Thank you Justin for recognising his talent and supporting him ❤❤

[@banzy3]

Came across Ren from Justin's 'Hi Ren' reaction, and have been down the rabbit hole ever since!

[@martinstitchener2430]

Ren is a total genius, and exactly what music needed in 2023. He seems so down-to-earth and genuine too. I love how he is not defined by a particular style or genre but can merge any of them and create something fresh and new, he reminds me of David Bowie in this sense, not following a set pattern, not thinking inside of the box, but ignoring the box is even there and doing what feels right creatively. The fact that the videos are art too just shows how visionary he truly is. I realised after seeing your Hello Ren video earlier in the year that I had seen Ren busking in Brighton, I remember thinking at the time, that he is good, but that was a huge underestimate on my part. Good luck to you Ren you are amazing and deserve great success and I am excited to see what you do next.

[@ricksurratt9034]

Yes he reminds me of David Bowie also👍🏽🐷✌🏼

[@justblairthompson]

I'm not so sure that he reminds me of Bowie as such, but I had entertained the belief that if Bowie had been alive he would have been pushing to colab with Ren.

[@MrFaderdes]

Ren has a kinda modern pop opera thing going on. Rap poetry story telling and classical complexity in the arrangements. Really staggeringly good and getting better as he grows. Such a good team of close friends and collaborators he has with him too

[@JAMESGUERRIERO-yw4ex]

Brilliant , really enjoyed your thoughts , yes, you nailed it , the money bag off the head , he saw himself , thus the story of Jimmy ensues, The fact he basically rapped over classical music just blows me away

[@stevehartley7504]

He sits on the table waiting! Undoes the tie and the earth is turning and it's stops and then he picks the phone up! Metaphor for his world stopping as the news about his father hits! Genius!!!!!

[@barnaclefelching4079]

Ren deserves it all, what an amazing human they are, heart of gold

[@kenspencer3448]

Your affirmation of Ren as a true artist caused me to subscribe. As a Death Metal fan and old punk, I would not normally do this. Your work with The Darkness has always been something I have admired, but seeing that you also recognise true talent and 'things that make you emotional' makes me want to follow you. This work is uniting.

[@lexiibattwitch]

Hi Justin! I grew up with you and The Darkness, and now I'm watching you react to Ren, who's community I'm _in_. It's fuckin' surreal man. The whole community is so fucking proud of him. Thank you for giving him the time when you did, 'cause without people like you many like us wouldn't have heard of him

[@laurieyekovich8218]

I don't know what prompted me to even watch the first Justin Hawkins Rides Again video that hit my feed months ago, but I'm pretty sure it was so you could introduce me to Ren. Love all of your insights and really love what Ren is putting out there. He gives me hope for the rest of us suffering from any type of mental illness. Thank you both! ❤

[@tyghe_bright]

One thing I noticed is that during the "gaps" there's still a complex soundscape, which helps keep up the tension.

[@avagreenall4671]

The creativity that ren embodies is intoxicating. He displays an individuality that has been somewhat lost within todays music scene. I applaude his refusal to conform. His musicality is a huge turn on for me. I'm a violinist, and for 40 of my 50 years I've been attached to my instrument. He's spent most of his life attached to his creativity. I envy him. I'm applauding him. Congratulations! Xxx

[@janmulcahy1458]

Ah, money is the root of all evil. Good thing I don't have any 😂 I'm so delighted for Ren I must go now and deescalate my kettle 😂😂😂❤

[@SuziQ.]

While that’s true in most instances, having just enough to help others is a blessing. One small act of kindness can lead to more kindness.

[@janmulcahy1458]

@@SuziQ. Ah yes, however, I would posit that kindness is not always monetary and those with most money are usually least kind. As long as I have food, clothes and a roof, everything else is a bonus.

[@SuziQ.]

@@janmulcahy1458 , I agree. Kindness is not always (or often) monetary.

[@cherylwitter5038]

Thank you for introducing Ren to me ever since Hi Ren i have been hooked

[@denalinde]

I really loved your interview with Ren & it’s amazing how far he’s come since then. You really listened to him & I think you gave him some valuable food for thought during your conversation. A few years back he got the idea to do a hip-hop style album & he asked for advice from someone well known in the industry. That person told Ren it was a terrible idea & that it would be a flop. I’m so glad Ren marches to his own beat or Sick Boi would never have seen the light of day. The sheer number of people who’ve connected with Ren through his music, interviews & videos this last year is astonishing. It’s about time his artistry & ideas for world/life improvement are being recognized! 💜🎶

[@DJSupaflyguy]

It’s great to see artist as great as yourself finally seeing what we’ve seen for years 👌👌👌👌

[@deanc486]

Thanks Justin you introduced me to Ren, with Hi Ren, and now after a journey of listing to most of his outstanding work I can celebrate this fantastic achievement. Thanks again you and thank you Ren too.

[@lynnemt]

Thank you, Justin, for introducing me to Ren back when you first interviewed him. I am a fan of you both.

[@philbirkitt8505]

Its an amazing song, not for radio as most of his music isn't. But the narratives in most if his songs are incredible, such a story teller. He could almost be at home on the Globe with Shakespeare which is mad! Deserves all the praise/love he gets. Guys class 👍

[@angel482963299]

Wow, that made me emotional seeing Rens reaction to hitting number 1! Since being introduced to Rens music at the start of the year, i literally havent listened to any other atist. AT ALL. He is all thats needed. So proud

[@stef-xx]

Thankyou justin for your reaction to hi ren. You got me into ren because of your video. Im so chuffed he got numero uno. 😊

[@mirapiccolo6601]

This young beautiful incredible talented arist enchants me...thanks Justin..

[@cradlegrl]

We are all so proud if him. He is an amazing human being with ridiculous talent!!

[@Ian_Martin1461]

I well up every time I see him celebrating the news. It’s such a heartwarming sight to see. I think Ren has touched so many people with his music and his openness. I must show you big respect for being the first person to interview him at the start of this sickboi journey. Next on the cards must be a collaboration between you both. Xmas number one 😂

[@Lladra]

What a lovely reaction. Seeing this work of art viewed through your artistic lens, broadened my appreciation for this wonderful piece.