REN, Money Game 3 - A Classical Musician’s First Listen and Reaction

#ren
Ren does it again, causing us to stop what we are doing and take a hard look at who we are, to examine our values and morals - and how consistently we live by them! And musically? It’s hard to go far wrong when inspired by Edvard Grieg or the classic pavane!
Here’s the link to the original song by REN:
• Ren - Money Game Part ...
Vanguard tripods:
www.vanguardworld.com/
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Amy Shafer, LRSM, FRSM, RYC, is a classical harpist, pianist, and music teacher, Director of Piano Studies and Assistant Director of Harp Studies for The Harp School, Inc., holds multiple degrees in harp and piano performance and teaching, and is active as a solo and collaborative performer. With nearly two decades of teaching experience, she teaches privately, presents masterclasses and coaching sessions, and has performed and taught in Europe and USA.
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Credits: Music written and performed by REN
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[@mrdarengilbert3907]

WOW, this 1 hr, 6 mins and 8 seconds went by so quickly Brilliant, genius, intellectual reaction. Thank you

[@thomasmeyer8798]

Ren is not Rock and he is not Hip Hop. Ren is above every genre. Ren is a gift.

[@TheBorderRyker]

Ren isn’t like any other artist. He is truly unique.

[@davideastham]

I agree, Ren's genre = Yes.

[@wayne3093]

Bardcore.

[@nmbmarks]

Ok then. So, why is it here? Isn't this channel about rock?

[@TheBorderRyker]

@@nmbmarks a fair point. I’d say he’s here because of the quality of his work and because it goes beyond genres. I’ve been into rock and metal since I was 15 but Ren is the most exciting artist I’ve seen in years and liking his music doesn’t mean that I can’t still like metal, rock and classical music. 🙏🏻

[@supasoulproductions]

I had to laugh when I heard Amy say she would listen all the way through. I thought...She won't even make it through the Grieg intro. And sure enough... LOL

[@LeeKennison]

Thanks Amy and Vlad for doing my request, It means a lot to me. I know I can be a bit persistent (aka annoying 😉) when I am passionate about something. I won't do my usual what I liked or didn't like about this reaction and analysis. Instead I will just say, I knew your were the right person to do this, and you didn't disappoint. You were able to provide a great analysis and demonstration of the music, while at the same time not missing the overall artistic creation and the powerful message behind the story telling. Perfect song for your new piano.

[@LeeKennison]

@@jackrabbit0531 Lol, I would encourage you to use my technique, except I don't want poor Amy and Vlad to have to endure such persistence from too many. She only read a fraction of my lobbying efforts. 😉

[@drbosommd]

Thanks for requesting this wonderful song.

[@LeeKennison]

@@jackrabbit0531 If you are referring to your post I don't consider that whining. If you are referring to trying to convince Amy and Vlad to do your request, I guess it all depends on what is considered whining. Some may consider my "persistence" as whining, but to me whining would be getting mad at them for not doing it. Fortunately it never came to that stage for me, since they ultimately did it fairly soon after I started lobbying them, so I remain untested in that regard.😉

[@jovana_r]

Great job, Lee! 😁👍🤟

[@LeeKennison]

@@jovana_r Thanks Jovana. I've been hoping you would show up since I haven't seen you for awhile. Really great to hear from you.😀♥

[@TheBorderRyker]

Ren uses silence in his performances like an artist uses negative space! He is a once in a lifetime talent. ❤️‍🔥

[@PeachesandMoss]

I had that same thought.

[@b1u3star]

Perfectly said... I wish I thought of it first 😂

[@888records]

Using silence has always been great to keep people on their toes in a musical peace like this and Ren executes it very well

[@Colleen998]

The pianist who takes over from Ren is Charlie Woof-Byrne. He has a couple of videos posted on KZbin. Ren’s description of Money Game 3: “I grew up watching films like Scarface, Godfather, and shows like Breaking Bad. I love stories of character development from innocence to pure corruption and wanted to try and capture that in song, because I hadn’t really heard it done. It’s the story of the life of a character called Jimmy, who slowly sinks more and more into corruption and moral depravity. I also liked the juxtaposition of putting rap over a classical piano and string arrangement, two things that shouldn’t necessarily work together, that combine to create something pretty unique.”

[@jem77469]

"Now, REN has very generously allowed reactors and other people tp listen to his music video straight through, unbroken, without confronting them with copyright infringement claims." This is an important distinction between a 21st Century artist and a 20th Century property owner. Edit: On an entirely unrelated note, next in my queue will be a rabbit trail to explore Grieg. Thanks again, Amy!

