Ren "Hi Ren" has me in tears. Vocal ANALYSIS of one of the most moving videos I've ever watched.

[@martingilluk]

Lovely analysis and authentic care for your listeners. Martin Ren’s dad ❤

[@pastorofmuppets13]

Sending all positive energy to Ren and the whole family. His music is affecting so many people. I am a 57 year old mom from Florida and it has connected with me profoundly. So just tell Ren thanks ❤

[@cas9065]

This all must be quite a strange experience for you all, especially while Ren is struggling with such intrusive medical treatments. He has changed so many lives in these two months. Have you discovered a reactor called Liquor & Woahs? He has just made some major changes in his life and channel, largely triggered by Hi Ren. He went back to a second reaction to Hi Ren to explain just how much he has been affected by Ren, and how. I hope this all will have a similarly good effect on him and those around him.

[@KCsFunHouse]

As someone who’s chronically ill finding Ren’s music has been so inspiring. It’s sometimes hard to explain to people how hard it can be. Ren has captured it perfectly! Sending healing vibes from the US

[@tomclem1]

​@@KCsFunHouseI suffer from chronic illness, nothing like Ren, but I've been dealing with it since I was 6 months old, I'm almost 37. This song hit me hard the first like 50 times I've listened to it. I cried several times

[@RareRootsOfJoyMelbourne]

I literally have no words. Except that I wish you and your family - and of course, Ren, all the peace and joy. I am speechless. I want to shout to everyone here in Australia that they need to hear this. I feel SO connected with it. ❤

[@lamusiclover2264]

He is really singing this live. NO autotune. This is high art, poetry, rap, dialogue, theater, performance art, incredible acting, and brilliant guitar playing all in one.

[@mikeparker7631]

ummm...are you trolling?

[@JimSealyJr]

@@mikeparker7631 Trolling? Did you watch the same video we did? This was so much more than just a musical performance. It was more like one act in a play. I was left wanting to know what happened next.

[@craiggagnon8407]

@@mikeparker7631 fuck off man, this kid is on fire...and yes, he's a one take artist

[@lamusiclover2264]

@@mikeparker7631 Trolling? No. Why would you even ask?

[@ddinfant679]

​@@lamusiclover2264 I think they thought you were being sarcastic...

[@mikes1362]

As I'm scrolling throught the comments, I can't help but notice how many people are openly revealing their own personal struggles to a group of complete strangers. THAT is how powerful music can be! Thank you Elizabeth for making this. And thank you Ren for sharing your video.

[@ericthompson3982]

He did something incredible.

[@tonyfro23]

I never dreamed Elizabeth would see this. You can't help it. Anyone reading watch the young man's catalog. It's all over the place and all good. I just watched Diazepam.....and he perfectly described living your life on valium....this is .001 % creativity and it does exactly what you said. I had my moment 3 years ago I'm done hiding my crazy but more the merrier all this helps so much

[@benejack666]

@Zombie Frogg And yet, that does not minimize the effect this song is having on people here on KZbin

[@almostdarkslide3851]

Isn't that called group therapy? There's only one difference, here the group is waaaaaay bigger!

[@deanlute794]

I'm with you I just tend to be careful not to fall back down the rabbit hole. It's up with a hole day of going dark. I just dip my toes and exit.

[@m3chsurdad]

Im a heavy metal guy and I think this is one of the best videos/songs ever put together

[@RuckusCity]

Feel this. 🔥🤘👹🤘🔥 ❄️🖕🥸🖕❄️

[@fieldsoftorment1]

Same

[@mrrooster7976]

me too man. Its dope

[@WelshBladerDad]

I literally live and breathe Megadeth and Pantera... but I completely agree, its absolute genius.

[@jburt779]

Me too. It took me two times to watch it all the way through the first time. Damn.

[@Hobodeluxe960]

Ren is wise beyond his years. I'm 63 and have struggled with depression, anxiety,insomnia etc since I was a child. When I was 7 I saw a man blow his brains out. Growing up in the 60's we had the cold war going on and us kids were being traumatized by "Duck and Cover" drills and air raid sirens etc, nightly news was all about Vietnam and dead bodies led their stories. Lost a lot of friends to auto accidents, 8 just in high school. So I can tell you for a fact that Ren is hitting on all cylinders with this. I lost my wife of 43 yrs a couple of yrs ago and this dance I'm doing now with my health quickly declining with my dark side is quite the struggle. This song helps. it heals. it's not just a song, it's a therapy session, it's a sermon, it's a testimony, it's art at it's highest form.

[@kylemiller8220]

Hobo... you have never been alone. You are now hearing the call. God's sweet comforting voice is what you have possibly misinterpreted in your youth as a judgment upon your secret fears. You are the same as the rest of us. We all sinned in the exact ways that you have... forgive yourself. CHRIST is waiting to introduce you to his father.

[@Hobodeluxe960]

@@kylemiller8220 nah I don't really believe any of that dogma of religion. I think we have a dark side and a light side and free will to choose which to listen to. But I don't believe in eternal damnation. Or an all powerful creator that exists external of us. More of a humanist approach I suppose.

[@phrike7588]

@@kylemiller8220 Wow. Really, stop pushing your beliefs on others. You might believe you're helping, but you're actually doing harm. You're making people feel guilt, like their problems are nothing, that they're actually just weak, that they deserve what's happening to them and that it's their own fault for uncontrollable things happening. Just stop.

[@jonathankall3062]

Hobo I am SO sorry for what you’ve been through as you’ve obviously been one that as Ren said has been “broken and beat” and I’m sorry for the loss of your wife as I’m approaching your age and that stage haven’t been with my high school sweethearts and 16 and I just can’t imagine what that will be like. Let me at least try to share my heart w you and bring some balance here with these two commentors - yes I think both of you are on extremes (UnGodlyU- your name speaks volumes- you’re actually hurting this poor soul more so than someone trying to give him hope (regardless of his personal beliefs). Hope all is acknowledge. This song has helped you and gives you power. The message of this song ends with hope, and finding some good through the battles and struggles of being “tested and twisted in being “beaten and broke“!! I’ve personally literally experienced a “Lazarus” miracle in my life with my wife, who was on her deathbed with a brain, bleed, coma, paralyzed, deaf, mute in a coma for 2 1/2 months in Neuro ICU - and after being prayed for by a missionary friend, got up and walked out of there a month later, and all the neurosurgeons said there’s no precedent in the entire field of neuroscience that anyone at a grade 4 out of 5 (subarachnoid hemorrhage patient) ever recovered to her level -after a lifetime of therapy - much less GOT up and walked out of Neuro ICU!!! All this to say it changed our entire family and all my daughters lives and well will never understand all the answers of why we’re allowed to go through what we go through until we reach whatever eternity holds for us. The point is we all need to, like Ren, grab onto hope, and grab onto life and others in our life, and find some meaning in at all!! Hobo, please listen to Ren’s song from years ago -in the middle of his illness’s - when he made a decision come Hell or Highwater, to fight his way through this, and hold on to the golden cord of Hope, which is stronger than any thing else in the universe -to keep us going - called -_-__-_- (ugh just escaped me- (possy patience??) -I will link it in next post here so I can go look up the correct name after typing here - I’ve been listening to every REN song he’s ever done since this- and I’ve probably listen to this HI REN song and reactors to the song, at least 200 times myself to keep me going hobo!!! ). Full disclosure well, always believing in God was never so personal and real and alive until my wife got healed -literally miraculously healed while my friend prayed and cleaned her healing “in Christ’s name” - her paralyzed arm twitch like a lightning bolt, and she slowly began to completely regain her entire body and mind! I do now have an undescribable connection that’s tangible with my higher power who in our case is God, the Christian God / Jesus. I am not preaching. I am just sharing some thing I live through that I believe happened because I’m supposed to share it and mostly because I have also lived being twisted and torn and beaten and broke, and I’m still going through hell right now, as we reach this old age, but my hope and faith keeps me going and vibrantly alive hobo!! it’s OK that you don’t believe right now -fit yourself just open up your mind “to the possibility” that there’s a higher power there and you don’t have to prescribe to all the specific religious dogma’s - just consider the possibility that there is a higher power behind all this and you can have a connection there and that connection is, as REN called IT … HOPE!!! my heart is with you and I am going to pray for you, and I hope you can sincerely take a sincere attempt to connect and reach out to you just to help you find some hope and get through this thing called life! Love Jonathan …. (I will post one more comment with the name of that particular song of REN’s that I think will help you a lot !!)

[@jonathankall3062]

Part 2 / PS - Hobodeluxe960 (hobo sry) I WAS RIGHT - the SONG IS “PATIENCE” - and this time starts with his verbal sharing of what he’s going through and then he goes into the song who wrote about it called Patience! Here kzbin.info/www/bejne/aGmXppqkiMSlq7M

[@JerryFulwider]

I am a veteran with really bad PTSD and an anxiety disorder. I found this song and IT, was the voice I heard that loosened my noose on the rope ..... I sent it to therapist.... He used it for several other vets who all broke down... Thanks for doing this "Bohemian Rhapsody" for this generation....

[@simontemplar3359]

Thank you for your service. I hope your journey continues. Ren has more songs about his journey, and the light he found at the end of the tunnel. Best wishes, and many thanks. God bless.

[@davewilson4493]

That was such a moving reply. I wouldn't presume to compare my history to yours, but *that* line still hit even me like a ton of bricks. Ren reaches so many people, with an outstretched human hand, to let them know that they are not alone. My heartfelt best wishes to you.

[@melbellgiveemhell3220]

❤

[@samwise413]

First of thank you for your service and I hope this song helped you. I just wished my son had also heard it. He suffered from bipolar and had a really hard time. However he lost his battle 2 years ago. I cry everytime I see this song.

[@rrael]

Respect, man. This song hits me hard too. I'm glad it helped you. It really is a work of art.

[@Alexrider02]

I'm surprised you didn't linger longer on my favorite line in the whole song, "Cause I go by many names also. Some people know me as hope. Some people know me as the voice in their head as they loosen the noose on the rope." Gives me chills every time I hear it.

[@MacSvensson]

What I get from the song is this eternal struggle between the positive and negative. We are the only (or at least one of a very few) species that have conscious thought. Consciousness includes self-consiousness. The flip side of the medal is doubt. And self-doubt. It's yin and yang, good and evil, gods and demons. I am absolutely blown away by this performance. Ren is a true grandmaster in his craft, a true artist also. No doubt about that. This song has brought to the surface questions long ago buried deep inside me. Buried because I could not find a satifactory answer. I guess I'll have to try once more.

