CREATIVE GENIUS!! | Rapper Reacts to Ren - Hi Ren (Full Analysis)

[@RenMakesMusic]

Brother, got sent this by a friend, really appreciate the in depth reaction to my video and the approach of breaking down rhyme schemes, really meant a lot watching this! Also checked out some of your music bro ur dope! Got a sub from me! Big love man

[@cas9065]

Tonight's the night! Very excited for Sick Boi and hope all is going well in Canada.

[@KnoxHill]

I’ve always said my reactions can only go so far as what the artist gives me - and you gave above and beyond on this track man well done. Good luck on your health journey and thanks for the support 🙏 Look forward to checking out more of your music. Blessings brother

[@AlexMorris1]

Watching Ren’s channel, he’s got a lot going on in his life right now and he is commenting and thanking everybody who reacts. What a wonderful dude.

[@kdmwalks]

@@AlexMorris1 absolutely on point.

[@Nodeal757]

You fully deserve it Ren 👏 honestly so happy to see people talking about your incredible musical gift more and more 🎶 you can't be compared to anyone, you're one of a kind, the way you combine rap, singing, the guitar,the really deep meaningful lyrics, and the acting you portray, all without a huge set, a ton of editors etc... I've never seen anyone else do this- you will be remembered, you are making waves, just very happy for you 🔥🔥🔥🔥

[@MegsD79]

Had to come back and watch the birth of my favorite online bromance, been watching since the beginning but it is cool to go back and see it again! The beginning of an Era! I bet Knox had no idea how this first reaction to Ren would gain him a friend (as well as the entire team Ren has including Sam to make amazing music vids for both), help propel him to 1 mil subs, and fingers crossed we might see a collab with between Knox and Ren this year! ❤❤

[@PoliticallyPink]

I came back and watched, too, with the same feelings you expressed. And --- as of November 2024, the KH-Ren collab is done!

[@ozkasim]

Same!! I keep finding myself coming back to this video!! How amazing things turned out to be!

[@eunomiac]

One thing I've noticed about his characterization after watching this song an honestly unhealthy number of times... is that when he's portraying "normal Ren" he looks at his fingers while playing the guitar, while "evil Ren" plays carelessly and confidently. It's such a subtle thing, doubling down on the uncertain anxiety that characterizes the former. It's such a brilliant performance.

[@paulbolton4929]

There are so many layers to this performance. So many nuisances in every second.

[@TheChosenOne1_]

@@paulbolton4929i think you mean nuances lmao

[@Qmocean]

There isn't a detail of any of his videos that isn't intentional by him n Samuel.

[@FlightClubProductions]

I noticed that, as well. Superb detail. Also, I've seen several voice coaches catch that he isn't hitting the same note on the Oh ooo ooo part but modulating back and forth, which I didn't notice at first, but I haven't seen anyone realize after recognizing that modulation that it also represents the two sides, and resolves when it comes back at the end.

[@eunomiac]

@@FlightClubProductions That's really interesting! I noticed _something_ "different" about that part; something that wasn't quite the same as someone just raising those falsetto notes a semitone on the second pass. I'll have to look into this modulating thing, thanks again :)

[@MagnaRyuuDesigns]

This damn song gets me every time, especially when the 'battle' between his two sides commences and he comes out on top at the end. Also that line 'i am the voice that you hear when you loosen the noose on the rope' is heavy

[@rebeccawiltshire2203]

It’s even crazier when you learn that he only had half an hour to use that basement room and sang and done this recording of the video live with only 4 takes! He’s a true artist! ❤

[@trellin]

I'm really struggling to believe you. Not because I think your spewing shit, but because it shouldn't be humanly possible

[@domlosurdo3432]

I'm addicted to watching reactions to this song because of how everyone connects with it and interperets the two voices in different ways. You are the first person who said, "theres two voices, but i dont know what they represent yet". Very impressive to not leap to conclusions on complicated topics. also, you are the first person who ive seen truly appreciate the religious tone he took at the end (not necessarily in a religious way but at least understanding the references properly.)

[@mattyz444]

He actually brings this up on stream regarding the religious side of things. He says while he isn’t religious himself, he loves the stories that humans came up with to explain the divine and that the angels, demons and gods he talks about represent the good, evil and the power in all of us. I’m with you in that I’m addicted to reactions on this song just to see how it resonates with people and how they interpret it.

[@GrimUpNorth_yt]

Me too lol

[@VaughanRoderick]

@@mattyz444 This speaks to me. I'm a nihilist but I love mythos of all forms.

[@KarriSimone]

Omg I thought I was odd because this is the 8 th or 9th reaction I've watched of this song. I really don't do that with other songs 😐 I FKING LOVE THEM TOO

[@murf493]

Same dude I've been binging all the reactions 😂

[@Sassyglbeauty]

I think this is truly a masterpiece. It’s the Sistine Chapel, the Mona Lisa, Bohemian Rhapsody…. It’s his Magnum Opus. I never tire of seeing people experience this for the first time.

[@mandyshaila1]

Agree completely. This operatic/poetic/performance/originality/gritty truth telling/twisting the expectations of different types of music, momemt in history, will be remembered forever. He has created the uncreatable in my opinion. Something completely new, brand new art. Almost as if he has created a colour that humans have never seen before. And we are all in awe of its beauty. Xx

[@catherinetodd5163]

@@mandyshaila1I heard Ren’s voice and cadence, rapping the first part of your comment. Nice! Hehe😀

[@ArnoSelhorst]

Yes, I am guilty of binge watching React Videos to REN's "Hi Ren". This one here is by far one of the most versed and detailed reacts out there so far. You combine this immense range of artistic styles Ren brings to the table with your very personal and minute obsession for detail when analyzing the poetry within the music. Very well done. Truly inspirational bits in your unique perspective on the song.

