Musician/Producer Reacts to "Hi Ren" by Ren

[@MCeciPinto]

I loved your reaction and your overall way of reacting. You give yourself first the chance to hear the full song and connect with it, and then you break it down to provide your perspective from a technical and emotional side. It demonstrates that you really manage your ego and love music apart from the contribution you make to help us all navigate this incredible talent that is Ren. Thank you and the best of lucks with your channel!

[@StrateleStudios]

Every once in awhile, not often, someone leaves a comment that echoes back to me the very things that I really strive to accomplish with my videos (which are important to me). There are some negative/rude/insulting comments where the viewer wants me to react in ways they are accustomed to seeing on other channels. Whenever I cover a new artists for the channel, like Ren, these types of comments seem to be in a higher volume. I am grateful for viewers, like you, who are willing to share their positivity like this, Cecilia. Seconds before I saw your comment I received a comment that took up half the page slamming me for various things that I was not "doing right" (according to this person). Since I read every comment these negative words always bring into focus the question "Why am I subjecting myself to this as I certainly already have a full life with a full time job, financial security, and I'm engaged in many music projects of my own". You just answered that question for me this morning...it's for people like you. Are you up for picking the next video for next week's RENsday? If so, give me your top 2 or 3 choices! Big hugs to you...Jeff

[@MCeciPinto]

@@StrateleStudios Wow! Thank you, Jeff, so much for your reply and the beautiful words, I wasn’t expecting any response and receiving your message was a beautiful surprise! I usually don’t leave comments in KZbin but in this case, I felt the need to do so; it seems that we needed to have this conversation :)) I understand that it must be really discouraging to receive unconstructive and aggressive comments, especially when they are completely unaligned to what you do, and that makes your work even more valuable. We live in difficult times, and I think that we must all contribute to put an end to any form of aggression and to move towards love in any form. Just yesterday I watched a part of a Ren’s live performance of “The Tale of Jenny and Screech” and around minute 8 Ren talks about something that is more towards the political but that has totally to do with the overall picture of this social behaviours. He literally says: “In today’s age of the internet, we are so hyperpolarized, that the left has gone militantly left and the right got militantly right and that’s a problem because wherever you sit on the spectrum there is extreme hypersensitivity or extreme prejudice and those things don’t meet, and I think that the most revolutionary act in today’s age is living right in the middle and being empathetic to the person who offends you. (…) To progress as people, we do need to meet in the middle and work together.” Thank you once again for your beautiful reply and please do keep doing your amazing work! As for a recommendation on a Ren song to react to, I like many and also haven’t listen to them all yet, but I really love “The Hunger” (more rap style and super creative), “How to be me” with Chinchilla and the live version of “Animal Flow”. Hard to pick one! Thanks again and big hugs to you too from Argentina! :))

[@StrateleStudios]

@@MCeciPinto Beautiful, intelligent and thoughtful reply Cecilia! Everything you said is true. I hope you stick around as you add value to my channel! I look forward to doing your request. All my best, Jeff 🤍

[@pcwcol]

Yes, I also appreciate that approach to reaction videos.

[@nedheadwyoming]

❤your perspective.

[@bluescanfly1981]

Ren is pure creative force - discovering him is like discovering Miles Davis, things just won't be quite the same afterwards.

[@pyewacket24]

Yesssss

[@duanehirini2078]

He needs to do a theatre show with just the acoustic, with dancers and actors supporting him on stage. That would be a hell of a show

[@bluescanfly1981]

@@duanehirini2078 In the Hawkings interview he mentioned that he's really into the visual arts and would love to do either movies or theatre

[@francesdoll4039]

Watch the Tales of Jenny and Screech (full). Or Chalk Outlines with Chinchilla next or Sick Boi . Enjoy the beauty and creativity of this young man. He does it all across genres. Writes, directs, produces, beatboxes, sings raps. He is independent and his fans are fierce!

[@vieella389]

For me, this is what it was like when I discovered Jethro Tull at age 14.

[@justinatest9456]

"Didn't expect that." Get used to that. That's Ren in a nutshell.

[@GneasYTC]

Exactly: 1st Woo-oo-oo-oo-oo.. "I didn't expect that!" and then the standard stunned silence at the end, broken only by "wow!". 🤣 I think every single person reacted that way the first time watching 'Hi Ren'. I know I did. And I've been trapped (willingly) in the Ren rabbit hole ever since, with side excursions to the Chinchilla rabbit hole.

[@StrateleStudios]

Ya, at first I thought he was mostly being funny but then I realized what he was doing and my disposition shifted. By the end, I was gutted.

[@bosbornefischer]

You should check out his duets with Chinchilla--How to be Me and Chalk Outlines. They are equally as powerful as Hi Ren, and Chinchilla is exquisite and powerful.

[@alimac1469]

In my almost 70 years, I have never been affected by an artist on so many levels as I am by Ren. He is a genius and his one take live works are masterpieces. The Tale of Jenny and Screech trilogy is a must see, as well as heaps of others of course.

[@LordAnubis85]

I just discovered Ren for the first time yesterday and then proceeded to watch 2 and a half hours of "Hi Ren" along with reaction videos. I was in tears. The more I watch it, the more I see Ren's struggle.