[@kleigho123]

@Zansi This is also the line that resonates with me most. I hope you find peace, friend. I hope we all do. 💚

[@tonyfro23]

​@@MacSvenssonnot only is this well said...exact same feeling on the end of your well written thoughts.

[@johnplaysgames3120]

Same. Tbh, that's the line where my eyes immediately spring an instantaneous surprise leak (assuming they haven't already by that point in the song). Like, I'm sure, a lot of us who enjoy and unfortunately identify with "Hi Ren," I do know what that moment of loosening the noose on the rope feels like (for me, literally; for others, maybe metaphorically). I'm not sure I would've called it "hope" in the moment so much as fear of taking an unrecoverable step prematurely... but then I guess that kind of is a form of hope, yeah? Hope that some other solution will present itself, even if it seems impossible in the moment. Anyway, yeah, that line hits me every time too. That and the whole section where he's mocking himself for not having Grammys, an Oprah interview, etc. and for not being original, just ripping off everything from other artists. As a professional creative, that mental conversation hits way too close to home... Fortunately, as a professional creative *for many years*, I also recognize that that's just part of the creative process and that every artist, no matter the medium, wrestles with some form of that feeling, whether it's straight-up "imposter syndrome" or some toxic form of perfectionism. As I've said to friends in the past, "Why do you think so many artists were alcoholics and drug addicts?"

[@johnplaysgames3120]

@@MacSvensson It's not just self-consciousness, it's also that we have a sense of the passage of time, which allows us to anticipate situations and outcomes before they happen. A dog's sense of "the future," e.g., is pretty much relegated to "I'm going to bury this bone in the yard so no one can steal it before I dig it up and enjoy it again." And, heck, that may be more instinct than actual forethought. Humans, though, can worry about things that haven't happened yet (and which may never happen), things that *might* or *could* happen (regardless of how likely or unlikely), and things which *almost* happened but didn't (the number of people I know who still talk about a car accident (or other bad situation) they were ALMOST in years ago is ridiculous). Also, unlike animals -- and this speaks to the self-consciousness you mentioned -- we can make plans, anticipate the possible future we're trying to set up, and then be absolutely devastated when those plans are thwarted or, for whatever reason, don't come to fruition. The disconnect between our imagined future situation and the one in which we actually find ourselves can be a huge source of mental pain. That's another thing an animal doesn't do. My dog, e.g., has no regrets about his career, a failed marriage, or not having written the great American novel. My dog does not care that he hasn't sold as many albums as Rihanna or that he can't even sing in tune. Also, it's worth noting that, biologically, our brains are not wired to pay special attention to good thoughts and good things. The animal part of our biology is still wired for primitive survival and, thus, our brains focus on the negative -- i.e. potential threats -- rather than the good stuff. Why? Because the negative stuff - the dangers - could affect your survival as a primitive person or animal. A nice, lazy summer afternoon where you can just chill by the pond and enjoy the big critter you took down with your spear earlier, though...? Not as important for your brain to pay much attention to because, outside of making sure you eat, there's nothing in a nice, lazy summer afternoon relaxing by a pond that our animal brains see as making a difference to your survival chances. We can sit and enjoy the break but our brains are just scanning and looking out for the next potential threat to raise an alarm about in order to make sure the vessel stays alive. Basically, the evolution of our biology hasn't caught up with the evolution of society and so our kneejerk tendencies are to look for danger rather than happiness. Because we're not living in the wilderness and surviving like cave-people anymore, though, means the "dangers" we encounter on a day-to-day basis are not the same kind our primitive ancestors would've encountered. Because of this change in context but NOT in biology, our brains struggle to tell actual danger apart from "potential discomfort" that we worry *might* happen. This is why many modern people might find themselves going into a "fight or flight" response over something as simple as having to speak in front of a large group, breaking up with someone they're not interested in, or dealing with the IRS over some tax issue. We know intellectually these things are not life-threatening but our dumb animal brains still identify the potential discomfort we anticipate from any of those situations (being embarrassed, being uncomfortable, being vulnerable, etc) in the same way it would've processed an incident of physical danger in primitive times. So, yeah, I think part of the reason so many people are suffering mentally these days is because there's a disconnect between the reflexes of our primitive nature and the reality of the modern context in which we find ourselves. We're tigers who find ourselves working in factories and buying food out of vending machines instead of living and hunting like tigers. Please note: I'm not one of those people who think that this means we should roll society back to some previous historical form so we can live like the animals that we biologically are. And I certainly don't hold up our primitive selves as the "natural" state that we should aspire to. I don't ascribe any special "wisdom" to ancient peoples. I'm simply acknowledging that there's a disconnect between our nature and our society and that disconnect causes mental turbulence. And, to me, the solution is to recognize and accept that fact so we can ride out the transition - with all of its inherent struggles - without stigma, always understanding that the only way we ever catch our biology up with our society is to learn to master the animal parts of ourselves and allow the human part of ourselves to eventually become the instinct rather than the thing we have to struggle to incorporate. I think it's up to us to rise to the occasion, not bring the occasion down to our level. Of course, there are actual physical issues that can lead to lots of these things too - e.g. ADHD is generally a result of underdeveloped or damaged reward systems at the front and/or back of the brain which, in turn, cause impairment of executive function (thus ADHD is not really a "deficit" of attention so much as it's difficulty regulating attention because the level of dopamine and/or serotonin are too low) - and all the positive thinking in the world is not going to change that any more than it's going to grow someone's amputated leg back. Neither are supplements, special diets, or the usual organizational strategies used by neurotypical people. In those situations, just like in the song, the only real answer is to accept the struggles along with the strengths and realize that it's all a part of you. Good or bad, it's the situation in which you find yourself and pretending it isn't does you no good. All you can do is start where you are and try to continually move forward. Really, though, it's levels. We all struggle to some degree.

[@blarg7457]

I'm definitely late to the party but I've been struggling with a lot recently.. This hit me so damn hard, I've been sitting here in tears for the entire video, both for good and bad reasons. Thank you so much for putting this out there.

[@chrischerry7892]

Elizabeth, I am a 68 year old subscriber. As the years went by, I listened to less and less music. Then, I discovered you. Your enthusiasm for music is contagious, and I have fallen in love with music all over again. Because of you, I have listened to music that I never would have considered. For example, Disturbed. The name was a hard no for me. And then with your help, I listened to "The Sound of Silence." I was blown away. And, I hear "Hi Ren." I have a child (young adult now) who has struggled with very similar issues as Ren. The tears flowed as I gained a better understanding of what my child struggles with. After years of continual therapy, there is amazing improvement and hope for a fullfilling future. I am struck by your fantastic attitude and support of artists. I have watched more than half of your analysis videos and interviews. I want to thank you from the bottom of my heart. What you are doing matters for so many people, artists, patrons, human beings.

[@Pepperwindu]

Never stop listening to music. Jim Steinman said. The beat is yours forever, the beat is always new. And when you really, really need it the most, that's when rock and roll dreams come through, for you

[@pseudomaso]

Thank you for sharing this Elizabeth. Gives me hope that I myself might be able to find beauty in things later in life since it is so hard for me to find it in my life as it is now.

[@harpoon308]

I think you just gave the greatest compliment to her channel ever. Hat's off Sir. I agree with you.

[@michaelhall5429]

​@@pseudomasobeauty never disappears, we just get worse at looking out for it, or caught up in all the ugliness we see or jaded about how beautiful it really is. Its still there. It will always be there.

[@chrischerry7892]

@@harpoon308 Thank you!

[@johnkelley7257]

Former marine here who has struggled with somethings for many years. Mainly survivor's guilt as i came home and some friends didnt. I had that voice that kept telling me i shouldnt or didnt deserve to come home. Almost gave into that voice a few times. Found this one day and learned his story. It gave me the courage and drive to seek help and im in a better place than i have been in years.

[@hellscornalien8286]

Good! Please stay on that path of healing and forgiveness. Peace and love brother.

[@fredinalaska]

I'm happy you are still with us, I have guilt as well not from war but other struggles, thank you for your service that gives us our freedom brother , thank you very much for your sacrifice and loyalty

[@patrickcarlin9477]

Thank you so much for your sacrifice and bravery. I hope you find peace

[@richardhumungus3694]

Hey brother, former JTAC here, you deserve to be back home just as much as our brothers who didn’t come back. If circumstances were reversed, wouldn’t you want your brothers who embraced the suck and went down range with you to live free of guilt? We owe it to them to live full lives and never forget but the guilt is misplaced on your shoulders.

[@shanemurphy3417]

War ends when the pawns stop playing the game

[@drboz]

I’m a psychologist, and I can’t tell you how many times I’ve watched this performance, or how many tears I’ve shed. Everything is so perfect…or perfectly imperfect might be the best way to describe it. Even if you haven’t gone through what he has, you can identify with the voice of doubt trying to sabotage you. That voice is stronger for some than others, but we all know it…because we ARE all human. We’re flawed. The trick is finding a way to thrive (and sometimes just survive) in spite of it. It IS a pendulum, which means no matter how dark it gets, it’ll swing back. And yes, the reverse is true as well. And yes, it is an eternal dance that we all do. My favorite part is the end of the song where he’s so freely singing, lost in it like you said. He does this in spite of the fact that the lights are constantly flickering. It’s a beautiful message that, in the midst of chaos, you can still find your light to get you through.

[@panpiper]

I've listened to Hi Ren dozens of times now. There are tears throughout, every time.

[@raymondrobson4400]

That is very well put. I suffer from Tourettes Syndrome and for over 10 years was told my tics were just me looking for attention. I wasn't believed when I said I couldn't help it. It scarred me for life and I'm a shell of what I should have been. Started at 5 years old, diagnosed at 17. I'm now 62. But mental health help wasn't what it is today. Which, to be honest, is still severely inadequate. Congratulations Ren for finding yourself. I never did.

[@poozizzle]

Beautifully put.

[@poozizzle]

Oh...is the Devil just our inner doubt?

[@shannonstradford6518]

Watching ren reaction videos has become my new hobby … I really liked reading your impression of Hi REN … the thing that I love is the way he was searching, then found hope … but really this song and performance is a piece of art … it hits me differently at different times ❤

[@citycountrybbq]

That demon is more real than most think. Your description is amazing!

