[REACTION!!] Old Rock Radio DJ REACTS to REN ft. "Hi Ren"

[@coreydean6540]

Dude!! You told me when I first asked about reacting to this song that it had been reacted so much you probably didn't have anything to add. See, that was your self doubt side speaking. You not only added to it, you hit it out of the park!! Great reaction and my many, many thanks!!! Now I will get to bugging you about some of my other favorites by him. You will come to know you cannot put Ren into any genre. He has many, he has his own. Thanks again!!

[@nancymunroe3672]

I concur!!! You have given one of the best reactions and explanations I I have heard!!! I have no idea how many I have listened to, maybe 50 to 75. Thank you, and I have subscribed to your channel.

[@PamBoehmeSimon]

I concur!

[@PamBoehmeSimon]

@@nancymunroe3672 At the risk of creating an "I concur" avalanche/waterfall, I CONCUR!!!!

[@nikint1]

I concur! Your analysis is spot on: not an "out of tune" note out of place; Ren draws us in expertly to tell his, and our own, stories; his energy is frenetic and driving, and utterly authentic. Thanks for your reaction!

[@RockaKelly]

That reaction is gold. As I'm from Germany and don't know what concur is. But I guess you are right. 😊

[@nhoward6035]

Forgot to say, I am 65 years old and have been a music fanatic all my life and I think Ren just might be the most all around talented individual I've EVER come across.

[@wizarddragon]

I don't think he is the best actor, best rapper, best singer, or guitar player but I do think is the best at using all of those skills to tell stories. He doesn't try to hide his weaknesses. He actually uses them to complement his strengths, Very intelligent and moving artist.

[@progrocker2112]

Generational talent is how I'd say it. Epic level bard is how I'd say it in D&D language.

[@pathouston6673]

I'm 67 and couldn't agree more❤❤❤❤❤❤❤

[@staceyshaffer180]

63 yo lady from Washington state. I agree with you! Been waiting a long time for talent like this to come a long. Like since the 70’s!

[@nigelstuart756]

Ren will do just fine without being polluted by a "Label". He has already shown us that being "Real" and true to yourself and your values is a priceless commodity these days. It will continue to bring him a massive loyal fan base that will find ways to support and fund a decent living for him without having to sell out. The man is a breath of fresh air. ❤

[@lizb5410]

Keine Panik. Er weiß, dass er weder Sony noch einen Radio DJ benötigt. Er hat von Eminem, Asaf Avidan und anderen Kreativen gelernt (kopiert). Und viele werden dann Ren kopieren. 🤷 Eine neue Musikströmung wird beginnen. Endlich! Das war alles längst überfällig. Von den heutigen 😴 Mainstream- Shranzen bekommen kreative Menschen nur noch Ohrenkrebs... 😖

[@ShavidDerf]

​@@susiejo143 Ren did elaborate about this topic recently on his appearance on Justin Hawkins Rides Again. It was a subsidiary of Sony, and it wasn't as sinister as many social media comments are about it. I recommend checking out the episode. Good stuff.

[@susiejo143]

@@ShavidDerf I did

[@nigelstuart756]

@@ShavidDerf Yeah, it's a brilliant watch. Pretty much covers all about Ren, his past, present and future outlook. 👍

[@susiejo143]

@@nigelstuart756 I still don't think they really need a label telling them what to do and when

[@jenjenjen2222]

No, keep him independent! If he gets signed he can’t speak/sing about the things he does sing about. He will be shut up by those in power. He needs to maintain HIS power by being an independent artist. WE the people need to boost his numbers and support the hell out of this guy!