[@curtisdye7102]

Fucking late night and further down the Ren rabbit hole. Comforting knowing there are thousands with me on the trip.

[@ArnoSelhorst]

@@curtisdye7102 by now "thousands" may be an understatement. 😉 People from all walks of life seem to get behind that song and artist. I just hope success won't harm his personal and professional development.

[@MrAaronChatfield]

yep, me too!

[@mdwarsh]

Me, too. I love this song, as well as eveything else I've found by Ren. I've shared this video link with friends I thought would appreciate the power, depth, beauty and talent expressed in this video, and have also watched many of the reaction videos. Most are interesting, but this one really goes into depth, and it's the first I've watched from the perspective of a rap artist. Love it!

[@Ati-MarcusS]

Moin Nothing wrong with that go on with that :) me too

[@mrsdiana324]

So cool watching your discovery of REN knowing a year later so much has happened and you are good friends

[@northshoreproductions3787]

Love going back and seeing the first time Knox meets Ren! ❤👊

[@BallisticAero]

Its the first of many reactions I and many of us watched, I had seen the original upload a day before I saw KH dissect the work, and he along with many reactors really helped put Ren on the radar. Years later and we're still feeling the #Renergy

[@willbhav]

Me too, each time I wonder "Why?" - Don't know, seems it is another retake, come back, try to reboot :)

[@DrinkItNeat]

After hearing this song for the first time a couple days ago I looked Ren up and it's sad yet inspiring at the same time...he was signed to Sony and then he got diagnosed with Lyme's Disease and was dropped by the label and was bed ridden for 23 hrs a day....but started making music again from his bed. So when he stands up in the video, knowing his condition makes that moment so much more powerful!!

[@traviescratchcards5875]

Wow i didnt know this. Im new to rens music and this just hit deep. Thanks for the insight 💯

[@kevinwilson455]

I found Ren a month ago and went on a YT journey.... when I found out about his illness it made that moment in the song much more powerful (him standing up). I'm with you. Music is a powerful tool and it always means more when you know the artist in some way.

[@thomashayes3783]

@1:10 you can see L D spray painted on the back of the wheelchair. Didn't notice until after I read your comment.

[@davethomas7982]

WOW! Didn't know this at all!!!

[@lizgander9172]

I bet Sony is kicking themselves just about now. 😂

[@-omicron-]

You have to check out the trilogy he did next, it's titled "Ren - The Tale of Jenny & Screech (Full)" that combines all 3 songs; it's story telling on another level.

[@jennifermathers7565]

100%

[@lesliejones5526]

That has become my favourite ever since my friend introduced me to ren's music

[@crook8468]

Yessss

[@crook8468]

And sick boi

[@cinderheat]

Completely agree - it lacks some of the power of this as its so symbolic and autobigraphical, but the story telling in the tale of Jenny & Screech makes it incredible.

[@verified.my2cents]

For some more context on Hi Ren, here is what Ren posted regarding Hi Ren on an earlier video description (this was written before he released Hi Ren in December 2022): "Nina Simone once said that it was an artists duty for their work to fearlessly reflect their life circumstances. In 2016 I had a stem cell transplant that saved my life, this video was taken two year before that. After the transplant I decided to force my past into a little box and hide it from myself. I wouldn't ever watch this video back. There has always been a part of me that's terrified that I'll end up back here and loose myself again. That part of me always gets loudest when I'm on my own with my thoughts. When I got better and my music started becoming successful after years of never thinking it would be possible I almost treated it as a reincarnation. I'd barley talk about where I'd come from with friends, but despite my best efforts my past usually found a way to leak into my music. Here I was convinced I was going to die. I was severely underweight, I had severe bone pain every day, I could barley eat food, I suffered extreme fatigue to the point even standing in a shower was excruciating. I ended up in a state of stress induced psychosis, my minds only rational explanation for the level of suffering I was enduring was that it was some kind of demonic intervention or that i was part of some twisted experiment or study. This had been my life for years. I'd bounced from doctor to doctor full of hope only to have my heart repeatedly stamped on when my condition only worsened. Cut to present day and PTSD from years of my body torturing itself stopped me from doing work that I think is vital. Shedding light on a very under-lit , underfunded, and barley understood area. The plight of the chronically sick. Millions of people all over the world are missing. Trapped inside themselves. Conditions like ME/CFS, ehlers danlos syndrome, POTS, MCAS, lyme disease, M.S. etc. Receive such little funding. To put the lack of funding into perspective, male pattern receives over one thousand times the funding than many of these chronic illnesses do combined. Recent studies found the quality of life of a person with chronic M.E. was significantly worse than someone with HIV or breast cancer. M.E. is currently one of the most underfunded disease at the national institute of health. I was one of the exceptionally few very lucky people to escape before I died after receiving a stem cell transplant and finding a hugely restrictive diet that stopped my autoimmunity flaring to the point where it was disabling but I still suffer a wide array of symptoms every day. To dive deeper into living up to the words of the late and great Nina Simone, who has for a long time been a great source of inspiration for me, I wanted my next piece of work to fearlessly stare my past in the face despite the trauma of doing so. 'Hi Ren' comes out on the 15th December at 7pm."

[@verified.my2cents]

@@Arhimith Hi Ren was released on 15th December 2022.

[@darlingnicki9706]

​@@ArhimithI think so. In the end monologue he says he's in his 20's. He's currently 33 according to Google. So I think this is a release of something he's had for a long time.

[@erikainharmony4465]

"Ren, step up to the plate. Let's make history." I don't think any of us at the time, including Knox or Ren, knew how true that statement would become.