[@StrateleStudios]

@@LordAnubis85 I totally understand that

[@snakelite61]

That shift was what made your reaction great. You were grinning through most of it and I was wondering if it was going to happen and it did. Subbed.

[@flint818]

When I see a person react to a piece of music I have already seen 100 times, but that reaction is genuine and heartfelt, it makes me feel as if it were the first time. I get to feel all the emotions again as if it were new to me. This is one such reaction, thoroughly enjoyed it. Thank you.

[@StrateleStudios]

Love that, thank you!

[@mikemedrano8579]

Same here. I don't want to see anyone cry but I do seek out reactors who get this performance like I did. Soooo many watches after full on sobbing the first ten or so times I still well up when I see someone realizing what is happening at different points of the song. I look forward to more Ren reactions and seeing what else he's capable of (pretty much everything). Peace and strength to everyone here.

[@michellepetrillo2235]

“So cower at the man I’ve become When I sing from the top of my lungs That I won’t retire, I’ll stand in your fire Inspire the meek to be strong”. The most inspirational line in the song, for me, anyway…. 😀❤️👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻

[@StrateleStudios]

So good!

[@JB50713]

Gives me goosebumps every time. On the 20th time at least.

[@mburkitt7678]

In regard to his abilities as a guitarist, vocalist in different styles, storytelling, lyrics, and stage production, this is the most all-encompassing performance I have ever seen.

[@greenmonster4918]

Wait to you see "the tale of jenny & Screech (full)", also by Ren.

[@mburkitt7678]

@@greenmonster4918 I have seen that one, too. I am still exploring/enjoying Ren's world, though.

[@danaoleary680]

@@mburkitt7678 ❤

[@the-dave-house-project]

A 9+ minute song that passes and feels like 3 minutes, leaving you wanting more. Pure creative genius grounded in such steeping reality that it continues to leave me with a tear in my eye even after hearing it 100 times. So much looking forward to where Ren's career takes us in the decades to come.

[@StrateleStudios]

It really did go by fast!

[@miamoisaofficial]

I'm a new artist , my fan base is very Little but very warm! I just uploaded my latest videoclip "Amy Run" on my channel , which talks about Panic Attacks. I would love to make people discover my work 🖤

[@arklilbro]

All done in one take

[@ChrisLawton66]

There are multiple edits. The audio is one take, though. The fourth take.

[@arklilbro]

I’m no expert, just repeating others comments

[@ChrisLawton66]

@@arklilbro I only know because of the cinematographer Samuel Perry-Falvey's comments.

[@amandavanwyk5424]

You’ve only just scratched the surface of what he can do. He’s an amazing storyteller, like a bard or a modern day Shakespeare. Then he was in a busking band in the UK. Those street performances are amazing. He also does duets with a singer called Chinchilla and does a lot of solo rapping stuff. His rabbit hole is deep and varied. Looking forward to seeing more reactions from you.

[@elisabetholsen5478]

Yeah.. especially when he sings "I shot the sheriff" the Bob Marley cover. Ren is pure art.

[@StrateleStudios]

Looking forward to it!

[@summ_gerl]

I think he has called it bardcore

[@alanwhetstone3922]

Keep your hands and feet inside the car at all times and your mind open. Welcome to the REN-aissance!

[@philk9227]

Great comment! 😀👍

[@StrateleStudios]

😄👏👏👏

[@RonNL70]

I'm so glad you reacted to Ren. A true ARTist in every way. He's very versatile to say the least. A rabbithole well worth diving into. Also his band, The Big Push and the collaborations with Sam Tompkins, Chinchilla, Eden Nash, to name a few. All are amazing tracks and beautiful performances.

[@quinto34]

Best nine minute therapy session ever..

[@StrateleStudios]

YES!

[@manna6618]

Ren saved my life. X

[@justinatest9456]

This was a one take performance, with a few additional shots edited in for the close-ups at the end. All that back and forth was done live. Incredible. He has a ton of great music to hear, but as a musician I think you'd be most impressed by the trilogy 'The Tale of Jenny and Screech'. It's another long one at over 13 minutes, but it's a very powerful and impressive performance. It's three songs that were recorded over several years, in a one-take performance per song, and then later compiled into one single video. Ren is an amazing independent artist with a huge back catalog. Once you've worked your way through some of it and begin to feel like you have him figured out, I'd really recommend his recent interview with Justin Hawkins, where he surprised me once again, by revealing himself to be a very sweet and endearing chap, very humble, open, and honest. He is a very refreshing artist in an industry filled with duds and dirtbags. Ren deserves all of the support he is receiving. This was a great reaction, and I hope Ren gets to see it. Subscribed.

[@StrateleStudios]

Thanks for the sub!

[@SuddenRain777]

He recorded it live in one take with 4 cameras. That’s why you see him remove the mic off his collar when done. It’s a unique experience.

[@jimidave6281]

"That was incredible". Yep. He's probably the most interesting artist I've seen in a VERY long time.