[@TheWyldesidewithEricClark]

My "label" comment has more to do with the things that aren't the performance. Eventually, he's going to need venue management, ticket sales management, studio management, access to producers, engineers, marketing teams, etc. There is a side of the label that is needed to grow and effect larger audiences. His messages need to be heard, and a major label, done correctly and with good intentions, would only serve to grow his audience. Someone has to find roadies, buy gaffer tape for wires, new guitar strings, deal with sponsors, venues, merch, etc. While labels have the reputation of burning folks, more artists than not would never be known without their support and guidance. But he'll be fine regardless, you're correct, but I think his message is needed beyond the "cult" status or niche market. Cheers, Eric

[@davidjones4252]

@@TheWyldesidewithEricClark Very good points, and being so much more mature in his music, he'd likely be in much better standing with whatever negotiations are involved... That, and the fact that he seems very content with the current status quo and is very much grounded - as you get deeper into his music, you'll see that he's not exactly about accumulating material wealth. That said, I believe you're absolutely correct about ensuring his work can be spread to as wide of an audience as possible. His messages do need to be heard.

[@TheWyldesidewithEricClark]

@@davidjones4252 Plenty of bands have been successful with little label support, and plenty of bands are where they are because of label support, and both have lived happily ever after. Like signing any contract, if you're smart, you'll be protected as much as possible. It's the young and hungry ones that are usually "preyed" upon, but in reality, don't live a Rock & Roll lifestyle, take all the rewards, lose mojo, then get made when someone doesn't want to pay the bills any longer. The old, "It takes 2 to Tango". He seems like a bright person and I'm sure he learned from previous experiences. Cheers, Eric

[@mutleyeng]

He's not just some guy off the streets though - he is pretty well connected in the industry, he's just had a very interrupted career because of illness, and he likes busking

[@robmarar]

@@TheWyldesidewithEricClark Breeaking News: (Hip-Hop/Rap charts): Ren's new drop Animal flow hit #1 UK itunes chart, #8 Australian itunes chart, #18 US itune charts. 💣 🔥💣

[@LeeKennison]

I have watched dozens of these reactions, and this is one of the best ones yet. I appreciate your wanting to get him hooked up with a label, but at the same time I don't want him to get hooked up with a label that will try to influence/hinder his creativity. He needs a label that will allow him to create on his own timeline, even if he needs to take long periods of time to deal with his own health issues. Let Ren be Ren, since that is where the magic is found.

[@cindiaker5778]

If you liked the guitar in this song....you will LOVE the guitar in The Tale of Jenny & Screech (& Violet)....and Ren with The Big Push "I shot the Sheriff".....He just is a genius at the highest level in every regard.

[@momishka7]

I concur

[@Melly01]

When I saw how long your reaction was, I thought, "Oh no. Someone else who stops every fifth word." But instead I found no pausing and that visceral response you mentioned (which is why I like reaction videos), and a thoughtful, very worthwhile commentary that hit multiple components on this piece of artistic and human brilliance. I loved everything you said, all so true. I always appreciate people who "get" things I find important, and this is important. Not only did you get what I got, I walked away with more to dissect that you provided. What else can you ask for?! Great reaction. New sub.

[@scottw5253]

^ what they said ^^ 💯

[@scottw5253]

The pause every 5th word reactors doing a Ren song absolutely drive me bat shit crazy

[@valkyrie1066]

Well, OLD DJ, I'm 63, love your background collection of music, first-time watcher to your channel. The most inspiring song I have heard in my entire life. It changed me. Absolutely viral; after watching it, I had to show everyone I knew. Devouring his content. I enjoy classical, folk, metal, rock, rap, reggae, bluegrass, and ancient/medieval music....Okay, most of it. This is not "stealing" or "copying" this is weaving the threads of musical history together to make a magnificent tapestry of a performance. "From the broken to the beautiful." Love that. Similar reaction to mine; as in I was so stunned it took a while to even begin to sort the many, many thoughts and feelings. YES apart from the music or video! Who DOES that? The "out of tune" notes seem to be NEW notes; they were intentional, and part of the song. "Perfectly Imperfect?" LOVE Flamenco Guitar, he had me staring VERY soon into the song. RAW, vulnerable, REAL connection. DESERVES EVERY VIEW!

[@CasperLD]

You've hit on a point most miss. Ren doesn't have any producers guiding him. He makes all these musical choices himself. What to keep, what to leave, what to emphasize etc etc..and he's doing it at an extremely high level on top of being a great musician and writer. I think he might be the most gifted musician I've ever seen. A still unknown to the masses artist, up there with the best in my books. My next Ren Recommendation which is a great potential Radio tune is "Humble" ft. Eden Nash.