[@mathatter9158]

This might be my favorite Knox reaction ever. Ren is so interesting and raw and Knox gets it. Reactions are so much better when the reactor has an open mind to every style, genre and can objectively react to it.

[@patriciacardoso7058]

💯

[@davidconnolly6690]

Absolutely. I've got sucked in to the world of Ren and Knox has the most honest and sincere, and also informative from a musical genre perspective, reaction.

[@MUFCVita]

Knox is the best. Well articulated, professional and has such a great in depth understanding that he’s able to teach stuff to people like myself. Never knew what cadence was until I watched his reaction videos.

[@bigchungus1592]

The other most impressive thing is that video and audio are live. He did that as a performance, not with pre-recorded audio. That was the performance as it was. So amazing.

[@barrycole5930]

Wish i believed that, i have watched this masterpiece many many times, i love it, but the downside of watching it so many times is you spot the edits and cuts and obvious lip syncs. E.g. watch it again and focus on nothing but the mic he has strapped to his collar/gown. It often disappears as its twisted under the gown in some takes, so there are at least 2 takes, and when this mic is twisted down it isnt possible to have the same audio quality. Love it, truly do, but clearly a few takes and in some parts at least there is dubbed audio. Unlike the trilogy of jenny and screech which from what i can tell is all live and uncut.

[@johncenashi5117]

@@barrycole5930 He has said himself that its live and onetake. I dont think he would lie about that since he can actually do onetakes and is a master of it. He always shows when its cut and recorded in different takes. And you can def have it at the same audio quality with that mic if its under the collar/gown.

[@barrycole5930]

@@johncenashi5117 i get you, and i dont doubt the audio was one take, but you cant watch this closely focusing on the mic and tell me this was all one take. It simply wasnt. Watch it, see how the mic flips from out to in to out in the blink of an eye. Seriously thats impossible if the video was one take but i totally believe the audio was one take.

[@johncenashi5117]

@@barrycole5930 At what parts? You can tell me the time and ill watch for it. Im not arguing with you just so you know, hahaha. Im just curious how you came to that conclusion.

[@barrycole5930]

@@johncenashi5117 4:32 is the first time on this vid. Its hard to see the mic flip over to being under his gown here as its smaller in the corner of the screen but easier on the original vid. Happens a few times. Don’t worry no arguing here either we can disagree thats all good 👍🏻

[@UrbanHim]

Ren is the saviour of Britain at the moment. And this is the first, no wait, the ONLY reaction video where the intelligence matches that of the subject. This reaction video is on par with Ren's masterpiece. Your descriptive commentary, your knowledge of the subject matter is simply exquisite. This reaction video in itself is a masterpiece. So for that I thank you.

[@1diagram]

Spot on. This is the only reaction that matches the art he's reacting to.

[@candice3559]

😂 Spell cheek

[@Zak_Nike]

This reaction us on par with Rens video and song? Really 😮 fm

[@UrbanHim]

@@Zak_Nike Tell me you know nothing about Ren or Knox Hill without telling me you know nothing about Ren or Knox Hill!

[@Codex7777]

I agree. It was a superb reaction, in every way! Real emotional and intellectual intelligence, married to great knowledge and musical understanding, all guiding his analysis. Add in the great wit and humour and it's on a different level. It remains possibly the reaction I've seen. Not just for this masterclass of a performance by Ren but rather, all reactions, to all material, across all KZbin reaction channels. He's just really good! Tbh I think Knox probably has most spots in my all time top 10 favourite reaction videos. Great reactor! A pretty good rapper too! :) P.S. No, Knox didn't pay me to write that! lol. :)

[@merklingassoc]

I'd never heard of Ren, until this song and it blew my 68 yr old mind into tiny little bits. I wish I'd had a 10th of the growth, self-awareness and maturity this young man has at 28. Ren is absolutely a poet, his musical genius and timing is out of this world. I tap danced in my youth, so rap music in my brain is translated into the rhythm of tap. Ren is such an incredible storyteller (sadly a talent lost in today's world), he pulls you in, you believe, you feel, you're invested, you become a part of the universe he has painted with his words and music. I dove deeply down the, Ren, rabbit hole of music and find I love it all. His talent is so completely diverse, making each different style his very own Ren is now one of my favorite YT Music playlists. Each and every time I hear "Hi Ren" it gives me chills all over again. Love your breakdown, insight and interpretation. Thank you.... ❤️❤️❤️👏👏👏👏

[@jenniferhembree9144]

Yesssss, love your comment!!!! I’m 50 & this song has completely blown my mind❤️❤️❤️

[@carafry4606]

I'm another 50 year old who is HERE. FOR. IT.

[@VengieShiva]

I think it's so wonderful that his music connects with young and old alike. I have not been anywhere close to what Ren has gone through but like a lot of people have had demons of my own and I connect with this song but I don't think you need to have gone through things yourself to connect with his music either. Ren is so super talented and I have only recently come across his music, in fact in the last week and I have been linking him to family and friends. I also echo the part where you say " Love your breakdown, insight and interpretation. Thank you.... ❤❤❤👏👏👏👏"

[@RealSundanceGarden]

This 66 year old girl (me) listens to him 2-3 times a week. He speaks to so many of us. He is a master storyteller, truth teller, poet, and connective string that unites us regardless of any notions or labels. Thank you Ren. 23:48

[@mattayc266]

I couldn't have said better big up Ren and bug up England talent

[@AudioVile]