[@direnova6284]

Grieg is so easy to listen to, it's a crowd pleaser. I can't imagine anyone with the inclination to find out more not finding it a joy.

[@noggintube]

Agree about the 21st century attitude to 'the business '. By allowing these reactions his music has reached people that would never have otherwise listened to it (I know I wouldn't have). I believe it's one of the reasons his music has exploded like it has and he deserves every bit of his success.

[@maddermax74]

most artists would allow you to do this infect a lot love to see reactions, the problem is the record label's that have control and there only interest in greed , Ren is his own boss he solo artist

[@Io-Io-Io]

Check out his #PeerGynt suite

[@allisonal]

It was Virgin Rock’s Hi Ren reaction that got me into Ren in the first place. Thanks Lee, Amy and Vlad! Once a person starts digging, and digging into his work, the question of what genre he is melts away. His versatility and the contrasts he is able to employ are delightful. This is what happens when a self-taught musician with a varied musical background manages to stay free of the normalizing, risk-averse influences of the music industry.

[@poppyholly1759]

@allisonal "It was Virgin Rock’s Hi Ren reaction that got me into Ren in the first place" Me too. I've thoughly enjoyed Ren's work, and am grateful to Amy for reviewing him, though I was very hesitant at first. In Hi Ren Amy commented that Ren was a musician, actor and singer - all at the same time. I think this is taken to a new level in Money Game 3.

[@katiecollison6629]

Ditto.. he's an artist

[@ianstewart7605]

@@poppyholly1759 Another "me too". By his own admission, Ren sees himself as a producer, but he produces his own musical work which is astounding quality, and so insightful and inspiring to others. I think this is the best of the several works by Ren I've seen so far. Where he will go from here, I can't imagine. But I know it will be worth watching and listening. Truly a 21st century musical genius.

[@Io-Io-Io]

His parents are both musicians. So music is in his genes

[@Vitosax32]

This is not a simple reaction to a piece of music, this is a lesson in musical composition…thank you, many many thanks for giving us your culture❤

[@thejoyofthemusicinmylife7897]

I think Ren came up with a new sub-genre of rap called rap opera.

[@frankmathijs1124]

Operap? ;-)

[@docdurdin]

Ren wrote and composed this performance and taught it to the players. The pianist had an earpiece so he could be sure to keep step. He did the same with the strings and they all did an exceptional job. It was for sure all done live with his lapel mic. The cut came to adjust the mic to his tie so it could take the rain. That doesn't mean that the music wasn't put in a mix down for the final sound. Ren is a perfectionist. I hope you have watched the trilogy tale of Jenny & Screech, yoiu will truly appreciate them.

[@sarahcp6117]

There are (at least) 2 references to other songs by Ren in the opening vocals. It starts with the opening notes to "Violet's tale" (a sad and epic tale) and then transitions to the chorus of "Money Game" Part 1. The MG1 chorus is also echoed by the violin in the string quartet. Thank you for this lovely reaction ^^

[@ianstewart7605]

@@eryksun And the circle of the money game is complete.

[@ramonparkour]

And Ren's diss track response to king dotta, he says "You're losing the race" just like Jimmy's father. At the same diss track Ren talks about the divides of society.

[@JohnDoe-ds6pr]

The highest honour or accolade for a singer songwriter, is to categorized by peers and fans as a Storyteller. This means they have the ability to pull you into their world - as you say - lose track of time, and take you to a place of history, learning, and not just entertainment. This is the ultimate skill, and Ren does this better than most.

[@PatrickMattson]

The melody on the violin when he starts saying Jimmy followed the code is from Money game 1

[@elleshar666]

I never, actually, listen anything other than metal and classical/neo-classical music. I think REN is a new age bard. A bard that leans towards meaningful topics and out of norm musical choices. That's what metal is with more emphasis on exploding aggressiveness.

[@JulieAiken]

I can not believe it. I watched your entire analysis from start to finish, and was enthralled. I've heard the song several times (and will several, several, several more), and you brought so much to it by focusing on the dynamics and flow, etc., of the music. The lyrics give us so much to ponder, but Ren's music is just as integral to his story and message. Fantastic reaction! Like Ren, you never disappoint!

[@dropbarracuda]

I *LOVE* your Ren reactions because you really, truly get it. I appreciate so much that you opted to listen all the way through for your first time due to Ren's view on copywrite claims. Ren has the rare ability to really draw in the listener and hold their attention for 10 (somehow short) minutes at a time. If you read the lyrics to many of his songs, you might wonder at the sheer audacity of expecting the listener to take in so, so much, and he does it *masterfully*. He brings difficult subjects to the forefront, and the listener isn't offended, but instead comes away with some deep, meaningful things to not only think about, but also discuss or share with others. It's astonishing that he does this again and again.