[@MissMeKate]

I concur!

[@juliecooper-nm7cm]

I concur

[@Avellan20]

I concur

[@johnekare8376]

I concur!

[@nicmcee5707]

I concur

[@docdurdin]

Eric, that was one of the best dissertations I have ever heard as an opinion on Ren and his work. It could not be more succinct a narrative pinpointing the struggle we all go through. A glance of what Lyme disease does to you when left untreated is stunning enough along with the anti-psychotics and pain pills left us a true miracle survivor in Ren. We are blessed to have not only his talent but wisdom beyond his years, a traveler to the other side and back. He truly comes From The Broken To The Beautiful. Great Quote.

[@barefootalien]

Oof... that hit hard. "It wasn't self-destruction; it was self-apathy. I didn't want to hurt myself; I just didn't care." I've not-cared myself almost to death. Lingered there for almost a decade. This time it feels different, as Ren said...

[@videoforge1389]

Someone needs to show this reaction to Ren. This advice to him is particularly excellent.

[@Yazpo]

I'm sure he will see it. I was half expecting him to have replied already.

[@davespicer3647]

He was signed to a label and then parted ways when he became more ill. He is choosing every day to stay independent. "Sick boi" touches on losing oneself in being owned by a label. Signing would be a path to death of creativity. I would never wish that on him.

[@valkyrie1066]

He does! I am amazed at how many of the reactions he has commented on. He is ON TOP of it! So very happy he can see and feel our love...and our PROGRESS due to him!

[@marymeister1554]

Ohh man! When you said your first words after the video: from the broken comes the beautiful I broke in tears (what I always did while hearing ren) but this is the quintessence in two words. Thank you!

[@deb2722]

There are four takes of this performance. Each is a single live recording. I have seen three of them and they each bring something different to the mix. Worth tracking the others down. He is a phenomenon.

[@dmj4966]

Ren is thankfully blowing up for a reason unlike a lit of other viral bombs. He does everything from this to rap rap (Losing It, the Illest of Our Tme, Sick Boi) to raggae (I Shot the Sheriff/zion/hip hop, Bonf Bongo), metal (War Pigs) covers, and genre defying every time

[@jkoll42]

I think you're the first reactor I've heard to comment on the *very* purposeful bending of chords and being off pitch. He can legit sing and play. Some of his stuff is basically free theatre

[@dhaddine5472]

Every last little thing in this video is done with intent. From the chords he uses, to how aggressively he plays, to the vocal inflections, to his posture, to when he chooses to look at the camera/stand up/etc, to the lighting, … you could teach a class on just this one song.

[@ulbuilder]

​@@dhaddine5472 The thing that stands out the most to me is the shadows on the floor. The dark negative shadow on the left talking to the light positive shadow on the right and vice versa. But yea a million purposefully chosen things that all combine into a masterpiece. He blew my mind, I've never seen anything like this. It's performance theater, rap, singing, poetry, therapy, life lessons and so much more wrapped up with a little bow on top for everyone to unwrap and stand in awe at what they uncovered.

[@maggiefollett636]

Yes, a broken voice who stands up in the end and sings!

[@scottw5253]

I almost don't believe it... someone capable of allowing a piece of art to speak to them before speaking to it, and is capable of using a notebook with real paper and knows how to make the letter word things with an old fashioned ink stick! Wow kids it is actually possible to sit still and STFU while someone else speaks allowing them to finish a thought without interrupting. It is actually possible kids. Thank you sir. You have a new subscriber and fan. (you had me at the Pink Floyd Tshirt :D)

[@toniyoung5131]

The Pink Floyd (my era, they released Dark Side, when i was 20) t shirt did it for me too. Then the reaction.

[@sammyd8860]

You have wisdom - earned through your years on the planet. Ren also has wisdom - he learned his earlier than most through his suffering. You are right that Ren shares his with real generosity so that others may learn too. One of the messages he repeats, in interviews and through his songs, is the message that we must lift each other up. You must check out his song Humble - I know it will resonate with you.