[@samschch5538]

Ren filmed and recorded this in 1 take. I am more impressed with this track than any other song ever written on nailing mental health issues. Ren you are a genius !

[@jmdeking]

Where can i find this information..? If thats true itse even more impressive.

[@scottmcelhiney323]

@@jmdeking Ren has done several interviews where he talked about how they made this... it's in the basement of his apartment building done without permission from the landlord. They apparently made 4 takes before they got caught, each one being a 'one take' with multiple cameras that were later editted. One of his room mates is his videographer and this cost about 1000 british pounds to make all inclusive. The audio and guitar are live captures, he's got what is apparently a really good lapel mic, and the guitar is plugged into a wireless setup under his gown. So much of it is amazing because or despite what they were working with. Ren's strugges and personal things make it amazing... upon first watching I was thinking to myself that I hope we aren't watching an amazing artist that will end up dead in a couple of years due to his mental issues. Having seen that someone figured out actual treatment for him (presently in Canada getting daily infusions and surgeries to correct some of the physical damage the Lyme Disease did to his body. He's experienced visual and auditory halucinations since he was about 6 years old and some of that has allowed him to create songs in a day that would take anyone else months or years to get close to, but he saw them in their entirety as visions. There is a video of his that he posted prior to getting diagnosed where he's just about at his end... scary and sad to see a human suffering as much as he was at that point. A long ways from where he's at now... getting healthier, preorders for his new album are in second place worldwide between Ed Sheran and the Rolling Stones... for a kid from Whales that has no label (Sony dropped him when his disease made him bedridden years ago.) Thank you for this reaction, it was my first hearing about Ren and weeks later I've spent a LOT of time down the rabbit hole of his deep catalog of work and just watching people react to this song and "the tale of Jenny and Screech (w/Violet's tale).

[@kellyahealey4324]

How you know that?

[@robdubent]

@@kellyahealey4324it’s known fact

[@SR1Records]

@@robdubent Glad you cleared that up, lol. I think they were likely asking for a link or something so they could look it up and read about it/listen to it. As would i. So if you do have any links they would be appreciated.

[@Tarantula7Tom]

Im a 32 year old man with Chronic Crohns Disease, Damaged spine (from an accident), Arthritis, multiple big hernias from previous abdominal surgeries, chronic pain and depression. This video gave me so much hope for the future. Its a true masterpiece! It's touched and inspired soo many people and will continue to for many years more. ❤️

[@joergojschaefer3521]

This is a real man's fight: fighting to resist your inner demons and not give in to them and break! 🤘

[@davidsmith6976]

STAY STRONG,YOU DESERVE IT.

[@sixslinger9951]

from one Les Paul player to another, I truly wish you well and hope you can heal.

[@MyCatFooed]

May God's Light Bless You. You fight!!

[@iburley_]

I used to think that the reason you were so good at this was your background as a classically-trained opera singer and your level of understanding of vocal abilities and techniques, but with every subsequent video I realize more and more that it's actually because you're such a strong empath. The training and knowledge certainly help you explain the technical side but what makes your videos so special is how strongly you feel the music. It's what makes us watch the video of you listening to our favorite songs and why it makes us appreciate those songs so much more. Thank you for sharing that with us.

[@RS43210]

That's a good take. And it's why I have been wanting this particular reaction to happen for a very long time, I knew it would, and I knew it would be good!

[@acceptyoureamazing]

Man, that's so well picked up. Just in the first minute or two Elisabeth physically leans in and in, is pushed back, like a piece of paper blown by the wind, she's so open, so receptive to the experience in front of her.

[@abeldiaz3877]

Definitely

[@brokenastartes2848]

Totally agree seeing the way she just falls into the music the lyrics and the stories they tell experiencing it all helps show that no matter the genre songs are ways of telling stories in a way to make you feel the emotions behind them and these videos show it all in a way we can all understand and feel validated

[@Iwantbrains247]

I agree. He captures the struggle with mental health perfectly. As a sufferer it really hits home.

[@johndoe-uf9pu]

At 70 years old I spend everyday and night with my wife who’s on a ventilator totally aware of everything. I see the emotions in this song in her eyes everyday. Every dr and every nurse should hear this. Thank you for playing this song

[@bonolio]

Have you seen his Sick Boi video. It is far more desperate and aggressive in tone but so powerful and raw. He is truly first and foremost a storyteller. I am sorry about your wife, I can never know your story, but my wife was diagnosed with a genetic condition 15 years ago that is slowly, day by day destroying her and inflicting horrendous pain and disability on her. Because of the way it acts, I don't know whether I will have her with me for 30 years or whether I will lose her tomorrow. Ren speaks to me in a way not many have.

[@michaelbryan5910]

i went through this with my wife. she never made it out. she was only 25. its a helpless feeling. I hope it works out for you.

[@JohnDoeRL]

hey bud you care to step off my name please

[@brand-EE]

​@@JohnDoeRL You're joking, right?

[@JohnDoeRL]

@@brand-EE Ofcourse I am. Did you notice we have the same name?

[@kmrd.mp4]

I'm so happy Ren is getting the recognition he deserves. He's such a talented, inspiring, and incredible artist! It would be awesome to see more of his songs here.

[@IronRaspberry]

Couldn’t agree more!

[@PestilencePending]

Yes please

[@0Onyx13]

Oh my god I only discovered him today and I've been listening to all his stuff the last couple hours, it's almost too much all at once, this man is something else... I've seen a comment saying "if you merged Eminem, Beethoven, and Shakespeare" and yeah, that's a good description... if pain could talk.

[@Len_M.]

He’s taken over KZbin and I’m here for it all! 🫶🏻

[@youtubernaz1scensoredbythe201]

I'm happy for Ren, but sad for those of us that now, have to share him with the rest of the world. That's o.k though. At least I got to have him all to myself for as long as I did. I'm actually surprised that it didn't happen a long, long time ago. His label put him on a shelf for too long when he was battling his demons, but you can't shelf something like this forever.😂😂❤

[@lisalindsay1410]

This man doesn’t know it but he’s saved my life. I’m a person who deals with severe depression and anxiety. I couldn’t find anything or anyone that understood me. Until ren. He is a musical genius!

[@McLeod2022]

Peace and Love to You. It's a hard walk. We are here for ja Love.

[@zolariuscookie9318]

Really proud of you. This song hit a lot harder than anything else. Truly the empath of our times

[@McLeod2022]

yep. until you've been strapped down to a cold slab on the "bad side" of a ward with locked doors... ja don't know quite how dark can get, or how bright the other side really is. There is a brighter side.

[@LadyIarConnacht]

Struggling writer here - this song brings me to tears every single time. It's not just brilliant, it's IMPORTANT for so many of us that never feel really understood. Hang in there.

[@autumnsweatt6539]

I’m so proud of you, @lisalindsay1410. It’s such a huge step making the decision to continue. I know firsthand as well how hard the struggle is. I hope you’ve also taken the step to seek professional help since then to at least find healthy coping skills.

[@AndreasLudwigPhD]

Elisabeth, you were the first to get me in contact with Ren on your lovely channel. Since then I am listening to all his songs. I am SO impressed by his talent, his ability to blend so many ideas and styles into incredible music, his poetry, his acting. But most of all his authenticity and the fact that he has something meaningful to say. BIG Thank you for this video that started it all for me! Your analysis is so precious! Greetings from a guy from Dresden, living in Sydney right now.

[@Jason-Taylor]

If you were to ask me, this should be an immediate selection for a Grammy! We haven’t seen something like this before and it’s amazing!

[@ubtrippn6202]

Agreed

[@MrBeetsGaming]

I agree and I would absolutely love to see the reactions if he were to perform it at the grammys.

[@danielc-s8056]

​@MrBeetsGaming considering what gets played at the Grammys I don't think they'd understand Ren

[@officialWWM]

Why would he want a Grammy? That’s not what he’s about. You clearly don’t get it.

[@officialWWM]

@@danielc-s8056 exactly. Unless the big machine is making money out of him, they aren’t interested! The Grammys has nothing to do with art and Ren is a true artist.

[@allengator1914]

The word isn't distortion, it's dissonance. Ren posted this comment about "Hi Ren" last December. It's very illuminating. "Up until I was 9 years old, I would intermittently hear a voice in my head that was not my own. The voice was distinctly different to mine, and always negative. It would self criticize or urge me to do things I knew to be morally wrong. The most peculiar thing about the voice was that it took no effort on my behalf to produce. My own thoughts always felt like there was a process that required effort to bring them to the forefront of my mind, this voice appeared as though it was spoken by another. The sentences felt predetermined like they had already been constructed. I remember very vividly at 9 years old, becoming very frustrated with the voice. I stood in my back yard, internally screaming at the voice to be silent again and again, and it did. In a flash there was silence, to the point where my head felt like an empty room. I wasn’t used to the quiet and that voice never returned. It almost felt lonely in my head. When I got older I had intermittent bouts with auditory hallucinations where I would hear perfect symphonies, usually at night when drifting off to sleep. They were so clear that they sounded like they were emanating from a radio in the corner of my room. I knew they weren’t there, but for some reason they never came with the feeling of fear. I also recall sitting on a bus at the age of 15, and hearing the sound of a crowded room, with about 100 voices chattering away, I was the only person apart from the driver on the bus. These experiences were always very brief, and few and far between. My last hallucination was during an intense bout of psychosis in 2015, and was my first visual hallucination. I was walking down a pavement after jumping out my mums car in a crossroads in a moment of frustration and distress with my condition. I was trying to run from myself. What appeared to be a homeless man with a dark complexion approached me, and asked me what was wrong. I explained that I had been sick most my life, and I wasn’t sure I had the strength to continue. He looked at me, and smiled and told me ‘everything is going to be okay in the end Ren.’ I had not told him my name. There was something so overpoweringly sincere about this simple message, which brought with it an overwhelming feeling of inner peace, and in a flash, he vanished. My rational brain always linked these experiences to what the doctors have told me, that there are parts of my brain compromised by the autoimmunity in my body. That the myelin sheaths surrounding the complex electrical system that conduct my thoughts were damaged and compromised, causing these lucid experiences that I knew did not exist inside the physical world. The part of me that edges away from logical and rational thought always attributed these thoughts to some kind of otherworldly intervention, that made my thoughts the battleground of some spiritual tug of war. For a long time I never really acknowledged this part of myself, for with it brought the danger and stigma of sounding like a crazy person. I decided with my latest release, to the best of my ability, to capture and express this chess match of thought."