[@BLIND82]

Ren is such a GENIUS not only did he give a nod to blind eyed with Sam thompkins (blind eye from the po po) but did anyone notice where the globe landed?? Colombia!! 🤯

[@dropbarracuda]

Also: thank you so much for the revelation/insight on Grieg. You're SPOT ON, and I've never heard anyone else pick up on that. 👏❤

[@JG-lx5pm]

MUST DEFINITELY: This young guy may be deficient physically for some reason but it is SUUUUPER gifted in what he does, his renditions are SUPERB, very good quality, the messages transcend without question, they are food for thought, it is not only music but poetry and philosophy all packed in one... HE NEEDS TO BE PROMOTED BIG TIME, so he shares his great messages to the world, hopefully he keeps on sharing his great creations for a very long time.... SOOOO MUCH COMING OUT OF HIM, SOOOO DARN GIFTED, THANKS REN, PLEASE KEEP UP THE EXCELLENT WORK.

[@helenjarvis7755]

Lyme disease from a tick bite. Undiagnosed until it became chronic

[@JG-lx5pm]

@@helenjarvis7755 Well... maybe I could help him in his cure, if we only could be in touch.... well destiny will tell, if we are to cross paths, I will try to be in touch with him but... not sure how successful i would be.

[@simpleiowan3123]

I appreciate your thoughtful breakdowns of Ren's music. You shatter the meme of the typical classical musician who looks down on popular artists. Well done 👍

[@dunny2000]

Ren’s music often seems like it needs two breakdowns. One for the music and one for the lyrics. Few reactors ever try to do both in one reaction but you have pulled it off masterfully. I loved hearing your take on the musical score and I understand that Ren wrote all the parts. Best music video I have seen in years and best reaction to this piece so far. Bravo.

[@wopaah]

And then there is the layer of videography and lighting. Joe E Sparks usually has us covered there, but Amy also mentioned some things about the piano and the mirror.

[@Whitestripe71]

I wasn't wearing my glasses when I saw the thumbnail for this video, and I thought I was about to watch a REM song - so I had quite the surprise! A very welcome, pleasant surprise - this is great!

[@BryanShoemake]

Thank you for returning to Ren. Love your break down of his music. Thank you for helping others to get to experience his music. His genre is Ren. #Ren

[@kendrastrange18]

My mother played Grieg as a kid and I love how he used it, brought me back.

[@thol3498]

wow i just realized that Grieg has been my alarm clock for like 10 years

[@jacks9624]

Ren never took piano lessons - hence the non-conventional hands, or "stiff" as you said. Loved your sparkling eyes on the Grieg beginning phrase. When Ren uses Eminem line, much more people notice it, this one was a bit under the radar, so - appreciate you pointing it out. That means that our boy does not shy from classical music either. Thanks for your reaction, it was really great!

[@neurocide]

What Eminem lines does Ren use? Just being curious.

[@allisonal]

“Hi” 😄

[@manuelper]

As a classically trained pianist myself, I can tell that Ren has done a good bit of practice since the last time I saw him play one on the song he did live for his friend Joe. He still has a bit of stiffness, which is understandable, there are only so many hours in a day to practice and Ren has a lot going on; but he did great imo.

[@aornellas]

@@neurocide the whole "she sells seashells by the sea shore" nursery rhyme he used both in Hi Ren and in Money Game Part 2 he actually pulled from Eminem's use of the phrase.

[@neurocide]

@@aornellas That's all Ren not Eminem. There is a clip floating around on the interwebs where someone dubbed Ren's 2nd verse of MG2 over video from Em's 8 Mile. Em got nothing to do with it.

[@Mhantrax]

Fantastic perception (around 38 minutes) about the melody with a funeral melody. This first part of his vocal melody is from Violet's Tale, which is the final part of a trio of songs that tell the story of Jenny and Screech. This melody is from Violet's Tale, which is the third part. I will not share any more due to spoilers, but it deeply ties into the conclusion of that story. As others have mentioned, right after that initial phrasing of Violet's Tale comes a rendition of the melody from Money Game Part 1. I have listened to these pieces many times and though I cannot say I know precisely what he means by this, I have a deep notion of what the entire of the song is about, even before the rest of it. And to tag on a tiny bit more, when the, "rain," comes down near the end, well, let's just say that there are specific, repeated lyrics in both Parts 1 and 2 of Money Game that more than hint about a foreboding of how these decisions will end up in the end. "Rain, Rain Rain, Rain, a storm it comes our way...." "Lamborghini for a life, trading money for souls?" This really, deeply calls me back to Schindler's List. In that time, though, a man actually and literally traded money for souls, but he saved the souls at the cost of a Lamborghini instead of Jimmy, who gave the souls to obtain the Lamborghini.