"I'm following Ren to Mordor... let's f-in GO!" Wow that was so powerful! No wonder Ren wrote back to you. I'm only 1/4 of the way through and you are impressing the *bleep* outta me!! So I'm writing as I'm listening. I've heard this piece dozens, DOZENS of times. I have not yet heard any reactor connect with and explain this masterpiece as well as you. Many have understood and connected with the message. You are doing more than that... you not only get the message, you completely 'get' the genius... the wizardry of his performance. It took me 25 times to notice and appreciate the stuff you are picking out on your first time through. Your reaction is outstanding. More at the end... Okay, he's finished and I'm listening to your closing soliloquy. Not any old comments... a true soliloquy. Artistic. Perfect as a close to the artistry of his masterpiece. Your "reaction" was simply incredible. How in the WORLD did you gain so much wisdom at such a young age? I want to read THAT book!! Liked and subscribed. Thank you. Truly. Thank you! ..... Okay, hold on... I JUST noticed that you have an interview with Ren. Clicking on that next!! 👿😇 🙂

[@kerrischneider7693]

This comment saved me from typing the same thing. I want aware of just how much knowledge is contained in that young noggin of Knox! He's the only one that knew of "plan B"... from the reactors I've seen. I'm not easily impressed, but Knox got my vote after seeing this video.

[@AudioVile]

@@kerrischneider7693 Agreed. He's one of the best reactors I have encountered!

[@TheEverydayPoet]

Yes, like Ren, like Knox, you created a masterpiece (of a reaction) too... a masterpiece of a tribute.

[@alienangel777]

I want "I'm following Ren to Mordor" on a tshirt.

[@badwolf1587]

Ok, I did see this one way back when because even though I'm not at that spot yet this time. I remember that statement.

[@ramrod126]

"some people know me as hope" line always hits me the hardest.

[@davidmackeown9318]

About time an artist highlighted this issue as plenty of people suffer this daily. Pure masterpiece.

[@cas9065]

Check out Genesis, David.

[@murder13love]

Plenty highlight these issues. The mainstream tends to silence them and push more pop music. NF, TM, Hopsin, Token, Madchild all went on a roll with this including many other artists like Crypt, Atlus, Gawne and so many others in more than just hiphop... To highlight a massive issue within society that desperately needs funding isn't monotisable... especially when they are indipendant artists.

[@Xxmax8maxxX]

I think many have. This one however had little to no production mastering and punching things in and out. It was extremely raw and didn't care about it being perfect. The way music should be. The way it used to be

[@therealfatshady8983]

King ISO.....nuff said

[@capatheist]

@@murder13lovethere IS a difference between epitaphs towards mental health in general, (wich all those youtubers you mentioned do because it’s family friendly) And art that actually addresses a very specific type of… You know what, screw it, doesent matter… I think most if not all of the others you mentioned are cheap plastic, topical and gets sympathy but no real art. Not like this

[@edwardsell5265]

Probably the most comprehensive breakdown of a song ive seen, worthy of a sub.

[@paulriley1123]

Its incredible how a song can make us look differently at things. I'm a 60 year old rocker, who without this song would never have found your channel. Your reaction was great, inciteful, knowledgeable and intelligent. I'm to long in the tooth to become a rap fan but we can both share in the experience of being a Ren fan. I think this piece of art was made for all us humans 👍

[@nathandts3401]

Rap and rock both have their roots in blues. Most rap is awful, but there are people out there that I'm sure you'd like.

[@andymcpandy2128]

#TheRenEffect

[@laylaeyre5635]

I have seen a mass amount of reactions to hi ren, and this one is by far my favorite. The way you broke down the meaning behind the individual lyrics, the rhyme scheme, the guitar, and even the camera work was excellent. You are the first reaction ive seen that seems to really understand the mastery and poetry that ren has, and you articulated it wonderfully. Thank you for this!

[@billmonb4579]

Watching again too … this is where the friendship started

[@luckyinlondon7436]

This track now has millions of views and the subject matter means so much to many people ,if this track doesn't win a Grammy next year then it'll be an utter disgrace

[@davidd3899]

I work in addiction and run groups in a community rehap. I have played the song in groups. It's an amazing tool to talk about the voices of doubt and a strating point towards a journey into recovery. Learning to take this voice along on the ride and reacting to it differently. Very powerful

[@docdurdin]

Here we are ONE YEAR later. The impact Ren has struck remains stronger than ever. Knox, the connection you made with Ren will last a lifetime, those relationships don't come around often so we we honor and cherish them.

[@joewarrick6043]

I read a lot of comments when I watch videos and I’ve noticed that REN inner acts with the people in the comment section which is pretty cool. Something like that makes an everyday regular type persons day. Ren is quickly becoming a celebrity so I’m sure it’s pretty badass to get a message from him. I think it shows his appreciation to the fans. Very cool in my book

[@notanormi]

A year later and Renstill sends chills through every part of me and your reaction is still the best on the internet!❤❤❤

[@momzillainnova]

As a 52 year old woman, mother of three and grandmother of three who has suffered autoimmune illness for more than half my life. This. This is all reaching. Emotional. Inspirational. And it is all so very very true.

[@jamesricephoto4323]

Man, you properly slammed the critique of this tune dude! Absolutely smashed it! I've heard it a thousand times now and seen numerous reactions but yours man - you saw all of the things I did with the lights, production, and tone change - awesome dude! Immediate sub! 👊

[@_Glass-_-House_]

Well done with your work on Ren's track. Terribly sorry to be a bother with this queastion but I am just curious is Sam Tompkins still making videos with him as well? Ren has been an artist I've really connected with so just curious about how things have changed and progressed they seem like a wicked duo both in performance and just the chemistry in working together like with the videos in the tales trilogy quite brilliant.

[@chakralinfusion4671]

Yes! I've been watching reacts to this for an unreasonable amount of time and Knox is the first person Ive seen who's noticed the lights

[@savoy66]

Knox is the best break down man in the game imo. He's an amazing reactor.