[@Ozymandi_as]

Thanks for posting this. I love the fact that he's not afraid to write at length in expressing whatever he wants to say, because he has such a great facility with language - there's going to be a book of some kind, maybe more than one book, and a really good book at that, I just know it. Not just some ghosted biography or album of photographs, but something literary, for want of a better word, which is relatively rare for a musician. 'Hi Ren' makes me think of Shakespeare, so no pressure. I wouldn't disagree with dissonance, but I hear distortion as well, in the way he bends the note, or deliberately over-plucks his strings so the note starts to disintegrate. There are plenty of places in the song where he makes you feel that he is falling apart, or has done so in the past, so it seems quite apposite.

[@dennerjd]

Damn... I love his honesty. Being honest, especially with myself, is scary and seemingly unintuitive. Thank you for sharing this insight.

[@nomchompsky2883]

takes cajones to attempt to "correct" a top tier professional like her. lol..

[@MichaelAbramo]

@@nomchompsky2883 classic internet move

[@anthonyvalentine9685]

If you believe in angels/demons (they are the same thing) this is not far fetched. Some are stronger than others in perceiving these communications. Those like Ren have a much greater challenge due to thier sensitivity. The stronger you are the greater the opponent you are given. I applaud his expression. The first time I saw this video my expression was "Holy Shit that's Deep" Current professional can only analyze the physical aspects of this process because they can't interact with the true mental and spiritual dimensions of a person's existence. Those can only be analyzed second hand. Ren has found a way to express those dimensional interactions in a way that others can resonate with. Truly a legendary work of art. Thank you for reacting to this.

[@WeaselSandwicH]

Anyone else really hoping Ren is the next interview subject? 😍

[@Jeffapperson]

He probably would, he interacts with fans all the time...really down to earth guy

[@cas9065]

Oh, that would be beautiful!

[@shungite4720]

Actually no, no I don't. I think we know what we need to know, and more importantly felt what we need to feel with his music/performances. His popularity is based on relatability, it tells us we are all connected and as an artist that's the most important message to send, now, and more than ever.

[@smut28]

1 hundo

[@Mozaec]

Yes!

[@spamvicious]

The monologue is brilliant. One of the hardest lessons to learn with bad mental health struggles is that there is no cure. When the bad times come you have to accept it and get through it because the good times will come again.

[@miriamrodrigues4264]

as a person who takes care of another with some mental health struggles, you may not believe but Ren songs made me understand exactly what you wrote 🥰 i love him, he is a genious 😁

[@modulator7861]

This is basically an epic 1-man opera, with Ren playing ALL the characters, PLUS the orchestra, and even the audience, himself.

[@Mabbah066]

What about the Pig-man. He did all the heavy lifting. Or at least pushing

[@christinerobbins9376]

This song ripped me apart😢

[@Lynnie_14]

I watched a reaction from a classical musician. He echoed your words that #HiRen is a complete opera and should be performed on a stage. I totally agree ❤❤

[@fernando9260]

I've known Ren for about 4 years now. Seeing what he's been throught, with his diseases, semi-coma and almost losing his career due to all of it, it pleases me greatly seeing him finally getting the recognition he deserves. He's truly a music genius and the way he's open about his struggles connects a lot with me and a lot of other people also. I just gotta fuckin' love this man

[@WishMount]

say Hi Ren to Ren for me

[@TrulyNamaste]

Give him a hug for me and have one yourself x

[@lisamaggart952]

Fernando, do you know how he is doing with his treatment in Canada? He hasn't posted an update on his channel since his cavitation surgery and subsequent infection nearly 10 days ago. I'm sure I'm not the only fan who is concerned. Thanks.

[@crissargent5777]

please tell ren...thank you. thank you for putting my unspoken feelings into words. so many have hurt and struggled as i have. he/i/we are not alone. and we are one in strength. we will rise, we will rise and celebrate, to live life as we do our best to survive

[@AmyLDCCXK]

I lost my daughter -- we all lost our sweet, talented young woman, sister, friend, January 26, 2023. I wish she could have found and listened to "Hi, Ren." I wish she would have believed she was not alone, and that there is hope. I believe Ren's words would have spoken to her in a way mine could not because one must live with these conditions to truly understand them. I broke when my daughter lost her struggle with her "Bad Ren." I cried and cried while listening to this. She was unique -- started showing creative talent when she was 3 years old. But when she was 7, she first mentioned her "heart was half black." I remember the exact moment, the exact place she stood, the tone of her voice. Her teachers told me she was different, but I believed her different was beautiful. She sought therapy when she was 20. Too little too late? Did they not understand? Could they not help? I loved everything about her, and told her so often, she needed more than my words. In the months before she took her life, I would hug her, but she felt limp. We lost her when she was only 25. I am so, so, so sorry you suffered my beautiful girl. I miss you every moment of every day. May you know peace now. Elizabeth Charais, aka Jett, forever 25.

[@rockarola55]

Fare well, Jett. I recently lost a very good friend to mental illness, I can't imagine how it must be to lose a daughter. I'm struggling with words right now, as I am not only communicating in my third language, but I am also trying to make sense of the senseless. You are not alone, Jett was not alone and I am not alone, no matter how much it may feel so...stay strong.

[@romeowandrainbow1040]

May Jett know peace now. Maybe her heart was too bright, not half black. Sometimes the those with the most light feel the darkness most intensely. I’m so sorry for your loss. 🤍

[@jend878]

So sorry for your loss of beautiful Jett

[@JosjeVervoortxx]

❤❤❤❤

[@maegantoth4751]

Rest in greatness Jet. I am sorry that you have to deal with everything through all that has come your way. ❤

[@andrewstacey4868]

This could only be possible without record companies. It’s exactly what he feels and how he wants it said. Executives would not understand the art

[@bryan_garrick_little]

So true !

[@MUFCVita]

This is the most underrated comment on the internet. I would follow you in battle sir! 🫡

[@rawgage7]

Elizabeth... I'm sitting here with tears streaming down cheeks as I type these words. I'm a 48 year old Marine that sees this struggle every day in my fellow Marines and always try to speak some words of encouragement on how to dance with your inner demons through the battle field of life. Ren embodies this battle that only the greatest warriors soldier through. God bless you and him for coming together for this wonderful message, and know I've sent it to my entire battalion who will forward it on to all their loved ones. Much respect, Semper Fi... Live free... or die.

[@zed4225]

As a fellow human, thankyou for your service, and enduring the horrors of war for your country. It can feel like a thankless endeavour I'm sure, not enough care is taken of our VET's, worldwide (I'm originally from UK and now an Australian). Peace, love and appreciation. Just wish politicians/big business could fight their own manufactured wars.

[@Jaish007]

Semper Fi, my friend.

[@ajrodriguez2395]

Semper FI my dude. Thanks for speaking for us.

[@christopherreed1953]

This hit hard. Not a marine. But an army grunt. The ending monolog hit heavy. But it loved it. Semper fi brother

[@darknevangelist]

yut

[@backcountryme]

I just found REN. And as a47 year old man that has struggled to remain outwardly strong, while screaming in pain inside, I completely relate to this song. Thanks for covering it, and thank you ren for making it.

[@piercingsbyjj]

I recognize the pain you carry my friend. I can't help with the load, but know I'm walking right beside you while carrying my own. You are not alone.

[@spaceman9599]

Right there with you mate, at 53.

[@braca977]

45... and pretty fucked up with many life's obstacles. I'm obsessed with Ren since i heard this song. Please check out his song SUIC!DE.......another masterpiece !!!!!

[@BigHomieSteveTheMetalHead]

I'm soo happy to see you finally check this masterpiece out!!! This song has really had an impact on me and it's amazing to see soo many people connecting with it. I really hope you do "Jenny/Screech/Violet's Tale", I heard that song for the first time 2 weeks ago and I was even more blown away. This kid is the most creative artist I've ever heard, he needs to be promoted EVERYWHERE!! 🤘🤘🤙🤙

[@eatrawskin]

Violet's tale is a grim story, it's the song that made me dig deep into this guy as I'd only heard one album before that. I fully admit to being a simp for this guy's art.

[@IronRaspberry]

I think the trilogy should come with a trigger warning though, especially for Violet’s Tale.

[@sonnysome3201]

This fella right here is something I think a lot of us has been waiting for.

[@BrandonWestfall]

@@IronRaspberry lmfao, you people want trigger warnings for everything.

[@SteveWhipp]

@@IronRaspberry Yeah, you're not wrong. It's pretty damn dark.

[@amurphy44]

I’ve watched about 50 of these reaction videos and I think this is the best I’ve heard. It was the most interesting, educational and considered one. I applaud you. 👏🏾👏🏾🙌🏾🔥

[@jamestalkington6306]

You know an artist is genre-defying and impactful when metal, hip hop, and eclectic reaction channels ALL are being requested to cover him.

[@Haffelpaff]

Yeah, right? And everyone has identical reactions, from a slight "wtf?" in the beginning to surprise of the concept and his delivery and everyone understands why the beginning made so much sense in the end, and after his speech everyone is kinda speechless battling with tears. To me Ren has written in such deep honesty the words came directly from his soul, and every soul immediately responds and helps us feel that we are all connected, but stuck in our heads feeling separated and different from each other while craving to be loved just for being ourself and also craving to love other humans, but we focus on superstitious bullshit and everyone feels more lonely because even our social networks are full of dishonesty and greed for money. I love the line of sick boi, asking himself:"don't you wanna be a rich boy?" and Rena answer is "FUCK NO!", and he means it, because money is worth shit, just as almost everything it can buy. Nothing you can buy gives you the real happiness of loving and being loved. We all can spend as much love as we want, and the more you spread love, the more you get of it. So why running after money and selling your soul when it's within that soul what you need to be happier than Bezos and Musk together.

[@neilandfi]

He has his own genre, which someone else aptly named "Bardcore" I thunk that's perfect.