[@alanmurphy8194]

Thank you for pointing out the rain part, I had not linked the lyric from the previous songs until then, it goes to show how much thought he puts into his music not just in one songs, but across them as well.

[@antisquishy]

The strings also play the hummed parts from Money Game pt. 1 and pt. 2

[@alanmurphy8194]

@antisquishy didnt know that either 🤔 I think I need to watch 100 more of each🤣

[@LisaMagdalenaBardell]

The melody is from money game 1

[@alanmurphy8194]

@@LisaMagdalenaBardell ok guys, stop embarrassing me now 🤣

[@jaylarson3182]

Some call the gift of prophecy psychosis, Ren probably doesn't know what is going on in that regard. But Ren is taped in to the creative energy the father has given. It's without thought so to speak, Flow is how He sees it.

[@GeneralChannel-sc6gh]

In fact, "In the Hall of the Mountain King", which you played as another Grieg-Example, is interpreted by rock bands A LOT. I, for instance, know it from "Epica", "Apocalyptica" and the "Transsiberian Orchestra" playing it; with Apocaliptica doing the best job. I listened to the original just today^^

[@ChrisLawton66]

And The Who covered it as well.

[@TrueEmotionEric]

"Money Game Part 3, Uninterrupted..." :::30 seconds later::: "I have to stop..." Classic Ren reaction, love this.

[@jonreed6448]

I believe yamaha lent them a grand piano to do the video, there is a video of behind the scenes with him on the piano, working with the string quartet, worth a watch, shows a lot of the preparation work for the video.

[@darthgardner]

you are correct it was yamaha uk who let them use that piano..and its expensive.

[@thomasgoldschmidt298]

@@darthgardner I heard that Ren was shocked when he heard the price of the piano later. Yamaha is at least on par with Steinway.

[@alexbuchanan3292]

The pianist is wearing an ear piece so he can hear ren clearly. Enjoyed your comments.

[@walkerig1]

His hands may be stiff because of his Lyme disease which has damaged his nerves and to some extent his connective tissue and joints. Like many people with Lyme he has long term pain that may be with him all his life, causing rheumatism and arthritis. He is largely self taught on multiple instruments from watching slowed down KZbin videos to learn how to play a piece.

[@MizCriz46]

I think it's very possible that it's at least partially the damage he sustained. I know in at least 1 busking video, at the end of the song he shakes his right hand pretty hard, as you would if it were cramping. Also, in the "red suspenders" videos, he's wearing a glove on that same hand. I assumed it was to keep those joints warm, not some affectation.

[@REN4eva]

Very good and interesting reaction. It was nice to see someone delve deep into the importance of the music to the story, thank you!

[@Daze475]

"so beautiful and peaceful that it hurts to look at it" is one of those rare lines giving goosebumps, instantly realising how much true it is

[@Hartlor_Tayley]

Virgin rock you brought so much to this video, just incredible. Thank you

[@clscragg]

On the quartet I think he is showing the metaphor “he is facing the music”, also the melody the quartet is playing is the chorus of part 1 and 2. At the end he also instead of signing the chorus, he is enacting the chorus, rain, rain, rain… ☔️

[@bunyipdan]

There are so many emotions so many complex orchestrated moments that I deeply appreciate with this performance. I have mentioned in other reactions that Ren uses silence/pauses like a sculpture uses space and with this creates artistic masterpieces. There are two moments in the music where I find myself deeply yearning for more, the vocal intro where he gives just a couple of bars of Money Game chorus the delicious blowy wooh oh o o o o o (drifing off with the gravelly) whahhhhh!....and the string quartet just before he grabs the camera has me despirately wanting more of these elements, and leaves me craving more ....... insidiously silently almost intangibly the performance is vibrating, generating greed undertones plucking at the strings connected to my soul which he has been gently luring to the surface with his music ..... echoing the underlying warning message of this song, greed is the root of all evil ....... pure genius

[@YoreHistory]

Amy it is so absolutely thrilling to see you when you are so genuinely excited about an artist and their performance. It was a pleasure watching this as was your reaction and dissection of it :) THANK YOU!!!