[@Tandy_Hard]

Me watching your reaction: "Yaaas... This guy gets it!" 🥰🙏🏽❤️ Welcome to the Reniverse! Dive down the Ren rabbit hole, we've all been waiting for you. Down here, there's beautiful & amazing music abound. ❣️

[@StrateleStudios]

Amazing and unexpected video! Loved it!

[@roystevenson9632]

Everything about this modern masterpiece is outstanding, even the lighting casting two shadows…mind blown! This should be part of every high school curriculum.

[@manjitu4253]

Loved your reaction sweety. I'm a 65 years old soon to be grandma from UK and I have not been this excited about a singer since Jeff Buckly or Freddie Mercury. Loved your tenderness at the end there xx please react to Rens collab Humble...and if you want to see his rap skills...Hunger and Genesis xx

[@StrateleStudios]

I'm a HUGE fan of Jeff Buckley as well (and Freddie of course). I have a feeling I will be doing a lot of Ren on the channel!

[@stigish]

Your smile in infectious! I get such joy watching people discover Ren, and hear them inevitably say "didn't expect that" with almost every new song 😁

[@StrateleStudios]

😊😊😊🫶

[@lavenderbluemama953]

Hi Jeff! Ren gives us so much to appreciate. You'll love & enjoy all his music if you continue down his path. I have watched countless reactions to this one & I still cry every time. There are many musicians who make you feel something by telling their own story in their music. But only some who make you feel like they're telling YOUR (the listener's) story. And then far fewer still who use their story to poetically extrapolate something as simultaneously dire & hopeful as the struggle of the human condition. Where we strive to make the most of the best parts of ourselves & try to minimize or go beyond the confines of the worst parts of ourselves. Until I heard this song, I've always felt it was an exhausting battle, everyday, to overcome, block out, or ignore the constant negative, critical, hateful voices within myself. Ren's describing it as an eternal pendulum was an epiphany for me. And even though I don't need to necessarily embrace those voices, I can maybe learn, even at my age, to soften my stance against them & hush them like outta line teenagers, instead of trying to out-scream them. At any rate, I can probably credit them for my propensity for verbosity & sarcastic banter. [Speaking to my inner voices] Listen up, you raging banshees, that's the extent of praise you'll receive from me, so feast away & make it last, ya freakin' mean girl bitches! Ahem. Sorry. It appears I need more practice. For the record, I do not speak to real life teenagers this way. Thank you Ren, for your life-changing music. And thank you Jeff, for your reaction.

[@StrateleStudios]

Beautiful comment!!!

[@CabinFever52]

This comment brought another big smile to my face.

[@lavenderbluemama953]

@@CabinFever52 I'm so glad! When releasing one's manic cyclonic thoughts into the ether, it's a relief to know they can prompt a smile! 😊

[@CabinFever52]

@@lavenderbluemama953 , you should give Ren a call. You both have a gift of words. 🤩

[@Cobra-sy3sv]

I've watched so many reactions to this song and yours is great! So genuine and understanding.

[@StrateleStudios]

Thank you! 😊😊😊🫶

[@markames6030]

He did four takes and chose the best one to put out there. Which is even more incredible that this was done in one take.

[@rjams8953]

It was a live, single take video withmultiple cameras and a few cuts. His talent level is through the roof.

[@samgardiner771]

That was probably one of the best reactions I've seen so far, thank you for commenting at the end and not a multitude of times in the duration. Watching your reaction at the end during the epilogue actually made me feel emotional, again. Thank you, Subscribed 🇬🇧🇺🇸

[@CabinFever52]

I had the same reaction to his reaction after watching hundreds of them already.

[@StrateleStudios]

Thank you so much...I almost lost it at the end.

[@StrateleStudios]

@@CabinFever52 Thank you so much!

[@rebeccaburnell9319]

@@StrateleStudios I could see it flickering and flitting across your face. I can never understand how someone can have such a lockdown on their emotions that there's no sign of it at all as they watch this video! I've watched reaction after reaction after reaction to this performance for the last 6 weeks, and I still sometimes utterly break down. The relentlessness of Ren's harsh inner critic, in the rapping verses, just destroys me because it's so real, and the beauty of his incredible talent overtakes me. Another reactor I really enjoy, Michael Goyette, said he's gone 30 years since last being affected by an artist like this and he'd come to think he'd never experience that feeling of 'music is going to change because of this' again. He may not be the only person who had that thought, but he's the first person I saw say it. As a fellow Gen X'er who worked in a big music store as Nirvana and grunge exploded into the mainstream, I fully agree with him. And having spent the last 6 weeks delving into Ren's extensive catalogue of music, I'd say he blows Nirvana out of the water. It's unreal how many genres this one person has actual mastery and fluency and genius in. He doesn't just 'try them on' to see if he can pull it off, he just... exists within music; it moves through him. He's like the Neo of music or something. That sounds... outrageous, exaggerated. But go listen to his other stuff and tell me it isn't true.

[@elcardil]

I also noticed that his strumming hand also tapped and got percussive when he was in his not so nice state but was smooth and settled in his smoother state.