[@Ramonnnn]

Amen

[@mickparker5656]

@@neilandfihe really is

[@StLProgressive]

This song hit me like a ton of bricks because I’ve been chronically ill for almost 20 years now, almost half my life too. I had cancer, then became disabled due to severe chronic pain in 2006. I know what it’s like to spend days, weeks, in bed, missing out on pretty much everything. It destroyed my life. For me the internal struggle was is it worth it to fight on. There were a couple of times that the answer was no, so that line ‘And I go by many names also, some people know me as hope. Some people know me as the voice that you hear when you loosen the noose on the rope’ stunned me. It’s the best line in the entire song, IMO. He’s created a piece of performance art that’s so important, so powerful. He’s a bard. Music is so powerful. It’s literally saved my life at times, given me that hope.

[@lukegoffkat]

Thank you for that. I have the same situation. Both of us deal with long term depression (Natural with chronic pain) and I have Ren's bad side inside me as well, always taunting me and telling me I'm worthless, while my good side knows I can play 13 instruments and every style of music out there. Can compete with some of the best musicians in the world, but I'm not good enough at the end of the day. We know our light side is right, but it gets hard to ignore the other person inside.

[@anakein]

I hope people like us will one day win. I hope there's a good God out there too, that can do more than just suffer, a powerful, warrior good God.

[@GrumpyGenXGramps]

Me too! I've had 31 year untreated Lyme Disease that WRECKED my body and MIND. As a 50 yr old man never into rap or hip hop 5his STUNN3D me and captivated me that I rewatched it at least 10 times! Kid is a genius. The chills, goosebumps and even the tear he brought to this angry, grizzled old before my time man, says it all.

[@MsRedAllert]

Sending hugs to you. ❤️ We got this!

[@Frustratedfool]

“I realised there were no real winners and no real losers in psychological warfare, only victims, and students “. Ren. That punches me in my everywhere, every time.

[@kevinspalding3072]

28:26 Elizabeth: "What an incredible gift to give people" That comment, right there, lanced me right through my heart! It's hard to think of a such an intense personal struggle as anything like an authentic gift to give, but if you do reach that point then you've reached such an important milestone in terms of wisdom.

[@guzzy620]

I wish art like this didn’t require so much pain.

[@manuelcasares7270]

In a way I think it's pain who gives value to it

[@lilaschwarz6014]

Yes!

[@elyootafaridzadeh1164]

and not only the pain of artist but the pain of those who relate as well

[@tracyavent-costanza346]

and then there is the associated question, where people in such pain DO NOT create great art. I have no idea how to answer either one.

[@Kokuswolf]

Everyone needs to loose something to appreciate what they have. Someone who never lost has never won. Art is there, as it emphasizes both. And only those who regognize the pain, understands the beauty. We couldn't understand beauty, if we never felt pain.

[@Athraxes]

What baffles me is that he can do it all.... He can sing, rap, play instruments, write lyrics and is an amazing storyteller. He is so damn creative.

[@danielf3623]

@Dj O.B Fiona Apple and Trent Reznor come to mind as well. Amazing lyricist, emotional vocal performance, implacable genre, multi-talented instrumentalist, self-produced.

[@ECCENTRICERIC69]

@Dj O.B It has been said by many others and I agree that Prince is the artist who Ren reminds them of regarding pure musical talent and diversity. If you watch Ren's live busking performance with Chinchilla singing Sexual Healing you can hear the Prince like falsetto vocals. Also, their mash up version of One Dance/Drunk in love is off the charts good in front of a crowd of about 20 people in the early evening!

[@dalemcdermott9840]

It’s annoying isn’t it!? Took me 3 attempts to put my shirt on the right way this morning!

[@sitrix6185]

And sadly, we can not separate the creative from the beast. We only try to tame the beast as much as possible.

[@Kipperbob]

You're going to absolutely love Ren when you find out that this is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to the artistic talent this young man possesses,

[@adamcarey2818]

This was incredible and I wouldn’t have found it if I didn’t follow your channel - thanks for the review 🙏🏻

[@jurrienvanrooy7469]

As someone who’s struggled with mental disorder and addiction for half my life, this song feels like recognition. I have been clean and happy since 2014, but it leaves a mark on your soul.

[@jamesmccormick875]

Same. I’ve dealt with both and have been sober since 2014. I’m also a musician and artist. I’ve suffered from server depression for over 30 years. Hope lives in all of us. It took me a long time to realize I had to forgive everyone that hurt me, but most of all I had to forgive myself for allowing people to hurt me and for sabotaging myself. Once I realized that it’s me that controls my life and how I react to others. God bless you, keep faith and hope alive.

[@kevinyountrevzupak8686]

Life just sucks sometimes...then it wont...labels, searches, reasons, excuses...not needed when you just know it's always just gonna flip flop

[@nathandts3401]

Can I ask what the addiction was? I've got some heavy mental health issues and I use a lot of illicit drugs, but I feel I use them in a medicinal way; got off my antidepressants with speed to mitigate withdrawal. I used benzos to avoid being in my head when events have happened that caused panic attack flare ups. Cocaine has helped me with the alcohol/depression combo.

[@BigHomieSteveTheMetalHead]

I've lived with an autoimmune illness called Systemic Scleroderma since I was 17yo, and I've struggled with depression and anxiety as well because of it and other life circumstances. That's why I connect with this song soo much, it's very relatable to just about everybody who has struggled in life. This isn't just a song, this song is one of the best pieces of art I've ever seen and it cuts right down to the soul!!

[@davidsmith6976]

bECAUSE IT COMES FROM A HUMAN ,NOT AN"EXPERT" someone ,who has [and still does ] feel it ,not just know about it ,he is such a cool guy ,not bitter,and so versatile,too. heres to giving all those without a voice ,the strength ,and self belief ,PEACE to you .

[@verukaward]

I think that’s what it hits extra hard for me. I also have an autoimmune disorder that my doctor and insurance still give very little attention to and instead encourage psychiatric “help” and medication that has detrimental effects on my brain and body. Working to get better help, but it’s so discouraging to feel like your body and brain have turned on you, and you know there’s real help, but you can’t get it.

[@davidsmith6976]

@@verukaward sO MANY PEOPLE are not getting the treatment they need government cuts ,and outdated ideas[meds,when other therapies would be a better long term solution ,depression,has sky rocketed over the past decade and more ,yet they never change their approach to it ,same with so many other conditions ,there are more modern,effective treatments ,which arent even offerred ,seems ,anything to do with the mind ,is taboo,THATS why REN ,has opened up discussion about these things ,which is vital.

[@TanisAnnicchiarico]

As somebody who has attempted to commit suicide *multiple* times in my life, the "You've got to kill you if you want to kill me" made me just breakdown in tears, it's so raw and real and I relate so fucking hard man; this song is tragically beautiful.

[@brettmalin8921]

May you always find a reason to stand up and shout not today.

[@MelaniePhoenix]

Please stay here with us.

[@shawnsteen8442]

Agreed. I was not prepared for this song when I first heard it and that part really got me. I'm grateful that you're here to share this. Thank you.

[@cazza09]

I was the same when I noticed that line, realised where that thought had been coming from. Glad you're still here though. 🤘 We've all got each others backs in this fight 🤘

[@pocketlama]

I hear you, brother. I made some noises during this that I didn't expect, and looking back to them, I see they were equally horror, pain, recognition, and surprisingly, relief and gentle peace. This song hits me right where I live, coming from a lifetime of fighting my darkness. Im having a growing realization that it ISN'T a fight! Fighting doesn't work. It's a dance, like he says. Two sides of the coin. It isn't a good side and a bad side. It's just me. It's all me. My wife showed this to me through her love. She has dementia now and lives in an adult family home. From the start, she loved me. She loved ME, whole and unadorned, and only last night did I finally begin to understand why. She didn't love me in spite of my darkness and chaos. She didn't love the "good" bits. She loved me, comlete and whole. It's been 17 years of me trying to be worthy of that incredible love, and now I see that I have been worthy all along. At my most broken, I'm worthy. All my suffering, all my darkness, all my struggles to exist in society, all my awkwardness, all my complaining, all my everything, every bit of it is me. Just like the wonder I felt earlier this morning when I was standing by the bird feeders out back and a little black and white bird flew down and perched on a feeder and stared at me before flying away. Then he came back and perched sideways on a sunflower. The the nearby branch of the lilac tree. Each time staring at me intently as I spoke softly to it, praising its beauty and courage and grace. That's me too. All of it is me. What is the dance he speaks of? How will I find a way to dance? I really don't know, and I'm really looking forward to finding my way to it. I have hope I didn't have yesterday. My friend, I wish you all the wonder and joy and peace I wish for myself. May your last attempt truly be the last. Good fortune, my friend.

[@cutslikeakris26]

This was the most raw and real I’ve seen you and I thank you for being so open. This song is very important and Ren has changed lives.

[@Jacob_Junge]

_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_ These lyrics give me chills every time I hear them!

[@AndyUK-Corrival]

Same here, that part really affects me physically. I’ve watched it many times too but still the same.

[@SilentBob731]

I was already blown away by this point, but that crescendo was a whole 'nother level. 🤘

[@Qalibrated]

My favorite part for sure! Although, i love the whole song. Artistic, inspiring, emotional, theatrical, vulnerable. Just wonderful music and a nice change of pace from what you're used to hearing.

[@bhudzietz333]

@@AndyUK-Corrival Same, I can't even count how many times I've listened to this song and reactions I've watched and that part brings me to tears every time.

[@eatrawskin]

Just reading this gives me chills, I can hear it.

[@williams.1130]

My dad actually introduced me to this song. And in 32 years this is only the 3rd time I've ever seen him compliment any music made after 1980. I'm still baffled

[@Hefnandi]

What are the others two ?

[@paulm4652]

@@Hefnandi great question!

[@MsRedbelly]

William that is truly beautiful. Reading comments on RENs videos I can see his appeal is massive & diverse…I think he’s a lightworker & heals all sorts of things with his music.

[@wtasonwatson4971]

This is both awesome and understandable😃

[@mikeparker7631]

Might want to check your stash...dad's gotten into it.

[@brooklyngolden9464]

At 38 years old having struggled massively with suicide since the age of around 13, this song resonated with me in ways I can’t bring to words. With this song he took the literal rope from my literal neck and saved my life. I am forever grateful to him for sharing his story.

[@theTaxIsTheft]

Stay strong

[@SouthernPioneer1965]

Each and every life is worth saving . ❤

[@TheBH86]

I hear you Brook.. I know what the barrel of a gun tastes like.. in that moment, I knew that wasn't the way.. I've struggled with the thought ever since, but I fight it continuously. This song, puts it into words (Art really) thay I can't do, but I'm glad he was able to speak for me, and people like us.