[@davidjones4252]

I concur

[@juliecooper-nm7cm]

I concur

[@johnekare8376]

I concur!

[@TheFubz]

nothing like an amazing radio voice to make me listen to the whole intro instead of skipping

[@coreydean6540]

Haha, dear summer child. Ren speaks about his thoughts of the music industry in Sick Boi.

[@psychotictactoe]

Being dropped by Sony when he becomes ill is low by many standards!

[@CarouselExperiment]

@@psychotictactoe Also a blessing for us. His freedom to be able to do what ever he wants, to express himself in ways in which he wouldn't be allowed to if he was handled by a major company.

[@kevinmcnab5670]

​@@psychotictactoe Sony didn't treat him poorly at all.

[@dmj4966]

I havent gotten excited by a new artist in a LONG time, and Ren has me as obsessed as i got when i found Sabaton and Nightwish, or when i was introduced to Pink Floyd

[@REN4eva]

Sir, you are telling my story 👌😊

[@dorkette_chicky]

Fantastic reaction. Thank you. Peace

[@bartonbagnes4605]

The song swings back and forth, from light to dark, like the pendulum he describes. Pure genius.

[@dalemurray1318]

And the more intensely the fights the the dark Ren the darker it gets.

[@maggiefollett636]

Your calmly, unashamedly, academic and intellectual interpretation/breakdown is wonderful! Balance within the "infernal dialogue" is exactly the summary of this masterpiece!

[@davidjones4252]

Yep... For the large majority of us, this was our first time encountering Ren. This guy is brilliant, and I hope you have the opportunity to look at some more of his work, especially some of his busking videos with The Big Push (band he was a part of before leaving for treatment in Canada) and Sam Tompkins (another very talented singer). You've only seen him rap and perform 'Hi Ren'; I cannot wait until you watch something like the 'I Shot the Sherriff/Road to Zion/Hip Hop' mashup with The Big Push. This guy can really do it all, and do it exceptionally well.

[@davidjones4252]

Oh! The songs he's done with Chinchilla are amazing too - Chinchilla is another great artist who's been flying under the radar until recently

[@sciaticsfletcher]

I concur!! ❤

[@davidjones4252]

Here's the link to that I Shot the Sheriff mashup I mentioned: kzbin.info/www/bejne/q4TIdKiIapalm80

[@johnekare8376]

I concur!

[@LeeKennison]

I concur

[@MrXyzzy99]

The cadenza is shockingly good. This is a masterpiece

[@hmonster1XL]

I have watched more then 50 reactions to this video and yours is the best in regards to the message of Hi Ren Nice break down.

[@lillyvanpug]

He is so incredibly talented, eloquent and knows how to reach into you to touch your soul. The honesty and vulnerability he shows in his art is contagious and has rippled throughout comment sections all over KZbin. Pain gravitates towards pain and makes broken people come together to support and uplift each other. We need empathy in the world now more than ever and I find him to be a huge catalyst for change 🖤

[@dannymartin208]

I’m not broken or hurt. I just have empathy, compassion and acknowledge the shear humanity in his art

[@tortienana4701]

Great reaction, one of the best in my opinion. One of the things I find amazing about this song is how long it is, but that it just doesn’t seem like that amount of time has passed! He’s amazing ❤️

[@helenjarvis7755]

Ren's got flow agility, love his tracks. Haven't been this excited about someones music for decades

[@CatchAUAP]

I see what u did there lol. #FlowAgility

[@music2seeconcertphotograph457]

As I am suffering myself from double depression, depersonalization, anxiety disorder and a chronical pain disorder (e.g. 20+ days with headaches / month) for decades by now I feel so connected to Ren and this masterful piece of art he created and gave us. Also my "creative I" can understand his struggles so well. I wish I could hear the hope side stronger or at all. But he gives hope to hear hope some day. My best wishes or you!

[@TanyaQueen182]

I'm a 48 year old who grew up listening to Gangster rap and hair bands lol but I think Ren is probably the most talented person of my lifetime.