[@FaintlyTapping]

Welcome to REN’s rabbit hole. He has a great catalog spanning from rap to reggae and much in between. Truly a Bob Dylanesque poet and musician of this age. You won’t be disappointed as you explore his performances like Bongo Bong, I Shot the Sheriff/Road to Zion/Hip Hop, and duets with Chinchilla. Looking forward to seeing more of your reactions to Ren and his band, The Big Push.😊

[@ukdnbmarsh]

a Masterpiece - this is without doubt the song of the decade #Ren

[@jackieroberts7895]

Ren is the welsh bard of wales the land of song and poetry cymru am byth 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁷󠁬󠁳󠁿 ❤

[@helenjarvis7755]

Everything you said 💛🎶🎶🎶🔥 Its well worth the journey made my 2023 🎉

[@StrateleStudios]

🙂🙂🙂

[@salishseamermaid]

Great reaction! Ren is a musical chameleon, bending and blending genres into his own, wonderfully unique creations.

[@ainemcintyre8910]

Great first reaction, Ren and his music bring so many thoughts and emotions to the surface. Enjoy jumping down the Ren rabbit hole. It's an amazing experience.

[@StrateleStudios]

Can't wait for more!

[@woodywoodman2319]

Ren is a multi instrumentalist, performs in Many different genres!! His Jenny and Screech trilogy should be next! Just make sure it's the Full version! It has all 3 stories, in order, in one video! His storytelling and guitar Work are Astonishing!!!!

[@StrateleStudios]

For sure yes!

[@aimeekeel]

Ren has a very eclectic catalog that I think you will enjoy.

[@StrateleStudios]

I look forward to seeing more!

[@hammesl6557]

Great reaction! I guess the full tale of Jenny and Screech would be the natural next step. Again great channel 👍🙂

[@StrateleStudios]

Thank you! Ya, I believe that will be my next one. 😃

[@blissweb]

What wonderful reaction. Its really nice to see people who see all the musical and creative skills ... and not just the lyrics. Ren is probably the most important artist to emerge in the past 20 years, and like you said, we're all wishing he gets the recoognition he truly deserves.

[@StrateleStudios]

Thank you blissweb. 😊😊😊

[@damienmaynard8892]

Powerful stuff. He lived every line of that. I know others who have and do still dance with the pendulum. Keep dancing, when the pendulum stops, like a metronome, the music, the dance, light and time stop too.

[@Ray1969.]

Very smart, insightful and honest reaction. You had the same reaction as I did, smiling at first and then holding back tears. That is what true art is supposed to do. Brilliant

[@StrateleStudios]

Totally took me for a ride. Loved it!

[@ThomasSommer-f3n]

Watched A LOT of Hi Ren reactions. Definitely one of my favorites here. No attempt at being anything but real. Love the obvious emotion. This piece has affected so many people from all walks of life and catalyzed (bout damn time) a fan base who all share at least one thing in common, Love Music.

[@StrateleStudios]

Thank you so much! I look forward to doing more reactions of REN’s videos!

[@dergotterbote4039]

ren touches and makes people cry. he goes to the origin of music and wakes us up from a unconcious use of what is called music in ourdays. it's his and our time

[@johnd256]

Loved watching the realization wash over you. That is what i watch hi ren reactions for. Welcome to the Renfest.

[@ShaleAudio]

Musician/Producer smiles while shaking his head back and forth during "Hi Ren" by Ren

[@jhayley72]

This song was what brought me to Ren. I had never heard such heartfelt lyrics. I soon fell down the Ren rabbit hole and still live each and every song he has made. A true genius of our time ❤. Great reaction

[@sicpuppy9500]

Great reaction. We are witnessing an amazing talent like never before. Anyone that go down the Ren rabbit hole will see just how lucky we are to be witnessing the new RENaissance. Follow along and enjoy.

[@StrateleStudios]

Thank you!

[@ironkim3998]

I’m in tears and deeply affected by this! He really gets it! And man can he play the guitar! I enjoyed it so much I’m looking more up already! Thank you ❤

[@StrateleStudios]

Pretty powerful message 💪 and heartbreaking ❤️‍🩹

[@adamarndt7617]

Your reaction was outstanding! Way too many people just want to jump in and pause a million times and over-analyze it. Getting to see your excitement and interest at the musical and storyline twists was awesome.

[@StrateleStudios]

Thank you so much! I didn't want to miss a thing.

[@kasperorganics-organiccott6881]

I have watched this many times, and every time it brings the tears.

[@CasperLD]

Ren is a one in a Trillion kind of talent.

[@ClearTheRubble7]

Excellent reaction, and immediate sub! It was great seeing your face going from amused smiles to stunned amazement. I'm an "old musician" who has played several instruments and styles of music in different venues, from classical to jazz to folk to rock--and Ren has been a great, cross-genre inspiration for me. Hi Ren is "only" the entrance gate for most of us. At first I thought that this song was his masterpiece, only to discover that it's just the tip of Ren's musical and artistic iceberg.

[@StrateleStudios]

Thank you! I can’t wait to see more from him! 😃👏👏👏

[@anonglakmoonwicha2726]

37 seconds and I already like your channel. almost everybody puts the artist being heard, in the corner and fills their screen with the most important part of the clip (themselves). Then you let him play, without stopping him all the time to tell us what you've understood. Good observations, good reaction, mate! indeed... extremely impactful!