[@jimbayler4277]

@@theTaxIsTheft : I second that !

[@codytheoneandonly337]

I’m here with you buddy.

[@sophiehobley828]

It really increased my emotions at the line "ive spent half my life jll" by how much that said to you. In one year ive spent half my life ill. If i live to 60 ill have spent over 2/3rds of my life ill. Ive been in some dark places too. And i loved his line "ive stood in the flames that cremated my brain and i didnt ONCE FLINCH OR SHAKE" coz it makes me feel so much stronger and more powerful....like maybe even if i'm physically stood in the hottest parts of the fire i can still be strong. Its a beautiful song and this is beautiful commentary that also speaks to me so much and has really increased my enjoyment of this video and i watch your video often ❤

[@davedavem]

Oh my god when he finally chooses to open his lungs it's so powerful. Full body goosebumps. This is one of the most beautiful songs I've ever heard.

[@JDFinsFan]

Without you, I would’ve never found this. Thank you. He’s a genius.

[@TheCharismaticVoice]

You're welcome! Indeed, he is a genius! ❤️

[@bobbycollins6783]

There are many channels that have picked up on Ren now. Ones I've never even heard of before. So he's done a lot for other reaction channel's too. It's interesting to see how they react & everyone I've seen have the same sort of reaction. Not just this one but all his music. If Ren doesn't move you then you must be dead inside.

[@hobbsmakescomics]

I can't hear the line "I have stood in the flames that cremated my brain and didn't once flinch or shake." without tearing up. I have heard this song literally hundreds of times at this point and it ALWAYS gets me.

[@Johnnylowfive]

Followed by "So cower at the man I've become" hit me in an emotional place I can't access on my own. It makes me lose control in such a cathartic way. I got sober 16 years ago and had undiagnosed clinical depression, anxiety, ADHD and only recently realized I also suffer from childhood PTSD. The "other" voice is my father and I've heard and fought it as long as I can recall. I used to think some people are just broken and I was one of them. Turns out I'm actually a "hyper sensitive empath" and that's why the world has always felt "wrong" to me. Growing up "Irish Catholic" in Brooklyn (with the requisite Cop father, grandfather's and uncles) I was taught that men don't cry or feel, it's a weakness and something women and babies do. It was incompatible with who I am and I became very aggressive and competitive and sports became my "outlet" and once I was ineligible academically spring of my sophomore year I dropped out of college and I found alcohol! I thought I had found the cure to my "disease" and quickly lost control of my life. My father passed in 2007 and I got sober and clean and diagnosed with several of my mental illnesses about 8 months later. I still struggle with the lack of closure and the possible reconciliation that could have followed, I feel robbed. But my wife and son have never seen me anything other than sober and I am able to at least find a type of closure in being the father I wish I had had. Sorry for the long reply "stranger", this song just makes my emotional and these feelings just come out. Thank you if you read this.

[@hobbsmakescomics]

read it. I'm rambling typer as well lol... usually- thanks for sharing, @@Johnnylowfive

[@Johnnylowfive]

@@hobbsmakescomics Thank you for listening. Truly appreciate it.

[@nuttygirl83]

I have been there. Or similar instances. Some of it for me was my dad, some my ex husband. That I was married to for 17 years. Undiagnosed adhd and feelings of inferiority because of it. The struggles with intelligence while simultaneously having such difficulty with my working memory and processing speed. Anxiety, depression, some of what would be termed chronic childhood ptsd and similar chronic from my marriage. Getting out of that and finally able to feel something beyond my own pain. Finally able to recognize what might be feelings of real love in myself. Just. I have my children but have never had a healthy romantic partnership. Maybe one day. I am much healthier now. But I remember those feelings and still experience them some. Thought I don't think my struggles have been as hard as Ren's, this pain speaks to me.@@Johnnylowfive

[@MUFCVita]

@@Johnnylowfive❤ your not alone brother

[@stonecrafter01]

A fantastic analysis. I love how incredibly creatively thought out this is. From the bending notes and the subtle two voices in the beginning falsetto to the ending falsetto part after the battle when now the notes are spot on thee voices are together and it continues for longer. Beautifully done.

[@danieljohnston9341]

I...My face leaked. I don't know if it was you or Ren (TY for introducing me to Ren) but this touched my soul. Thank You Elizabeth. TY Ren!

[@Artzilla_219]

Never in my life would I have listened to this song if not for this channel. I listen to metal and rock genres, and as a musician I do appreciate other genres most simply are not my thing. This song is brilliant and I'm glad you've covered it.

[@KenTheSteak]

Ren got no genres.

[@mountainhobbit1971]

I have listened to this song many times and every time I listen, I love the part towards the end where he just belts it out with his singing voice...it feels like a relief to his inner pain and that he has risen above some of that deep darkness he experienced.

[@Mac_04]

Same here. The part where he stands and sings about hope gives me shivers and makes me tear up …

[@mountainhobbit1971]

@@Mac_04 exactly! so cool.

[@lorriest5266]

Thanks!

[@lorriest5266]

I LOVED Hi Ren. This song/video brought the mental struggle to life. I am at a loss for words. WOW, is about all I can come up with. Seriously, WOW!!!. Thank you!!!!!!

[@tomtomthebear]

The tale of Jenny and screech is a journey..!! Nobody in modern music tells a story like ren

[@C-Sigg_999]

he's a modern day bard / minstrel / story teller. just keep digging deeper into his work and you'll find it not only highly fascinating but his artistic vision and execution is absolutely amazing and truly moving & captivating. he's a special talent & artist.

[@pepeleperth]

Absolutely, the medieval storytelling start is so fire. You can imagine someone back then talking of conquests of war and the spoils. Its truly a unique modern day version

[@MrPariahComplex]

That's exactly how I describe him to people, modern day bard. Somehow stumbled on Money Game a while back been following and showing him yo people. I introduced my father to Ren, he's been playing folk/blues for over 40 years and isn't a fan of rap (granted Ren isn't exclusively that, he's a bit of everything) but I don't think I've ever heard him talk about and compliment an artist more

[@Asperibra]

Ren might be the single most talented musician i've encountered. from his storytelling to his vocals, i don't ever remember being this enamored by an artist ever

[@hitman9198]

I've personally seen lots of Artists that have this amount of talent. For example one artist is NF. People love to hate him but he is definitely an amazing artist. Dax , Tom Macdonald and Ryan Upchurch are all amazing too. Talent wise Kim Dracula is insanely talented. Ren is definitely in the S tier for me

[@Asperibra]

@@hitman9198 good shot, these are all great artists as well. One thing that gets me with Ren is he can play bass/guitar/piano/drums/cello, does all his own mixing, producing, instrumentals and beatboxing, and sings like a male Adele

[@hitman9198]

@Asperi everyone I named off is independent except NF. So they all do their own mixing and production as well. And that's why I brought up Kim Dracula. He plays alot of instruments as well. And definitely thinks outside the box. Have you ever heard of the band Sleep Token? That band is full of master musicians. But I get what you're saying about Ren and agree. To be able to play that many instruments is crazy. I graduated with a guy that was good at singing and could play the piano, cello, violin, guitar, bass, drums, and trombone. He picked them all up insanely fast but didn't choose music as a career

[@seandan7873]

Well said!

[@wizardflaps]

@@hitman9198 "I graduated with a guy that was good at singing and could play the piano, cello, violin, guitar, bass, drums, and trombone. He picked them all up insanely fast but didn't choose music as a career" Talent in defined areas needn't dictate your chosen vocation. A reverse Icarus complex (or a variant of Daedalus complex) is only really perceived as a loss from the outside. A maestro might be happier within themselves working as a dishwasher.

[@snoopied3253]

Thank you. This is the first video of yours I've seen, as I'm not an avid music lover. I was recommended this because "Hi Ren" is one of the videos I return to in my darker hours. Mine isn't a story to tell here, or possibly anywhere, but know that you've seen the benefits that I have. The swelling of emotion, the souring of notes and the clear truth behind the lyrics are why it makes me happy. Thank you again for noticing.

[@ashbii7632]

Oh my gosh!! I am so excited for this. You should for sure check out his live recording of Chalk outlines with Chinchilla. It is a GREAT showcase of his singing abilities. And I would LOVE to hear your analysis of it.

[@stumeat77]

I think Chalk Outlines definitely shows off his singing chops well and would be perfect for Elizabeth to experience.

[@tonyjames9016]

Yes! Chalk Outlines! Next level ability and beauty beyond words.

[@arc6017]

Yes! Definitely Chalk Outlines live!

[@richarddancer-w8c]

This is a double treat for me. I've lost track of how many reaction videos I've seen regarding this song because I love it and its meaning so much. But I also love watching YOU react to music videos, not only because you are so knowledgeable but because you get into a performance like a child with a new toy and it's infectious.

[@0Onyx13]

I isolate myself a lot from everything on media because there's so much stuff I don't care about, but right now I'm really mad that it took me so long to find this... thank you to everyone who told her to react to it, you made me discover it as well, and I've never heard anything so painfully gnawing at me, I can't even begin to describe what it makes me feel cause it's so many things, and they're so deep, and so raw, it's just... my god. Thank you people.

[@0Onyx13]

It's been 5 days and I've watched almost everything on his channel, and about 50 reactions, first all to this, then to the Trilogy (my god, Shakespeare's got nothing on him!), then Chalk Outlines, and eventually just everything. I am completely obsessed with his messages, his voice, his words, his playing skills, his acting, the way in a 3 minute video he manages to make me care so much about a fictional character... I am glad he is finally getting the right help, even though it's a hard and long process. And I'm glad that he's spreading on youtube like a wildfire, because the industry did him dirty enough, and I really hope we as people can make him soar every statistic, that he will reach an insane level of fame without any label sucking off his profits and telling him what to do.

[@phillip.clarke]

I’ve watched Hi Ren about 10 times now, and it’s such a pleasure watching you experience it for the first time. The face that you pick it up and understand it so quickly is testament to your level of skill. Thanks for this reaction video x

[@jarrodsplace]

This is totally live recorded.. Astounding. I can’t listen to it without welling up. REN has a story to tell and I can’t wait to hear more of it.

[@HouseholdDog]

It's incredible.