[@rosie_tee]

@@_Glass-_-House_ Samuel is not Sam Tompkins. Samuel is a talented videographer who has done most of Rens videos. They're a great team. Sam Tompkins has been signed to island records, he is a little restricted now. Such a shame, I'd love to see them do more together. Blind eyed is so good x

[@_Glass-_-House_]

@@rosie_tee Thank you so much for clarifying Ren is an amazing talent as is Sam I appreciate you correcting my confusion. I recently delved into The Big Push and the myth the legend Ren Gill I hope things go well for the both of them.

[@danielhooper301087]

Just waiting for Ren to comment himself and appreciate the reaction Knox! I've seen him commenting on loads of channels! I got on to Ren a few days ago and I'm here for it big time. The trilogy he does is insane! Right up your street. Peace from the UK!

[@jwvandegronden]

Knox, I find myself revisiting both Ren’s song and a hand full of reactions to his song for the added commentaries that help me to appreciate his song even more. And yours is really standing out, your emotional intelligence combined with your mad language skills and eye for detail elevate the song experience to new heights! The song in itself is a piece of art, your reaction matches the level of intensity and professional lyricism, absolutely amazing!

[@pb-fo9rt]

facts! Such a great reaction and great comment..

[@MonkeyMaroo]

I was going to say the same thing... but you worded it so perfectly @pb-fo9rt that I'll just say ditto!

[@jwvandegronden]

@@pb-fo9rt thank you so much! Just wrote what I felt watching his reaction. I just love the art of language!

[@jwvandegronden]

@@MonkeyMaroo thank you so much! Happy to see others share this experience!

[@heatherburrell]

From someone who is dealing with auto immunity and has had psychosis, I can so deeply relate to both voices of darkness and light. To accept both sides of yourself, is to be the person who can succeed through anything thrown at them. Thankyou, your thought process is beautiful. Whether freative or not, so many of us can relate, and I love so deeply that Ren inspires so many of us. He has suffered, he still suffers. Much like many of us. This helps me make sense of life, and I truly appreciate your take on this 💕

[@dearydarling]

Reaction videos are a nice dopamine hit "Hehe yeah! Me too! That's how i feel!" but this one? I keep watching RV's bc i almost need them to cope with this. It's so powerful, it almost can't be endured alone. Ren's one of those artists that makes it feel strange to say "I'm a fan". Like saying you're a Shakespeare fan or Michelangelo stan. He's a gift and this work he's doing is going to save some lives and lighten some burdens. I wish young me had heard him but now me is really glad to see his art felt so deeply and treated with so much respect and comprehension. Loved your video. :)

[@XRPeakyBlindAR]

That was a thoughtful remark. I appreciated that Stay well

[@clearlee1266]

Perfectly put.

[@thefireman17492]

That's exactly how i feel. Some songs he writes (especially this one) are so powerful and dreadful that i need to watch reaction videos in order to not stay alone in my thoughts while listening to it / understand them better.

[@MC_kalCM]

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

[@MC_kalCM]

Welp... I should've waited to just timestamp 19:50.hA!

[@blotcho84]

Going back and appreciating your early Ren reactions, this after seeing your stage performance with him and Viktus! Proof that--SOMETIMES, good things happen to good people.

[@henrik.norberg]

Watched 50+ reactions to Hi Ren and you are the only one who really gets it, where not even psychologist understand.

[@ceekayy79]

Just thought I'd come back and watch this again. Man who knew that 7 months later you would have interviewed him, met and hung out with him, been involved in a rap battle as an ally and worked with the videographer of this video! And those are just things we know about haha. Crazy this KZbin thing!!

[@cobblepott4169]

It's cool that you keyed into the moment he stood up. Ren has lyme disease, so he's gone through a lot in overcoming the degeneration of his leg muscles. Standing on his own two feet and struggling through the eternal dance have amplified meaning in that context.

[@Hakuwoodworks]

Most of what Ren has put out lately is 1 take, live performance. Freaking impressive. He just got to Canada the other day for some special therapy, and I hope that he can find some peace.

[@stuartw969]

As a 71 year old Brit who has followed / enjoyed REN’s music for a few years; I really appreciated your superb analysis. Hope for more from you both!!

[@lucasashford7966]

Man as a schizo affected person.. this is our anthem.

[@bazm2024]

So nice watching this an knowing you guys are now friends. Now fkn colab already 😂😂😂

[@carlharwood]

Hi Knoxhill, Just wanted to thankyou for sending me on a journey over a year ago with this review of yours. Decided to revisit this review of yours again. It is still as impactful as it was the first time. Being a Welsh Man myself, I was intrigued to find out more about “Ren”, and oh boy what a journey it has let me on. All thanks to this one review. I have followed you both (and many others now). And am keen to see what the future holds for you both. It has changed not only my life but also on my outlook on life and the people around me. And what “I” can be as a “Human Being” to make my life and theirs a better for all. Yours Carl (BBC Wales)

[@barking_mad6649]

9 months later and what a journey. Number #1 album. ❤

[@goaty1964]

Here after watching the Knox Hill / Ren collab 🙂

[@rossmclay4221]

I bet this time 8 months ago you didn't realize you would find a brother in Ren! This is where it all began an im so happy for you both 💙

[@alienhexican8017]

I've watched probably 200 reactions to Hi Ren in the last couple months, and got t wondering when I first heard him. According to my KZbin library this was my first encounter with Ren. I want to thank you from the bottom of my heart for introducing me to his music. That is all.

[@emmabarnard6012]

The best reaction to this that I've seen, not that I expected anything less from you! I live near Brighton and have been lucky enough to see Ren and his old band play live several times: the last being their farewell concert in September. He is such an amazing artist, with amazing guitar skills, a talented singer and performer, as well as rapper and storyteller. As someone who has followed him for several years, I feel incredibly proud that this local lad is doing so well and showing the world his genius.