[@user-pg7ze3kk1s]

Niceeee ¡! Yes, he actually said in an interview that is a live recorded video and he brought a $150k Yamaha grand Piano and made them tune it in an specific manner so it can sound the way he composed the music for the dark story of his song. And he used Greigs concerto piano in A menor opening , in his own melodic version for his song... Thats a lot right there........ Rene also said in an interview that he is self thought in all the instruments he can play piano, acoustic classical and electric guitar, and bass.... So, I guess He could be a jazz blues or rockstar singer, or a rapper, or a theatrical musical producer, or just a musician producer,.... or all at the same time.... who knows...... ¡!¡!

[@LeeKennison]

I've heard both Ren and Sam the videographer say that Yamaha provided the piano. Sam said Ren took every opportunity he had to play on it, since he loved the sound so much.

[@helenjarvis7755]

​@@LeeKennisonyes I am sure I heard they shipped it free also

[@LeeKennison]

@@helenjarvis7755 Yes, and I also heard that Yamaha sent out folks to set it up and tune it.

[@buca505]

I missed the premiere, but this is great, even you did not listen nr 1 and 2, so you miss some musical and lyrics reference that are appearing in all three versions, as a standalone piece and listen, you marvelously hit the point. How I was convinced and you did not fail to fulfill my assumptions, that you will recognize Grieg at the beginning, so much other reactors and analysts missed that one, but not Amy. There is one reference that you missed, and “that is such damned shame” in “tale of Jenny and Screech” he concluded the death of both of them with line “it’s such a shame” so telling us in his story that being poor or rich, successful or failed, wrong or right, decisions we, she, he, me, you make, can have “such a shame” for results. I like how he make his message so crossed trough another of his works, and I would like if you find time to analyze part 1 and 2 together in one run, and to compare evolution of his ideas, musically, lyrically, and visually, and to put all the puzzles of this idea that first came to his mind 3-4 years ago. Lots of greetings and lots of love for you and your family Amy, for Vlad and Kid’o❤ Keep on good work my dear people!

[@markthomas2577]

I've heard of this guy but didn't know he was British ....... he seems worth checking out!

[@woodywoodman2319]

Very much so! In all my 55 years, 40 years in music... I've Never seen anyone like him! He truly has more layers than an onion, more Bars (as today's kids call them! Lol) than a prison! From Rock, to Pop, to Barcore, to Reggae, to Rap (that I've Never enjoyed until him!)... The Cat IS Music!!! Recommend: Crutch, Ready for You, I Shot the Sheriff/Road to Zion/Hip Hop, Englishman in New York, Praise You, Bongo Bong, Animal Flow, Murderer, etc...

[@PatrickMattson]

He's actually Welsh

[@MsCheesemonster13]

@@PatrickMattson He is British AND Welsh, while I’m British and English. The United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, commonly known as the United Kingdom (UK) or Britain. It is comprised of four countries: England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.

[@PatrickMattson]

​@@MsCheesemonster13if you ask him I'd bet he'd say he's Welsh.

[@seagull01-cp8pb]

@@woodywoodman2319- some of those recommendations are songs by The Big Push. A band Ren was in until his illness interfered.👍🦇

Hello Amy! I'm very happy to see you come back to contemporary art. It is true that the music/entertainment industry doesn't promote nowadays the best productions. Happily, the public, via online media, finds and celebrates rare pearls as REN. Even if I'm ESL, he always strikes me with his English, the way he writes, and his pronunciation, so clear, so dramatic, and so different from the "classical rap" flow. And from this comes another idea that he is doing an "accessible music" in a sense only a disable person can. It's easy to understand for everyone. He doesn't hide behind metaphors. The entire piece of art is made to deliver a clear message, with nuances, but no ambiguities. Also, thank you and kudos for playing by heart "The morning" and "In the hall of the mountain's king" from E. Grieg. I love the whole Peer Gynt suite and story and more. Greetings!

[@bethscott4330]

Thank you so much for sharing with us your take on this song. You have a very unique perspective because of your love and history with music. I love how you completely engage your whole self when you listen. Keep it up.

[@xaxscratchxax926]

My first experience with your channel. Love the attention to detail, quality, and overall experience. Will be coming back for more(hopefully Ren)!

[@andersjohansson5489]

Ren rocks.

[@thomasgoldschmidt298]

Thank you for reacting to Ren, again. I do believe he is a generational artist and we experience the beginning of his rise. Some of his next songs might be more suitable for this channel. He made himself known as a Rap artist with his last album Sick Boi. I am curious to see which genre he tackles next. 😉

[@ojayferojay478]

It will be BRIT POP ROCK like Oasis, Blur, his already in the process since last year so it won’t be too long till we get more great stuff!

[@RonYoung-wc7ty]

First time commenter... Thanks Amy, Vlad (and Lee). One thing I like with your videos is being exposed to different genres of music that I haven't encountered before as well as the deep dives into songs and I know well. Just listening to ren for for the very first time. I getting some Alan Parsons and trans Siberian orchestra narrator vibes. Very cool. Thank you!