[@thatguy_5240]

This is one I've been waiting for from you, Elizabeth! Such a talented individual that deserves all the recognition he's getting

[@adamwilliams1253]

i am shit at music, no idea what you are talking about half the time but your engagement, your enthusiasm and your clear and genuine love and respect for the genre is fab and keeps me coming back when i need a boost, that's it, just thought it worth saying out loud.

[@Jon-dt8wm]

I have listened to this song a million times before seeing your video. You just said everything better on how I talk about this song. Thank you. Too many ads

[@TheGstx]

I can’t experience this song again for the first time. So I come and watch people’s reaction videos, just to see the raw emotion and feelings Ren brings out in people!

[@TheNordicharps]

Many of us do. Welcome to the Ren Brigade

[@terrywhite4648]

Perfect explanation

[@Johnnylowfive]

Hi friend. Now I don't feel creepy. This song broke me down and I love seeing others experience it.

[@romeowandrainbow1040]

Not creepy at all, it’s a bonding experience and there is no where near enough human bonding going on these days

[@jolandafrijlink6103]

Guilty😬

[@davedavem]

When the "good" Ren rise to react to "bad" Ren's provocation, and says "I am a genius". His voice starts to crack and he starts to sound like his other self. They merge more and more. So amazing

[@tightknotsfishing9334]

Brilliant!

[@sarah-wv4bh]

I cry starting then lol

[@suddenswarm5944]

I keep flipping between thinking it's him telling himself he's worth the praise he gets, but on the flip side its just another swing of the pendulum

[@tjh4115]

It's genius. Absolutely.

[@katarina6432]

Especially on the guitar. Right up to the point where both sides of the instrumental "dance" together at the end

[@patrickmccollum5002]

I've watched this video probably 20x in the last 4 days. It's one of the most raw, and amazing performances I think I have ever seen. Genius, when you consider it was live, single take. The irony is that while he is blowing up around the planet, he is in Canada right now in the middle of a 6 month intensive treatment for the damage that Lime disease created in his body and his brain. This is next level talent and art.

[@Gainn]

The song is incredible, but no idea why people keep saying 'one take'. It's pretty clear it's not just from the camera cuts that would be impossible if it was. The vocal is made up from at least 3 different studio takes - some of the cuts are obvious, others not.

[@ericdixon7412]

@@Gainn yeah ren commented himself it was 3 preformances ..he has commented on about 40 reaction vids so far

[@thebathuman]

@@Gainn You can also see that sometimes the vocal performance from one take is dubbed over a different video take as the vocal delivery doesn't always sync to his lips.

[@ryang9113]

​@@thebathuman and same with the guitar

[@laurawillits176]

Wow, i felt like it was one take, then i thought, nah, nobody could handle that. But it really was one take? Dear gods

[@chasingaimie]

I literally came across Ren yesterday here, I was drawn in with seconds just gobsmacked with emotion. Brilliant artist ❤ anyone who suffers from mental illness is drawn it’s relatable and has pure raw impact. I struggle everyday and it’s 24/7 with myself. Love your channel 🎉

[@sympotaz2960]

If you think this is a thetrical masterpiece you should listen to The Tale of Jenny and Screech (Triolgy: Jenny, Screech & Violets tales). It is no joke a breath taking performance with the best strory telling any artist can create! And if you are looking for a more emotionally evoking song, you should listen to Ren X Chinchilla: Chalk Outlines. It is also one of many masterpieces Ren has created... So far!

[@arc6017]

The trioligy is great, but I think for next she should react Chalk Outlines to really capture is singing voice first!

[@cas9065]

The trilogy is tough in its topic, but so important. It does need a trigger warning though.

[@AnthonyLauder]

@@cas9065 the trilogy confronts how hard life can be, and life does not need trigger warnings.

[@aditsu]

Just want to add: Chalk Outlines *(live)* The live version is far better than the studio one.

[@arc6017]

@@aditsu yes, the live version of Chalk Outlines for sure!

[@OJB42]

This is why I watch reaction videos: to find new, interesting stuff that I would never discover otherwise. This is a really remarkable song. It seems so authentic.

[@terraelizabeth7191]

I found him from a Lyme disease group I’m on on Facebook. Im 17 and was misdiagnosed MAMY times for 3 years. Because of it I deal with auditory hallucinations and depression plus all the physical and neurological symptoms Lyme disease has. It’s taken so much from me that I will grieve forever. I will never get to be a public school student and have to watch my class graduate without me.. it’s taken friendships away and opportunities.. and it really is a difficult journey to be on. I’m so happy he makes music that I can relate and connect to. He is an inspiration and the world NEEDS his music!! 💚

[@xANGRYSHOCK]

Woahh I need a link for this group because I too am CURRENTLY going through this 😩

[@jonny555ive]

​@@xANGRYSHOCK I hope you find the help you need.... Hang in there, it will get better..... Some day. Much love, ~Jonny5🥁

[@lisabell2395]

Best wishes to you Terra Elizabeth ❤

[@terraelizabeth7191]

@@stiksandstones thank you so much! 🙏❤️

[@terraelizabeth7191]

@@xANGRYSHOCK the group is called Lyme Disease Support and Wellness! hope you are doing okay! 💚

[@andrewblakley2336]

I usually listen for your vocal insight but as someone who has struggled myself I really enjoyed/appreciated the care with which you talked about mental health. ❤

[@DjTiesticles]

Can't believe I only discovered Ren in December 2022. Makes you wonder what other talented artist we're all missing out on

[@DigitalJeremy]

Exactly! There is sooo much wonderful talent out there...Ren is certainly among them.

[@TiesSaalmink]

@@DigitalJeremy Do you have any sugestions? I recommend Navarone and their album Oscillation.

[@muffindealer9576]

@@TiesSaalmink I think Ronnie and Falling in Reverse are amazing, the sheer variety in their music, and everything so beautiful in it's own way. If you like slower stuff I'd start with Carry on and their Coming Home album as well as their two reimaginings of their old songs The drug in me is reimagined (The drug in me is you redone) and I'm not a vampire revamped (I'm not a vampire) If you like more hard hitting music I would suggest Popular Monster, Watch the world burn and "The trilogy" (Losing my mind, Losing my life and Drugs), as well as Zombified and Voices in my head.

[@wes_ley177]

i absolutely love discovering new bands and falling into them

[@conphluter]

I agree 100%, I just happened upon Ren on Saturday, I can't stop listening to him. All of his other stuff is great as well. About a month ago I watched a reaction video that popped up for a band named Sleep Token for a song called 'The Summoning'. I'm completely hooked on Sleep Token now, they are amazing!!!

[@azrael666ethereal]

There is no lip-syncing. He's basically performing the track live in the video. It's astounding art.

[@sean2549]

Ya some one said this was like the 5th take it's incredible though.

[@azrael666ethereal]

@@sean2549 It truly is. Amazing when you think about it.

[@anakein]

Azrael is the angel of death, isn't it? 666 is Satan. What's up with ethereal in there?

[@josoffat7649]

Dude is a genius, a modern renaissance man.

[@bretthansen3739]

@@anakein 666 is associated with "the beast". I believe my former church taught that it referred to the anti-christ, not Satan, but it's definitely something bad and Christian-themed. I'm not sure it's the sort of thing all churches agree on.

[@ACMommy26]

I discovered Ren two days ago and I am completely obsessed with him...never ever has an artist touched me so deeply!! As someone who also suffers from mental illness I feel this is my soul!!

[@rileyrupert5231]

I'm right there with yiu! Just found this and I went through all the therapist and psychiatrist shit, ptsd and bipolar 2. All the kills, all the problems from the pills. Then figuring it out and finding my way out. It's amazing 🙏

[@seancallaway5204]

I've never heard of Ren and I almost skipped this video. As a combat Veteran struggling with PTSD-induced depression, this song really resonated with me. It had me in tears by the end. Thank you so much for sharing this. This song now joins Tool's "Invincible" in songs I share with fellow Vets.

[@Krullmatic]

Thanks for turning me on to this Elizabeth! I've struggled with mental health and addiction my whole life since I was 12. I'm 53 now, and have been clean for 2 years now. I live in sober living currently. Ren describes perfectly the war that goes on in my mind sometimes. I haven't had a song blow me away like this in a long long time. Just remember, there is hope out there! For me, I had to want it bad enough to make that change. I can say I like myself today, but not love myself. I'm finally getting comfortable in my own skin. Thanks once again, and God Bless!🙏❤️❤️🙏

[@klassenw]

Oh my. Oh my oh my. There I was trying to make waffles for supper for my kids and I’m weeping! A middle aged man standing in his kitchen trying to hide his tears so his kids wouldn’t ask questions he still feels compelled to evade…from them. Weeping over the power of this song and his performance, and reliving my own darkness. And the catharsis of watching Elizabeth so aptly echo my own reaction with words I wouldn’t be able to come up with. Truly this is art, from someone I’d never heard of before. My new favourite video and reaction on this channel. (Sorry Will Ramos). 🙏 Peace and blessings.

[@crosswise6971]

Apart from making waffles this is what happened to me (and still happens everytime I watch the video or any of the thousand reactions to this)

[@brooklyngolden9464]

I truly and genuinely hope you don’t hide your emotions on this song or especially the song itself from your kids. They do and will continue to go through things you’ll never have any idea of and something like sharing your experience and emotions around this topic/song could save their lives someday. Real men cry. I’m a mom, but real men do cry and have emotions.

[@Vahlsten]

Man, nothing is more healing than childrens innocense and simplicity and they'll propably come up some simple and cute solution! Share it, if for nothing else, just to teach them that it's fine to share fears and what ever feelings! Bottling up emotions only creates timebombs!

[@DavidSmith-cc5hk]

My son has been struggling with his emotions and has started engaging in negative self talk. I sat down with him and listened to this song and we discussed his feelings as well as my own. An incredibly good conversation came from it. BTW, I'm a 48 year old father of six and I fucking UGLY CRIED the first time I saw this masterpiece.

[@stpfs9281]

@@DavidSmith-cc5hk Well spotted, good caring.

[@douglasdortz]

FINALLY, FINALLY, FINALLY! My favorite reactionist reacts to my new favorite artist! As usual, your insight has been fascinating! I think you would love Chalk Outlines! The vocals are, I think, amazing! I can’t wait to see your reaction to it! Ren is a high talent; I hope you enjoy him as much as I do! He has so much depth and width in him. It’s crazy! Thank you!

[@TheCharismaticVoice]

More to come!