[@tonnaboy10]

Local lad, born and bred in North Wales lol

[@cas9065]

Thank you Knox. I love the way you listen, and there aren't many deconstructions of Ren's Bars and cadences yet. Oh, the voice from the East that settles on the ocean floor. I see that as the antithetical apocalypse, where the Antichrist rises from the West and as beast from the sea comes onto the land. The additional craziness of Ren is that he is a polyglott of musical styles, equally good in all of them. You are absolutely right, his music makes people feel heard, pain shared, and then there is hope.

[@becbrown212]

The sun rises in the East, so much symbolism in his lyrics

[@lolacan8767]

I’m here again after just watching you on stage with him…. Insane!!! You were all bloody incredible xx thank you for taking a picture with me, I was soo overwhelmed meeting you xxxxx

[@flisan4385]

This is by far the best breakdown of Ren I've seen. I knew you wouldn't disappoint Knox! You're great! Ren is awesome. This was like an amazing journey to watch. Thank you. What a trip.

[@freyjana]

We need people like him. Troubled souls that burn so bright but who inspire us others and make us feel alive. It is rare

[@bookerwills8649]

I'm so happy you reacted to this. Ren is seriously my favorite artist on earth right now. He is so special, I played him for my dad who I barely get to see, I spent 16 minutes of my 3 hours with him watching Jenny screech and violet. It was worth it

[@cosmicdebris5260]

Did your dad watch it with you also?

[@bookerwills8649]

@@cosmicdebris5260 yes he did. He loved it

[@cosmicdebris5260]

@@bookerwills8649 he has a knack for Reaching Across generational boundaries! Truth has a way of doing that 🌿💔

[@ashleytaylor7621]

i know this is like ages old now but just wanted to add my two cents here the line where ren says "face to face with the beast I will rise from the east" the sun rises from the east and sets in the west so yes it is also a reference to the beast in revelations, or can be but its a metaphor as when the darkness comes so too does the day, I also believe it fits so well seeing as it comes in just after ren says "but just as sure as the tides start turning. JUST AS SURE AS THE NIGHT HAS DAWN, just as sure as the rainfall soon runs dry when you stand in a eye of a storm" its just perfect poetry the man is a genius.

[@myownlane8409]

The start of something beautiful

[@jynxbmd851]

Only discovered Ren myself last week through reactions, so happy to see him blowing up from a wave of reactions to his music - Tales of Jenny and Screech is a masterpiece of storytelling, highly recommend it 🔥

[@melissawinstead8848]

Knox. 😢 Your breakdown was equally as beautiful as the song. What an eternal fight we all have. Stay strong. Peace and love always until there is no more!😊❤

[@rgCA_01123]

I agree, his breakdown was perfect ❤️

[@sinisterplank3113]

I’ve been on a Hi Ren binge for days, this song is an absolute masterpiece. Real, raw and true.

[@mandyshaila1]

I've finally found the correct way to describe Rens art!! It is as if he has created a new colour, that humans have never seen before. And we can't help but be in awe. Xx

[@rowanthomas9181]

And only a year later, here we are with Knox and Ren having made a song together!

[@Wermfare]

Watching Ren for a while its been so amazing seeing him blow up and seeing all the reactions and people discovering his genius and talent

[@jenniferlynne3314]

This is the best reaction to this song I’ve seen. You really understood the themes and meaning behind it. I feel like I get a new nugget of wisdom every time I listen. It’s unbelievably genius.

[@gamesguitarsandcars]

So nice to see this song getting picked up by more of the larger reaction channels, Ren is such an amazing artist and more people need to experience his stuff. I really hope you will check out some of his other stuff as his stuff is of a wide variety. The Jenny and Screech trilogy is a great storytelling experience, his stuff like "Genesis" or "What you want" are more rapping, you can see him sing more rock stuff with the band The Big Push or various tracks with Sam Tompkins (who is a heck of a singer too), and stuff like "Chalk Outlines (live)" which is possibly my favorite song of his. He is really... REALLY... good.

[@TheNightwalker247]

Chalk outlines has me in tears. But it's always freeing

[@hehemoglobina]

I'm in a rabbithole of people reacting to Ren's music and I can't get out of it, yet somehow I love it 😂❤

[@Suileabhain]

Anybody notice when, early in the lyrics, he says ‘things maybe falling in place’, he looks directly at the camera when he says ‘place’. An acknowledgment of his support ? Fans?

[@thedearjohnblog]

This is THE best reaction I've seen to this track so far - and I've been watching every one I can find. It was a pleasure to watch you thoughtfully break it down in real time, picking up on so much of the depth of Ren's performance at your first time of hearing it. I particularly appreciated your recognition of the percussive element to his guitar playing. I'm classically trained myself, but I've been absorbed by the way he takes that skill and adds so much more to it. How he does all that whilst delivering complex bars and putting on a show all at the same time is beyond me. Great job, thank you.

[@MarkSiosal]

Far too much stopping and starting for me....sometimes at the same parts more than once without going back a few seconds like most of these videos to get the flow again.

[@thedearjohnblog]

@@MarkSiosal That may be a fair point. I think I was so taken by the fact he was identifying so much straight out of the box, the pauses might have gone over my head.

[@fordie8music584]

@@MarkSiosal this is how all of his breakdowns are though. He stops a lot and really breaks down the bars. It's what knox does better than any other reaction channel.

[@dottedlinewent]

If I had to sum it up in one word - it’d be Grace. I think that dance between light and dark, when you start to soften - it’s because you’ve given yourself moments of grace to be light or dark, no matter which side of the pendulum you’re on in that moment. I love this video and enjoyed your reaction Knox! Thanks for reacting to it! Dude really is a genius ☝️ 💯

[@rgCA_01123]

Beautiful!