[@seagull01-cp8pb]

I hope you delve into more Ren. There are some real gems there. If you are Rock inclined check out the band Ren was in The Big Push. Excellent stuff.👍🦇

[@RonYoung-wc7ty]

@@seagull01-cp8pb thanks I'll check them out

[@tvadakia]

My absolute favorite composer is Edvard Grieg. His composure in A Minor is is top notch IMO. That Ren opened with it blew me away. I have nothing but love for this tribute.

[@conradschumacher4013]

Thank you for your wonderful analysis of this great piece if music. Your insights really help me appreciate what Ren and his team have created even more. And it was wonderful to see how much you loved Ren starting with some Greig! Thanks again and I really hope Ren see your video.

[@DoctorFatman]

This one made me think of Liszt's “Hungarian Rhapsody #2” for some reason. Probably because of a similar pattern of progression an energy, although Ren's work is of course darker here.

[@redbandita020]

I am typing this during your tripod ad presentation. So even before watching your actual reaction. I feel quite connected to you, right away, as I grew up a classical choir kid with a Dad who played Dixieland Jazz, a Mom who was jamming Italian Opera while cleaning, all of us singing Bach etc. in a quote good church choir in Northern Germany. I listened to all kinds of genres, from 80's Kate Bush to 90's grunge, hip hop and rock. So I grew up hearing a multitude of genres. I ended up singing in classical choirs all my youth and young adulthood, until did the entrance exam to the Lower Saxony Youth Choir in 1994. I was suddenly finding myself soloing the choir's incidental jazz programme solos, and, wanting to study singing but *not* Classical, went on to study Jazz Vocals at the Amsterdam conservatory. Haven't sung actively in 20+ years, but that's how my life turned out. Watching your analysis and appreciation, there is one singer/performer I would like to recommend. Jeff Buckley was an up and coming artist in the early 90's, promoting his album, "Grace", making waves and recording his second album, but tragically drowned while taking a swim in the Mississippi. His live performances of the song "Grace" are smart composition, virtuous guitar play and a voice so elastic and emotional the angels must have convinced God to take him from us, too early, so he could join their choir. Please give him a chance. My favourite version is the "BBC one Show" performance. 29:56 Ren said he practiced the arpeggios, hard, so as to not mess up the shoot. I hear he's self taught on piano

[@margaretpickholtz8772]

It is nice to have someone in the classical world react to a production like this, nice job.

[@karllines2952]

Thank you Amy. Your insight is not just technical, but sensitive and intuitive. It was a beautiful breakdown.

[@sorenm.lairdsorries7547]

Thank you 🙏❤ Amy ❤ for your 🐷 Ren - 🎻🎻🎹💰🐚 Money Game, Part 3 reaction! #moneygamepartthree #ren #sickboialbum

[@Veeliscious]

As a Ren Reaction junkie, what I especially love about your reactions is not just that you really dive deep into every intricate detail but also give us a lesson both in Ren's artistry, and how a certain note or pause or pace evokes an intentional feeling within us or portent of what's to come, delivering the story in itself - as someone who didn't progress much beyond learning to play London's Burning on the Recorder at junior school, I find it really fascinating. Thank you

[@MichaelCRush]

Really enjoyed your analysis of the music. Thanks! (If you want to hear Ren sing a bit of a round, check out "How To Be Me (Live)".) A cool thing that you wouldn't pick up on having started with Money Game 3 is that the strings part subtly echoes the Money Game theme as established in Parts 1 and 2.

[@rog2224]

There's a possibility that Ren's Limes' Disease may influence some of the finger positions. Joint inflammation and stiffness are a common symptom of the disease, although I don't know his specific expression. There are cases where the diagnosis has been RA, rather than Limes', for a long time.

[@robertruiz98]

Towards the beginning of this video when she was playing the piano I caught a flashback of the Pink Panther I grew up on that cartoon

[@helenjarvis7755]

Ren fan here Loved Grieg specifically this piano concerto since I first heard it at eight years old Thank you for your reaction

[@sextond]

"It demands your attention" Wow, what a great comment! Ren tells a parable here to make a point about our relationship to money. He wants change, as do many of us. Can his words be enough to start change, I don't know but this at least shines the mirror on all of us.