[@StrateleStudios]

Thank you for noticing these details. I try to make my channel about the artists. I’m just going along for the ride. 😊🫶

[@StrateleStudios]

Read my reply to the pinned comment at the top. This applies to you as well! 🤍

[@dpaine6405]

The fact that Ren is making such a massive impact at this time in our history tells me that it is indeed God given. Lord only knows this world needs more Ren right now and no less important is the healing I hope Ren is experiencing. Great reaction, now, fall down that rabbit hole, I promise you won't regret it!

[@StrateleStudios]

Let's do this!

[@danielmeola3651]

First time here, and yet suscribed, loved your analysis and reaction, go deep with ren, there's rap, singing, stotytelling, all welldone. I'm sure suggestions will explode. Thanks.

[@StrateleStudios]

Thanks Daniel! 😊

[@Medicinemen100]

Welcome to Ren. An evolution in musical talent. From here goto The take of Jenny and Screeh and then continue down the Ren rabbit hole. This tune/video...live. No edits......

[@hallranch548]

I have seen this video, and reaction videos to it, more than a hundred times; and what blows my mind is that I continue to be captivated by the song and performance, only to realize late in the video that I am watching one guy, in one room with two lights, and it's just him, the lights, and his guitar.....no band, no special effects, no high dollar video. No, just him......Hats off to Ren, you did it as a one man band, one man video.....Thank You for this song, is has helped me heal in many ways.

[@Jadedxx]

Ren is truely one of a kind. I LOVE all these artists giving a huge 🖕 to the music industry and KILLING IT Independently 🔥🔥🔥Ren, Upchurch, ACal, Brodnax, Tom Macdonald, Demon Jones, Chinchilla and soooo many more. All are allowed to let their atristry and creativity shine not having to squeeze into a box that the Industry pushes them into.

[@davie261]

Great reaction, not pausing it during the video like many do, and waiting to the end for your comments. Bravo sir, great job.

[@StrateleStudios]

Thank you Davie! 😊

[@janetclaireSays]

I love that you didn't keep stopping it the way a lot of reaction videos do, it was great to see you react to the funny parts along with the serious and poignant parts. This is a masterpiece, a rock opera short!

[@StrateleStudios]

Thank you Janet! 😊😊😊🫶

[@timgrodesky4694]

That was so well done from every element. What a roller coaster ride! Speaking your truth is such a powerful thing. Thanks Jeff, this one really hit me hard.

[@TobiiRheaStarr]

There are definitely different stages of “grief” when first hearing this. First it’s a wtf I wasn’t expecting that yodelling type singing Second it’s a wtf is this Then laughing along Then wow, shit, now I feel guilty for laughing 😂 He really is incredible! I had to subscribe and come back to the start of your Ren rabbit hole journey. I’m loving your reactions. You seem like a kind gentle soul and it’s refreshing as I watch a lot of these and some people just show off for the camera and it gets boring or annoying especially with Ren as he is so complex and talented with all of his music/story telling but also he has his medical story and his general intelligence and kindness. So kudos to you 🖤

[@StrateleStudios]

I love this comment so much! 👏👏👏🫶

[@TobiiRheaStarr]

@@StrateleStudios 🖤🙏🏻

[@GreySubjects]

I do love the moment when he realizes this is just SO much more then just a song! Thank you from one of thousands, perhaps now millions, of Ren fans. Btw I never even knew that there was reaction videos before I saw Hi Ren, now I've seen more then I can count of just this song alone.

[@StrateleStudios]

That’s when my mind went 🤯

[@scottmoore3971]

You just letting it play and seeing your smiles made me tear up thanks.

[@StrateleStudios]

Thank you Scott! 🫶

[@cosmicdebris5260]

Besides the talent he is a beautiful soul. I have been privileged to watch him perform for several years. And he has a really fun side to him also!🌿💔

[@StrateleStudios]

It would be great to know him personally.

[@Bonjovicrzy]

It is very beautiful seeing your reaction Ren has touched many generations he is a very talented young man … They had 4 walkthrough rehearsal but it was shot live in one take with three cameras

[@drealyn1486]

Great reaction! There is not just a rabbit hole here, but a warren to explore for those who are willing to. I think I'm in good company in seeking out new reactors who have finally found Ren and look forward to seeing them experience his artistry.

[@StrateleStudios]

Thank you!

[@barflysportstv]

This has been nominated for a GRAMMY !

[@JensRandolff]