[@christilehman-starr4428]

Yes and the Grace appears at the moments when we relax, as he discovered. Although human beings are not angels , demons, or gods we are multidimensional and this aspect brings us into the supernatural. This happens naturally as we relax, accept ourselves and other for what it is, and step into sovereignty. Which is the standing up part. I believe this tenet is so powerful and needed at this time and possibly why we need this connecting experience with these reactions to this song. Whatever it is, it’s divine. And Ren’s life will be a testament apparently. 🖖🏻🖖🏻🖖🏻

[@loganyarborough7783]

I'm so glad you did this! 2 things I noticed The line "so I got older" is such a good thing to say. So many kids think it won't get better, if only they would push thru a little longer, grow a little older. I also wanted to point out this video and his trilogy Jenny's tale are all one shot videos!

[@sorio99]

I also think something you missed, since you’d never listened to Ren before this track: “She sells seashells on the seashore” is a direct reference to Money Game Pt 2, where the bridge uses that old tongue twister to go into a dissection of how capitalism is used to exploit people. The song got popular after a fairly low effort meme played the bridge under a looping animation of Luigi from Mario Galaxy, with many people coming to the videos official lyric video referencing it. Notice how right after the line, Ren’s light side ends up coming across more defensive and hurt; while it’s definitely a net positive to have more people listening to his work (hell, I discovered Ren through that meme), it must feel kinda weird to be a serious artist who makes work trying to connect with people, and then to blow up because of a video called “Luigi Explains Capitalism”. I’m glad he’s been blowing up more recently because his work on its own is just that incredible.

[@cbird02]

Came back a year after I first saw this reaction. Love that this was a crashing of two worlds. For sure a historical hip hop moment. This coming on the heels of the amazing Fentanyl collab that was so long in the making.

[@Gerrit4A]

Hey Knox. This song means a lot to me. Being a believer I picked up many references and truths in this song. So I was checking out reaction videos on "hi Ren" from various tubers to see what people pick up on. Suddenly I realize how helpful this song is to filter the many shallow tubers. They just do not have the capacity or depth to understand the song. You Knox, on the other hand, (especially if this truly was your first viewing) showed immense depth and knowledge. I was impressed and for that I give you recognition. Personally I wish I could discuss this song with Ren, since I wonder if he meant it as deep as I hear it. I cannot listen to it without a deep emotional reaction. Thank you for your reaction.

[@bungeyedsniper1391]

When he stands up and is dancing while the lights are flashing it’s representing the dance between the light and dark in his mind, the eternal dance he refers to. Very clever

[@DoomMeows]

I saw it as almost an integration, accepting the dark and the light, no longer fighting it but literally letting the dance move through while clinging to hope

[@div3345]

Ren is pretty unique and I’m glad he’s getting more of a spotlight. He sings about some pretty important things in interesting ways. Also, at 11:52 where you mention the nursery rhyme, it’s also a callback to another song of his called ‘Money Game’, and is also 100% worth checking out. It ties in quite well, and I’d rather not say more than that!

[@tanaiawilkinson4881]

Money Game pt 2, actually

[@7richrandom6]

Bro, just from an understanding the aspects of music, not necessarily from an emotional stance, I think that of all the Hi Ren reactions I've watched; yours was definitely the most genuine, the most knowledgeable, and really just fun to watch. You deserve success. I'm going to check out some of your music now. All the best to you

[@AnnaPennwolfe]

The fact that this man live records most of his videos just absolutely SLAYS me. The musicality needed to make studio sound in a live setting like this is outrageous.

[@jerihillman6311]

You are a very intelligent person to be able to analyze this so well at first listen. I'm very impressed. As am I with Hi Ren. It's simply stunning and profound!! 👌😎

[@Bivid008]

"Some people know me as hope Some people know me as the voice that you hear When u loosen the noose on the rope" still gives me chills 🥶

[@gavinferguson]

many dont notice this line but its one of the deepest in the whole song

[@donnakawana]

I heard that voice once!! Grateful for hope! Hope's voice is strong in my head now. An gratitude has come along now... This song , his story is I spark in the darkness that brings ever lasting sunshine!!! Grateful an humbled ✌🏼💗😊😘🫂😘

[@ginagstring]

me to

[@november2435]

This line hits home

[@catherinemccormick3184]

Was looking for this comment. Probably my favourite line in the song honestly

[@sircoynie]

Completely addicted to this song. It is a truely artistic masterpiece with real deep and important meaning behind. Thank you for being one of the very few reactions on the tube that actually listens to it and doesn’t just hear it!

[@tomeden5296]

He did this whole project in 2 hours and 3 takes! Guy is so special. Only followed him for a couple of years but once you connect, there’s nobody else who hits that same chord with you.

[@Hun73rdk]

From another hi ren reaction by Jens Randolff Here is some additional information on Ren's story, in case you didn't already know. I gathered it from an old newspaper interview and Ren's livestreams and posts where he discussed his condition. Ren Eryn Gill is a British musician/independent artist; born in Wales in 1990 or ‘91 (depending on which source you cite), he grew up in Brighton. 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 and subsequently dropped by Sony. Ren's illness often kept him in bed for up to 23 hours daily. Ren was initially misdiagnosed with depression, bipolar disorder, and chronic fatigue syndrome, which lead him to experience psychosis. It would take seven years before a doctor in Belgium finally correctly diagnosed Ren with autoimmunity, Lyme disease, and resulting damage to the brain, organs, joints, and PTSD. Ren eventually underwent stem cell therapy in the United States, which improved his health, but it has not been a cure. Ren is currently in Canada for more treatments, including surgeries, and will have to be there for at least six months (Summer of 2023). Ren's Canadian doctor discovered that Ren also developed a condition called Mast Cell Activation Disorder, which has affected the myelin sheath in his brain, his thyroid, adrenals, as well as his bones/joints. Ren stated: "It's a lot to wrap my head around having to be away from friends, family, and a successful career, and almost feels like a total juxtaposition to the fact that my music is blowing up right now and spreading to all corners of the world, but that's life, we take the good with the bad." Let's keep supporting Ren and not pull a "Sony" on him as he undergoes his treatment. Check out and subscribe to his channel, listen to some of his earlier work, like and comment on his performances, and let's lift Ren's spirits. If you are a believer, pray for him. Ren is an artist with something to say to this generation, and his work is needed in these troubling times. Here is the link to Ren’s GoFundMe page to raise money for his current treatment. www.gofundme.com/f/ren-get-better-from-lyme-disease-and-autoimmunity