[@kathrynrogers4808]

Such a wonderful analysis! I really enjoyed it. You picked up on so many elements. I especially like your point of how the music and lyrics and visuals all work together to inform our perception and understanding of the story. Ren is a master storyteller. He does an exceptional job of using the music to set the tone and introduce where the story is going. I love how the end of the story is a call back to how it began. The way he incorporates elements from Money Game 1 and 2 is interesting also - the hoods, the melody played by the viola, and visualization of the rain instead of being part of the lyrics. I really don’t think Ren does anything without purpose in his videos. I would love to hear your analysis of Money Game 1 and 2 (2 being a lyric video). And it would be amazing to hear your analysis of the full Tales of Jenny and Screech (and Violet), another epic three part story which earned him the label of modern day bard.

[@mikedatiger7706]

I'm a huge fan of rock, hard rock, and metal. Have been all my life. And never much a fan of rap. But there's just something different about Ren. He could make a Country album next and I would still buy it

[@Vmcf1968]

ren has said that his next album will be more of a "rock" album. the way you are able to see music i cant wait to see what your analysis of it will be.

[@45Lonewolf45]

Ren is every genre , he is a genius, I’m 58 and I been listening to rock my whole life but I would never turn down Ren , he’s like a box of chocolates, never know what you’re gonna get

[@kanalnamn]

Isn't that melody he's doing vocally in the beginning a lower variation of the beginning of Violets tale? He seems to do things like that alot.

[@patcow9999]

Fantastic reaction, really love the insight from a trained eye! As I think it was, Lee said, it is a one take except for the need to bring in the string quartet, another subtle change at that time was moving his lapel microphone, since he would shortly be removing his jacket. For me, MG 3 is a masterpiece and shows how nurturing can take an ugly turn.

[@peterveste6976]

thank you for reacting to my favourite artist ever more Ren please ❤❤

[@goobydoot]

I love hearing your perspective and expertise applied to modern non classical music.

[@stephenmor66]

People over a certain age in the UK knows the Greig from the Morecambe and Wise skit with André Previn.

[@johnthompson6374]

Ren is Art. Rock is Art. Therefore, Ren is a Rock. Congratulations Ren. 💙💛🦝Peace/JT

[@michaelwaynemartin3291]

Science

[@debthecpn]

Self taught on the piano using KZbin tutorials. Same with the guitar. That is impressive in anyone’s eyes.

[@waneemo9067]

Lovely analysis. You havent heard Money game 1 and 2 yet but once you do you will see that Ren carried the basic refrain melody with the violins near the end. He always brings a phrase or element from his other songs into any song he does to tie them together. He used the piano to build intensity beautifully. He is a master at that, either with his voice or instruments. He is a generational talent that will leave a profound impact with his messages and music versatility.

[@mranster]

I wanted to listen to the original work before turning to any reaction videos, but immediately after I finally listened to all three parts of Money Game, yours is the first reaction I turned to. Great work, as always.

[@matthewhawkins1472]

Love your reactions and appreciate your expertise musically. Love learning from your vast pool of knowledge and experience. God Bless you and thank you so very much for your efforts.❤🙏🏻

[@viracocha03]

Even though you probably will not read this or take my recommendation if you do, I will still make my comment. Ren does play some amazing classic rock covers and rock style songs with his band "The Big Push" and I recommend checking them out, they are all gifted musicians and give an amazing live performance. Also, you personality is absolutely wonderful and you love of music just pours out of you, it shines from your eyes. Love it.

[@sharis9095]

Ren does this in a way that doesn't point a finger so it's ok to self reflect. Money can't be the only goal. If it is, you'll never win because you'll never have enough. We teach children every day and the lessons aren't always planned. For example, Halloween... a house leaves the candy bowl out with a take 1 sign. The parent dumps the whole bowl into their kids bowl. What did you teach them. Little things matter.

[@sketchtherapy1218]

The piano is deffinitely doing montunos and tumbaos from latin music I love it.

[@pa40pa]

what Ren really has mastered is the art of suspense.

[@barefootalien]

"He's _really_ putting thought into every element of this." Yeah... that's Ren. Not a single frame or a single sound in any of his songs and videos is there without a reason. From these Bardcore masterpieces to the radio-worthy bangers, they're all just _spectacular_ art. Even when he doesn't think he's being artistic, he is. He'll react to people reacting to songs like Murderer or Animal Flow and be astonished at the depth and meaning they found in them, claiming that they're just bops, or just brag pieces. He's a true artist... shocking levels of depth and meaning and impact just _gush_ out of him. It's like he can't help it!

[@juanjoseescanellas3798]

I consider Lee a Heroe 'cause I have to really thank did him let this work of Amy out and brightly so shine. But even to whom think Ren doesn't deserve a place here, I say "I'm proud of you" (while still thinking different than me). And I think Ren wants to suceed spreading his message, and so the contradiction is not inconsistency from him.