This was a very enjoyable, heartfelt reaction and commentary. I wrote this introduction to Ren when I first discovered him earlier this year, as there wasn’t a Wikipedia entry for people to look him up prior to March 2023. I have posted this info to every “Hi Ren” reaction I have come across since, and I hope it will be of some use to the uninitiated. “Hi Ren” is the song that put Ren on everyone's radar since December; it went viral and has garnered over 12 million views since its debut, but he has been creating great music for more than ten years. Ren’s music videos are generally recorded live, often in a single take, although not necessarily the first take, and from various camera angles. His release, "Sick Boi," is almost another chapter to "Hi Ren." Many of Ren’s songs resonate with people because he addresses struggles that many others face every day. Ren is an independent artist/singer/songwriter/busker from Brighton, UK. He plays multiple instruments (acoustic, electric, and bass guitar, piano, drums), has impressive vocals, is an excellent storyteller, and is quite the philosopher and poet. He is considered by many a modern-day bard; he calls his music “bardcore.” Ren’s earliest recordings on KZbin are from his time in a band called “Trick The Fox,” consisting of Ren and his buddies Charlie and Tommy. Unfortunately, the band performed only briefly due to Ren’s onset of health issues. They are very talented. A fun clip to watch is “The Mash Up.” Ren’s trilogy "The Tale of Jenny/Screech/Violet" has been likened to a Shakespearean tragedy and is a prime example of his genius; it is a master’s class in storytelling and also showcases his guitar skills. The three acts are haunting, and the conclusion will catch you off guard. The trilogy needs to be watched in the order given, as this is the flow of the storyline and is best watched as a whole rather than piecemeal. Ren’s collaborations with Chinchilla (“Chalk Outlines,” “How to Be Me,” “Sexual Healing,” “One Dance/Drunk in Love”) are beautiful and showcase his singing voice. His live music videos are especially impressive. Ren's personal reflections are threaded through many of his songs; "Insomnia," "Depression," “Diazepam," “Penitence,” “Dear God,” “Heretic,” “Dominos,” his "Freckled Angels" album, just to name a few, all deserve a listen. His song "Money Game" (Part I & II) is another recommendation, although it is less of a personal song than it is an indictment of greed and the resulting injustices in this world. Ren’s Hip Hop/Rap style songs are all worth checking out if you enjoy this genre; they are pretty amazing. Check out “The Hunger,” “Genesis,” “What You Want,” “Losing it (FISHER rap retake),” “Right Here, Right Now (Fatboy Slim one shot retake),” "Life is Funny," “Love Music (Parts 1, 2, and 3),” “Crucify Your Culture,” “Power,” "Hold On," his new release “Bittersweet symphony (The Verve retake),” and his latest release "The Illest Of Our Time," just to name a few. Ren's performances with Sam Tompkins (“Blind Eyed,” “Earned It /Mans World / Falling,” “Walking on the Moon/No Diggity,” “Feeling Good/Trouble So High/Masterblaster (Jammin'),” “Latch,” “Wild Thoughts/Crazy in love (Live Session),” “Same Old Situation (Live, feat. Ren),” “Improvising Around Stevie Wonder,” “What Went Wrong” Part I&II) are definitely a must. Also, his collaborations with Eden Nash (“Humble,” “Ocean”), Bibi (“Crutch,” “Ahiahiaoha”), Molly McKinna (“Penitence”), Orlean ("Jessica"), his former bandmate Romain Axisa (“French Song”), are all great. Last but not least, Ren’s busking sessions with Liv Sangster are awesome. I recently discovered that Ren also recorded a cover of “Can't Help Falling In Love (Elvis Cover),” that is simply beautiful. "The Big Push" (Ren Gill, Gorran Kendall, Romain Axisa, and Glen Chambers) busking sessions, concerts, and live recordings all are amazing and well worth checking out. All but the drummer sing lead vocals at times. Ren, Gorran, and Romain all play multiple instruments. Ren plays acoustic, electric, and bass guitar, piano, and drums. Gorran plays acoustic, electric, bass guitar, and harmonica. Romain plays acoustic, electric, bass guitar, ukulele, and piano. They are each incredibly gifted artists, and their solo work is completely different from each other. Well worth checking out. Their covers of "I Shot the Sheriff/Road to Zion/Hip Hop," "Wade in the Water/Nina Simone/Trouble so Hard," "Watch Out," “War Pigs,” “Roadhouse Blues,” "My Generation," “Paint It Black,” "An Englishman in New York," “Bongo Bong” are awesome. On “These Boots Are Made For Walking,” “Praise You” (Fatboy Slim Cover), “What Kind Of Woman Is This,” all three take a turn singing. The songs "Oh My Woman," “Swan Song,” “Sweet Little Lady," "It's Alright," “Dignity,” and so many others are equally impressive. The band, at least for the time being, performed their last official busking session and gave their last concert in September of last year (2022) due to the fact that Ren was leaving for Canada to undergo specialized medical care and surgeries for his multiple health issues. In anticipation of his stay in Canada, Ren prepared some music ahead of time to be released over the next six months that he expects to be gone. He released “Sick Boi” and “Bittersweet Symphony (The Verve retake),” which is another masterful work. Ren released his newest song, “Illest Of Our Time,” on his birthday, March 29. His newest release, "Animal Flow," is out now. I still fail to understand how Ren's YT channel has only 854K subscribers while his videos have garnered millions of views!?! What is wrong with people? I guess it is a sign of our times; this is a "me, me, me" society, and people just want to consume, unwilling to give back even as little as giving a video a "like" and subscribing to an artist's channel.

[@quantockbeech]

Hits home doesn't it?! He's a genius and it's very well worth exploring more of his music and collaborations. Great reaction video Jeff.

[@StrateleStudios]

I really does, wow...

[@foodandart5808]

Oh boy! There are so many great Ren songs, and check out his older stuff, as it's quite varied. You are in for such a treat!

[@StrateleStudios]

Looking forward to more!