[@TeslasTeaParty]

I really enjoyed watching your reaction to this! To hear the perspective of another musician was not just Interesting but also incredibly enlightening. Just being able to have the intelligence and vocabulary to successfully express your thoughts and emotions makes all the difference to the point where I'm now gonna spend some time listening to what you have to say through your music, as these are the type of artists im drawn to. Ren is a cool and humble guy and I'm sure he will thank you for your take on this when he sees it. Peace and love 💙

[@Reema-iu9os]

My thoughts exactly

[@rgCA_01123]

You were so right 🥹🙏

[@BiancaRose78]

I like the juxtaposition of victims and students. We can be a victim or we can be a student and learn. I'm a classically trained singer and was an opera singer for 12 years. I also suffer from psychosis from time to time. I'm epileptic, and I've had so many seizures during my lifetime that now when it happens, I experience psychosis and mania. This song feels like my life. Oh, and even though I'm epileptic, the flashing lights don't bother me. The most common cause of seizures is stress. Thank you for this fantastic review! We're not alone!

[@StLProgressive]

After stumbling across this song, I’ve watched several reaction videos, and yours is by far the best. You really broke down the poetry in the song. The first time I heard this, it hit me like a ton of bricks. I’m a cancer survivor; losing my hair in clumps on my 30th birthday. The chemo screwed with my nerves, causing disabling chronic pain. This is exactly what a chronic condition like this can do to you mentally. Been stuck in bed for days now. Knowing that others are out there helps so much. Music is so powerful.

[@zabummer]

I have binge-watched reactions to this musical experience for two weeks now, so I have had a pretty wide variety of "reactors" (rappers, soloists, opera singers, psychologists, etc, etc). I am not a qualified brainiac of any sort, just a guy living with major clinical depression, so this song hit me hard every time I listen to it. I think I teared up for the first 5 or 6 times I watched it. Your reaction is the most valuable reaction I have watched because out of all the "reactors" out there, yours was the only one that lines up with (my) real life.. Stay strong, stay healthy and perhaps more important: stay true to yourself.

[@pamelareeves3574]

And it was live and one take. He is so fucking BRILLIANT!

[@loadedorygun]

It’s a testament to how great this song is, how amazing the performance, that I’ve watched four separate reactions now and they’ve all brought different analyses to light. Your musical/lyrical breakdowns are very observant and insightful. Thanks for showing us how strong a composition this is.

[@blawruk]

You definitely saw a LOT of things in this video that many others missed, or didn't understand. You're a wicked smaht dude- love your stuff. Great reaction to this. A+

[@axelmittig9334]

Best reaction to this song by far - and I have seen all of them, I think 😬. Thx. I follow Ren‘s way for a few years now. His talent is awesome. He is not just a musician. He is a real artist. A genius. Happy that he starts getting the attention he deserves.

[@pamelareeves3574]

Ren is bringing back true poetry to music and the masses.

[@kiwihame]

Knox Hill, wow! What an amazing, intelligent, insightful, artistic, articulate analysis of Ren's incredible art. Respect to you my man, you're a true a philiosopher at heart.

[@dew.are.real.]

Ren is next level British artist every track he has done is incredible

[@Philzoid]

Welsh

[@nathandts3401]

​@@PhilzoidWales is a part of Britain...

[@Philzoid]

@@nathandts3401 It's funny because if he was English people would say English artist but because he's Welsh they say British.

[@nathandts3401]

@@Philzoid That's true, England is very xenophobic until it comes to successes, but not really grounds to correct a factually correct statement.

[@thehangingparsiple5692]

​​@@nathandts3401Yet Irish are referred to as Irish, not British, and Scottish are referred to as Scottish. It's because Wales WAS English up until as recently (as in historical recent) as 1700, when it became part of the Kingdom of Great Britain. Great Britain then became the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Ireland in 1801. Yet, the Welsh retained their language and culture despite heavy English dominance. Scotland's history followed a similar path to Ireland's, I think

[@cosmicdebris5260]

Ren greatest Hamlet of his generation Way Beyond genius! I've had the pleasure of listening to him for several years he is fantastic! Thank you for spreading the word!🌿💔

[@Tellacon]

Amazing reactions Knox, I was listening to this song since it was being leaked slowly via TikTok and it hits on such an emotional level, you hit the nail on the head here with your comments.

[@Cromicus99]

I love the way he doesn't resolve the final note, the struggle doesnt end, it continues.

[@terresehamilton533]

And the fact that he performs it live his talent is beyond words while other artist do the music then the music video

[@thetalantonx]

Oh man, I've been looking forward to this one! So glad to see you reacting to Ren, I can't wait to hear your thoughts and insights.

[@ChrisM541]

'Hi Ren' is an extremely rare thing...a true masterpiece. If this isn't entered into the Grammy's etc (very little would need 'bleeped', if at all) then the world is even more fkd up than we could ever imagine.