[@hermajestysminstrelcycle8207]

I am SO with you on both counts: Ren's the first new artist I've seriously gotten into in awhile, and Chalk Outlines is truly amazing. So is the fact his strongest songs are shot in one take.

[@miggy051]

@@TheCharismaticVoice Please, do a reaction video for Chalk Outlines Featuring Chinchilla. It is another cinematic and musical masterpiece played live in one take. Cheers and thank you for your sublime work.

[@newt2010]

I've never heard this song before. Such a powerful song. Had me tears at times. Great analysis as always Elizabeth. Been watching you for a long time, and you always do such a great job. Cheers

[@stevengeller829]

I gather your slate of music to check out is massively long. Thank you for checking out Hi Ren. You always take the time to go into every aspect of the piece in as many ways as you possibly can. I truly appreciated how you approached your reaction and your own feelings as you went through it. There are so many of his songs that are so good and hard hitting or fun, or full of surprises every single time. While I do hope you find the time to explore his back catalog on your channel, I hope even more you find the time to do so in general. In one song, Ren says he goes for it , so to speak, with every single song and he really really does. Some will tear a person to pieces watching and listening. Others will bring joy and others are just for entertainment on it's own. Mostly, I hope that Ren gets better. I hope the love and support from everyone finding him, in no small part to reactions like yours, puts him in a much better place mentally and financial support finds him through channels to help him physically as he is finally being treated for his Lymes disease after being misdiagnosed for so long. In his song Patience, he says he'll take everything (God) throws at him because he has the strength of a mountain, the courage of the deep blue sea, and the heart of a lion. If anyone does, he does seem to.

[@Ozymandi_as]

It's rather wonderful that this video alone must be generating some significant income from KZbin, and all his other videos are getting more views than ever before. Hopefully it makes the treatment he is under in Canada less of a financial strain, as well as bringing a significant and lasting improvement to his health. He's had such an arduous journey, at an age when were meant to be doing other things, he's shown amazing resilience, and the kind of self-awareness that cannot have been comfortable at times. Now, it would be great if his health would settle, allow him to enjoy the success that he deserves, and just be in the world, rather than stuck in hospitals and sick beds. 'Hi Ren' already feels pretty miraculous, I really hope it proves as transformative for him as it has been revelatory for his burgeoning audience.

[@GVUEpi]

just now learned of him. HE. IS. INSANELY. GOOD. His storytelling is on point.

[@Lord6]

Same, 30 minutes ago 🙋‍♂️

[@xaxscratchxax926]

Same, 1 hour ago.

[@ryanmatthews3750]

As a neurodivergent growing up in a time where very little was known or understood about the various conditions that fall into that category, I can affirm with utmost conviction that this is one of the most real and raw perspectives ever submitted for review in musical form. I have fought against myself for nearly forty years, living through suicide attempts, intentionally self-destructive choices, and the willful ignorance of family members and former friends who wouldn't take the time to learn or relate. I am now at a point where I have very little friends at all and I don't speak with my family so much anymore - but I am unstoppable. I cannot be defeated by my mind. I still love my family dearly, and the couple of friends I have are some of the best I could ask for even if they're often busy and we don't get as many opportunities to talk as we used to. It's not about winning against yourself. It's about elevating yourself to the point where that other voice is either quiet and enjoying the ride, or encouraging you instead of trying to crush you. I believe in everyone and love you all.

[@forquer73]

I have seen about every reaction to this song and you are the only person who points out the guitar playing and singing at the beginning. The way he pulls those notes a little off key but not all the way creating that haunting effect.

[@christophermarler9867]

This song had me in tears. As a former addict I know this struggle all too well, that voice inside is real. It’s a constant battle. I see it in my son who is on the autistic spectrum as well. My job as his father is to show him how to not let it win. Never let the bad side win

[@Johnnylowfive]

As another father in a similar situation, (clean and sober, multiple mental health diagnoses, and a son that hasn't been fully tested but is likely to have Asbergers and possibly ODD) I'm sending you all the Dad Strength and love I can spare. Not only CAN you be there for your son but because of your sobriety you WILL be there and he will KNOW how loved and important he is. I'm ND as well and understand the feeling of helplessness that we can't take away all their pain and possible addictions. If I had a father like you who knows how things could have went, I do firmly believe EVERYTHING I've endured makes me a better "Duh Duh" and husband and wouldn't change anything for fear of changing my current life. 90%+ of addicts don't get sober, only about 10% of the 10% live a life that doesn't include many significant relapses. I was blessed/lucky/strong enough to be in that small group and I believe with all my being that if you love and cherish your son and take care of yourself as well, things will work out. That doesn't mean our kids won't suffer from the disease, but if you are always there for him, explain its not a weakness of character, and love, and support him as long as he's on the right path he will actually have greatly improved odds over most. I was a licensed Alcohol and substance abuse counselor and I KNOW my mother is why I'm here today so I also know YOU can do that for your son. Staying sober and being there are the two most important things you can do. You can't protect him from the world but you can prepare him for it. My son is 11 and I've already started very gently explaining addiction and the genetic components and he swears he's just not gonna drink ever! I wish/hope that happens, but I try to focus on what I can control. I've sworn to him that I can be called 24/7 for a ride or can be an excuse to avoid a situation that's possibly dangerous, basically I decided that if he doesn't drive or ride with someone who is drunk, if he knows that I'm available to talk to and not only as his Father but also as a Confidant or even simply a sober guy then we are ahead of the game. When it comes to drugs, alcohol, women, puberty, our bodies, or any of the myriad of things that a young boy has curiosity about, I've sworn to never lie to him. I've said that to him and made that promise to myself. If he's too young I will tell him that and if possible give a broad age appropriate answer. My father would have "killed me" and we didn't really talk anyway but I never called for a ride because I was more afraid of my father than basically anything else. Funny upbeat ending, we were watching The Matrix trilogy and during the "rave in the 3rd? one we growled and said "I'm missing the movie, why do grownups have to be naked in all the "good" movies?" MY father would have said something blunt and not really even explain it, or talk to me as if I was a grown up that understands attraction and sex. Something like "men like boobs" would be his answer. So now that I'm the father I told my son, when you get a little older and start to become a "man" you will start to be attracted to the opposite sex and that can include their physical looks, that it's part of our "animal side" and ensures that their are more Mom's and Dad's that want to start their own families and keep the species alive. So movies sometimes have naked people because real life does too. He responded with, "that's dumb, you're supposed to marry the woman you fall in love with and it doesn't matter what she looks like and you can't talk to the people in the movie anyway". Just a little reminder of how lucky we are and just how much we can really shape our children's view of the world. Congrats on sobriety and not that you need it but best of luck fellow Father.

[@ghost_615]

I've been waiting for this for like a month, haha. There's really nobody on KZbin that appreciates music quite like you do. Some people get annoyed when "reactors" pause the video so much, but I love it because you're stopping on each part that resonated with you. And it's awesome to see and share that experience that we all had the first time we watched this performance. Can't wait to see which song you do next!

[@TheCharismaticVoice]

Wow, thanks! ❤️

[@scraggsweaver]

@@TheCharismaticVoice please do ren chalk outlines live

[@elieshas2040]

Yes!!!

[@geoffbruce2824]

I love your line of "This is just so... human!" That's the best description I've heard yet, that's how this song has managed to hit SOOO many people. It's not aimed at a particular group of people, at a genre, at a demographic. If its aimed at all its aimed at the human race. We've all had some form of this conversation in our own head, whether "mentally ill" or not. There's a reason the "angel and devil on the shoulder" concept have been around so long. It's intrinsic to being human and Ren NAILED it with this song. I hope Ren's treatments keep going well because I'd love to see him be an interview at some point.

[@MenaceSociety]

Thanks for the reaction. Two words to describe Ren: Musical. Genius.

[@GrumpyGamerGuy]

I cried so much listening to this... The struggle is real, my battle rages on.. I'm 54, I've been "ill" half my life as well... I sit here and try to find joy in KZbin videos, some lead me astray, others, like this, shine so brightly for me....... I wish I had his strength. Thank you

[@OpalAllen-j8r]

I know about the battle. If I made it, so can you. I'm very old. God bless you.

[@michaelstamper5604]

I'm 60, and was diagnosed with depression shortly before I turned 30, although I now realise that I was a depressive since childhood. I have "walked the fine line" most of my life, and got dangerously close to stepping across that line more times than I can count. Trust me, friend, if you've made it to 54, you're already strong. Like all warriors. (And don't for a moment think you're not, or let anyone - including the liar in your mind - tell you that you aren't.) In my experience, those of us who have walked through hell are the strongest, kindest, most supportive human beings on the planet. That includes you. Keep marching, heroic warrior. The world needs you!

[@cubbance]

One of my favorite parts of this song is his vocalization in the beginning sounds haunting and expectant, and at the end when he revisits it, it sounds triumphant and hopeful. So powerful.

[@Runzelritter]

I´m 31 right now and was diagnosed with depression and emotinonal unstable personality disorder with 13. The story of this song is so damn true. Usually, when i listen to this sort of music, i dont feel like: "Yeah, thats right" But now, i´m sittin here with tears in my eyes and feel like:" god damn, this guy is so damn right!" Great pick and super analysis. Thank you for so much for this moment.

[@danielle7061]

Really love how you see and hear things. Thank you so much for this video I love this song

[@Ripskin16]

I liked how the inner voice also had the arguably more catchy beat and tune making it easy to slide in and listen to the lies. Lovely song and hits deep.

[@TrulyNamaste]

No one has mentioned this, nice x

[@cakesatellite]

TRU I find myself singing the saboteur’s lines way more than the empowered ren’s responses

[@Ripskin16]

@@cakesatellite Definitely!

[@ninagray4441]

@@TrulyNamaste it also means you have to pay more attention to the sane voice and as each of the calm/sane sections come after the bad side, means each sane part is teed up to get you to listen carefully to the balance.

[@davidbateleur8357]

A seriously groundbreaking performance, Ren deserves all the accolades that should come his way after this...

[@JR-kb1re]

What makes the standing on his own two feet even more powerful, is that the disease he has makes it difficult to stand on your own sometimes. Powerful. Chills every time.

[@ttyme082]

I've watched many of your reaction/analysis videos. I have always enjoyed your breakdowns and understanding of vocal intricacies. This has been my absolute favorite. You demonstrated your ability to connect emotionally more than just musically. Thank you for being you. Be well...