[@edelgardgoldmann4542]

What a lovely reaction. ❤ Next step must be the trilogy "Jenny, Screetch and Violet". You will be speechless, I promise! Greetings from Germany👍

[@StrateleStudios]

That will be next!

[@maggiefollett636]

It's a breathtaking performance and your reaction is 100% perfect.

[@StrateleStudios]

Thank you so much Maggie! 🫶

[@hetherpickwell5174]

I absolutely cannot wait to watch your trip down the Ren rabbit hole!!

[@behinddreaming]

Welcome to the Ren train. It's an extraordinary journey to travel. Beautiful reaction ❤ In a very recent interview Ren did he mentioned that he directs these as well, on top of the many musical talents he possesses. The vision you see that comes out everytime weaves something so different each time. After months of trying to grasp what a master he is I'm starting to just grasp there is no limits for Ren. I wouldn't be surprised if one day he directs a film he wrote & composes the music. I want to see that film!

[@margaretc5679]

Thoroughly enjoyed experiencing this again for the first time with you!

[@StrateleStudios]

👏👏👏🫶

[@lillyvanpug]

Ren is a once in an era personification of pain creates art. This wonderful, eloquent and talented man has been through hell and back and managed to make the most versatile musical catalog I have ever encountered. Welcome to the rabbithole. Buckle up and prepare yourself to not be prepared with any of his songs 🐇🕳

[@kellygwdobbs]

Thank you. I loved your authentic review. I hear your voice shaking at 12 minutes something. I really felt those words.

[@StrateleStudios]

Thank you Kelly!

[@Emi-70]

I really enjoyed your reaction. Hi Ren is a true musical work of art that touches countless people. He manages to captivate the listener with his lyrics and his acting. I hope you continue to delve into the world of Ren. Every single one of his songs will surprise you. His last works go more into the rap genre (but definitly not standard rap), the next album should serve other genres again. He did great things with The Big Push in the areas of rock, reggae, ska, there are wonderful collaborations with Chinchilla and with Sam Tompkins or with Eden Nash and Bibi and other artists.

[@StrateleStudios]

I can't wait to see more!

[@sabrinaszabo9355]

It’s a new genre, of pure genius

[@ShucksHowdy82]

Ren is a genius. 1 of 1. I don’t say that lightly either. But he really is. His catalogue of music is so vast and easily the most diverse of any artist I know. He literally does it all. Just when you think you’ve heard him do it all, he surprises you. If you want to go on an emotional journey of pure masterclass storytelling I HIGHLY suggest “The Tale of Jenny & Skreech (full)”. NEXT LEVEL stuff.

[@Krise343]

Ren is a self taught genius.

[@matto9734]

Deep, with no filter and the setting reflected what his way was. The end is far more then just a sentiment, it was a dissection of the human condition - great stuff! Haven´t seen the song before in full lenght, so good to finalize on your channel Jeff!

[@StrateleStudios]

Thanks Matt!

[@meilaw2877]

Just sub for more Ren reaction...enjoy the Ren rabbit hole. His artistry is at another level. He is diverse in his expression..whether its through songs or rap...or the spoken word. He's a deep thinker, a poet, a fantastic guitarist n musician....and just a great down to earth human being. I'm looking forward to seeing you discover more of Ren n get mind blown.

[@davidrichard1851]

Hallelujah, Jeff ! So glad you've found Ren. I hope you will do a deep dive with this guy ! I truly believe you will find it musically fulfilling...He is a once in a lifetime artist, IMHO. Would love to see he and Aurora do something, since I consider them to be some of our best living talents in my nearly seventy years on the planet. And while I'm thinking of the greats, when is Dirty Loops going to drop their new project ? Thank you for your always informative and enjoyable reactions. Keep up the wonderful work !

[@StrateleStudios]

For sure more to come! I know I’ve been waiting so long for DLs new release. They’ve been busy with their live gigs.

[@guitarmuscle6968]

Great Reaction Sir hope you keep on reacting to Ren he has a lot for you to discover, he's an independent Artist who is a multi-instrumentalist, writes and produces all his own Music and releases it independently and has been doing so for years. I'm sure many more better informed people than me will give you his background, but a quick summary is that he was signed by Sony at young age but had to virtually give up Music soon after as he got ill, he was misdiagnosed for years and told all his symptoms were in his head and he was treated for various Mental illnesses when he fact he had Lyme Disease. This was eventually diagnosed 7 or 8yrs too late and a lot of damage was done to his body by the disease and drugs he was wrongly given, he is in Canada at the moment getting Specialist treatment trying to repair the Damage.

[@StrateleStudios]

Truly a sad and tragic experience he went through. We are blessed that he's sharing it with so many people who struggle as well.

[@Thomas.Saunders]

Another Ren fan who found my way to your channel via these reviews/reactions. Thanks for doing this one. You've got another new subscriber.

[@StrateleStudios]

Thank you! 😊

[@oceanlover650]

I love to see reactors hear his genius for the first time. You started with the right song, too. He's done work in a variety of genres (storytelling, rap, reggae, and songs and duets that really showcase his voice). His duet called "How to be Me" with Chinchilla has become one of my favorites. You're going to enjoy this ride! Subscribed!