[@LeeKennison]

Thank you very much (assuming I'm the Lee you are referring to). Sorry I missed this post earlier.

[@jeanwyenberg2774]

Lovely review. Ren has guitar hands! That left hand spends a lot of time wrapped around a guitar!

[@LeeKennison]

As humans we love stories. We love to hear stories, and we love to tell stories. We tell stories about ourselves in our everyday interactions. Many times we develop an image of ourselves that we would like to portrait to the world. We then create narratives to fit that image, it becomes the mask we put on for the world (and often for ourselves). There are usually varying degrees of truth vs "enhancements" to make the story better and more interesting. Much of this is subconscious and we don't even realize we are doing it. Eventually we tell our story enough that our "enhancements" become part of our memory. Many rock legends are built on these types of memories. They make great stories.

[@stevenlangton5607]

Ren s mother was a music teacher , he plays electric and acoustic guitar , piano , drums and makes his own beats behind all his rap music so talented ❤❤

[@albamartinez4987]

I believe she is a vocal coach

[@belgand5555]

Thank you.. you are delightful.. yes it never was the intention of Ren to be a concert pianist but it was intent to be intentional.. I think some of the stiffness may be due to neuropathy etc.. everything Ren does makes us fall in love with him more and more… he is exactly the right person to bring us all to the table musically while dining on serious and thought provoking ethos.. I truly reveled in your complete and complex analogy of the performance.. thank you 😊 🎶😊

[@deportedsouls3165]

I was quite surprised when you mentioned "most people aren't aware of Edvard Grieg" (or something similar), because here in Sweden you learn about him in school.

[@Dsdnv]

Same here in Finland. But perhaps Grieg isn't so well known outside Nordics or Europe.

[@drbosommd]

That definitely doesn't happen in Australia unless you are in a dedicated music course which is optional .

[@katiecollison6629]

I knew the piece cause my mother loved classical music,but I didn't know who it was by..thank you..from 🇬🇧

[@christycarrigg1642]

I think you should also listen to some of his other music, because he has such a beautiful voice and can still tell a beautiful and emotional story in a very different way. I strongly recommend "How To Be Me" or "Chalk Outlines" where he sings with Chinchilla.

[@lauried6974]

To me, his art is like musical theater, like Hamilton.

[@andreakinuthia4197]

His latest release, MacKay, is different again - well worth a listen. He created it in memory of a friend who died tragically young.

[@alanmurphy8194]

I don't think I can add much more than hasn't already been said. Ren's 10 min song grabs you and you don't notice the time and your superb, eloquently explained breakdown teaches me so much more about the song and other songs that over an hour went by and I was enthralled by your reaction. Thank you❤

[@glyngasson8450]

All piano parts were played by Ren, unbelievable

[@davemasters8]

I appeciate your precise interpretation and intense breakdown of the structure and realtioinships to past music/musicians. I saw your Jethro Tull reaction and the fact that you did a follow up to take the time to really dig into it and have respect for you and continue follow you. , I have seen all of the Ren Vids reactions....KUDOS,,,,I say this with LOVE,,,to me you're truly the Dr. Ruth of music... Shalom

[@gwydion56]

Ren is reality delivered through music and theatrical performance. I feel as if his message is mainlined into my soul.

[@TheDoctorFlay]

Ren doesn't stick to 1 genre. He blends rock, reggae, hip-hop, folk, classical and spoken word into his own genre. He is as rock and roll as they come.

[@AnneBiebrich]

Other than the very beginning piece, Ren has written and composed all music for the piano and the strings

[@sketchtherapy1218]

I love Ren he's the reason I subbed, he rocks also.

[@Hello_I_am_Jeff]

So many things in REN’s performances are calculated: The money bag over the heads represent how we are slaves to the game. The replacement pianist represents that the game doesn’t stop when we stop and someone else is there to take over when we fall. The mirror scene is the unmasking of Jimmy to himself once his game ends, confronted with his own life and downfall, as the narrator retells the tale. Just to name a few. It’s so clever

[@simongoff9190]

I also love Grieg. In the Hall of the Mountain King is probably my favorite piece of classical music... I was so pleasantly surprised that Ren started with Grieg too. Excellent analysis!

[@macfilms9904]

One note on video technique - they use some of the camera moves (especially the one behind the wheelchair) to hide resetting the set with new people and props - it's possible that the camera even turned off when it went to black & they reset, turned the camera back on & finished the camera move - you wouldn't notice because it's a black screen to black screen - clever whether it's continuous or off/on - needed because those string players & chairs weren't there before. Ren & Sam (his director) are extremely clever that way