[@StrateleStudios]

Looking forward to more! Thanks for the sub!

[@horsehollerer]

@@StrateleStudios "How to be me" with Chinchilla has been my favorite song by ANY artist for a while now. If you check it out, make sure you do the LIVE version as it's 10 x better imho. Thanks so much!

[@TofferJ-UK]

Super reaction to a special unique artist. ❤ 👍🇬🇧 I could see you so moved by the monologue, even recalling it after. Looking forward to you finding more of Ren vast range of skills and genres alone and in collaboration with other equally skilled unique talents. 😄

[@StrateleStudios]

I look forward to see more!

[@Jemmyjo]

I really loved your response, and I have easily listed to over 20. I can’t get enough of this song. I can’t get enough of Ren.

[@PeteFindsObscureStuff]

Great reaction my friend. Welcome aboard the Ren Rollercoaster. Buckle up tight. It's a wild ride!!

[@StrateleStudios]

Thanks Pete!

[@813hustletrees8]

Brilliant reaction to an amazing piece of art can’t wait to see you go down the Ren rabbit hole. Money game 1 and 2 would be neat to see you react to 👍

[@Surrfside24]

i had found ren for the first time tonight around 9:30pm, i've been watching reacts to it since and realized its almost 1am now. i can't hear it enough times.

[@MatthewC137]

Well I had to subscribe. Your reaction was among the best and I've seen hundreds at this point. Since I'm not a musician I am very interested to hear what "insiders" like yourself have to say about Ren's diverse talents.

[@StrateleStudios]

Thank you so much! I plan to do much more from Ren!

[@amygoodson-catlady]

Jeff, I've never heard you say, "umm", so many times in a reaction! We can only see this for the 1st time once...and its an experience! I could hear the emotion in your voice...next time *everyone* tells you to check something out...maybe don't wait so long! So much more for you to discover! This young man IS a genius!

[@StrateleStudios]

Hahaha, you never know do you? I’ve had some dud suggestions in the past so it’s hard to tell but I started to get a lot more requests for Ren recently so I had take a chance. So glad I did!

[@amygoodson-catlady]

@Stratele Studios Me, as well... whether it's rapping, singing or playing guitar... I love this young man! You will enjoy his beautiful duet w Chinchilla... Chalk Outlines live... just stunning talent from both! You know me kinda...I'd never suggest a dud! (I mentor small channels so I kinda know what's working and who's amazing!)

[@hartson522]

I’ve seen countless reactions to this, and while MANY were fantastic (in my opinion) I enjoyed yours above all. You were enthralled and respected the entire video perfectly! Cheers to you. I immediately subscribed.

[@StrateleStudios]

Thank you so much, that means a lot to me.

[@dianeemanuel8541]

He has great variety in his solo work. He was in a band the Big Push - fantastic original songs - but their busking videos are pure magic. They make these mashups of 3 or so songs and make them their own. The joy they exude jamming together is so infectious. They he performs haunting duets with Chinchilla - How To Be Me and Chalk outlines. He performs doily duet with Sam Tompkins - Blindeyed…

[@terrieb13]

Great reaction to a brilliant performance! I love to see people’s first reaction to Ren. He is a genius! You’ll be amazed repeatedly by his talent. His band, The Big Push, is also great! Enjoy this journey into the Reniverse. ☮️❤️😎

[@StrateleStudios]

Thank you! 😁

[@poolhallshark]

Great reaction Jeff. I believe you just reacted to the biggest musical and lyrical genius of our time. I was absolutely stunned when I saw this when he released it. It left an impact. I guess it leaves an impact on everyone who watches it, regardless of mental struggles or not. Take care ! Love from Norway ♥♥♥ Btw, 5 days ago Angelina dropped her single from her upcoming debut album. The song is called "Love Don't Let Me Go".

[@StrateleStudios]

Thank you, my friend. I can't wait to see more!

[@laurentyvangurewitch3940]

I would love to see you do more Ren. He is magic and you are someone whose reactions I love (Nightwish!).

[@StrateleStudios]

I’ll definitely do more Ren! 😊

[@sketchtherapy1218]

Thank you for your time. If you want to see him truly be a Bard you have to see "The Tale of Jenny and Screech" it's basically a play in 3 acts (act 1 Jenny, act 2 Screech, act 3 Violet IN THAT ORDER) In it he plays the part of the Bard it starts in London 2019 (two zero one nine) in a place called Paddington. It's filmed in the streets 1 shot per act (probably took a few takes to get that perfect one shot) again thank you for your time. Have a great day. AWESOME GUITAR IN JENNY AND SCREECH

[@StrateleStudios]

Sounds great I’ll do that!

[@sketchtherapy1218]

@@StrateleStudios appreciate you blessings from Puerto Rico.

[@StrateleStudios]

@@sketchtherapy1218 🫶🫶🫶

[@jazzylyn5857]

Good idea to go straight to Ren's Money Game Part 2 now, as there's some bits in that which help to understand some bits in here. Enjoy your Ren Rollercoaster. I'm still on it, and loving it.

[@dianeemanuel8541]

I’m so excited to see you have found Ren. OMG You will love this universe.