[@vintagerealityvr]

Hey I've watched a lot of reactions to this song and yours by far is the most important at least to me

[@wizardflaps]

Mate, the self-deprecation of the ID (and sorry for the loss of your wife) but your compsure and insight is something to behold. It takes something extra to decipher this with a cool head.

[@JensRandolff]

Here is some additional information on Ren's story that I gathered from old newspaper interviews, articles, and Ren's livestreams and posts where he discussed his condition. Ren Erin Gill is a British musician/independent artist; born in Wales on March 29, 1990; he eventually moved to Brighton. Ren pursued a career in music from an early age. In 2009, while studying music performance at Bath Spa University, Ren began to experience health issues and was struggling to attend his lectures. In 2010, he was signed by Sony Records and was working on an album when his health deteriorated to the point where he was unable to continue and subsequently dropped by Sony. Ren's illness often kept him in bed for up to 23 hours daily. Ren was initially misdiagnosed with depression, bipolar disorder, and chronic fatigue syndrome, which led him to experience psychosis and develop PTSD. It would take seven years before a doctor in Belgium finally correctly diagnosed Ren with autoimmunity, Lyme disease, and resulting damage to the brain, organs, joints, and PTSD. Ren eventually underwent stem cell therapy in the United States, which improved his health, but it has not been a cure. Ren is currently in Calgary, Canada for more treatments, including surgeries, and will have to be there for at least six months (Summer of 2023) undergoing IV and other interventions five days a week. Ren recently underwent wisdom tooth removal and cavitation surgery. In addition, his Canadian doctor discovered that Ren also developed a condition called Mast Cell Activation Disorder (MCAD), which has affected the myelin sheath in his brain, his thyroid, adrenals as well as his bones/joints. Now, Ren is receiving additional treatments for this previously undiagnosed condition. Let's keep supporting Ren as he undergoes his treatments. Check out and subscribe to his channel, if you are a content creator, ask your audience to subscribe to Ren. Listen to some of his earlier work, like and comment on his performances, and let's lift Ren's spirits. If you are a believer, pray for him. Ren is an artist with something to say to the world, and his work is important in these troubling times. Someone has finally created a Wikipedia page for Ren, so there is additional information available. Here is the link to Ren’s GoFundMe page to raise money for his current treatment. Ren has exceeded his initial goal. However, his goal was very conservative and did not reflect the added costs of unforeseen surgical procedures, and treatment for additional health issues such as MCAD. www.gofundme.com/f/ren-get-better-from-lyme-disease-and-autoimmunity

[@Rackelhane]

Wow! Eric you are the best..and I am not suprised. You are the REN of reactors. Thank you very much.👍👍👍

[@andrewhuggins9008]

I can't do justice to your superb analysis with a few lines in a comment box so I'll just say respect to you sir! Cap doffed! 😉🤟

[@aimeekeel]

Ren is a genius and he is already making waves. I’m so thankful that so many creators have taken the time to react to this piece of art a brutal baring of his sole. Gives me hope to see so many creators from different walks of life feeling the same emotions connecting to our shared struggle.

[@louisemyles4971]

Best commentary on Hi Ren! And I’ve listened to many. You’ve explained and put into words what it FeeeeLs like first hearing this song. The masterful way he delivered this inner conflict that we can all relate to. And! He is filling that place in many of us (alll ages) hungry for new raw talent. There’s been so much sameness the last years. Intelligent, honest, a poet, a fantastic musician, actor storyteller,…I’m hooked in best possible way. Looking forward to checking out other music you’ve reacted to, and intend to subscribe to wise eloquent you. 😏

[@CosMosArtistry2016]

Brilliant analysis Eric. Ren made it clear that the more we struggle or fight the shadow, the harder it gets and inevitably we fail. It is the bringing together the shadow and the light that allows us to complete ourselves as a human being. I have watched many reactors and the one thing almost all have discovered is how Ren's message impacts them. Yes, Ren talks about psychosis, some think he has a split personality and yet, the message is also about all of us who doubt ourselves and our abilities, our success and our failures. There is a connection for anyone who can accept his message. The light and shadow aren't necessarily good or bad, they are just part of the human experience that you and Ren so beautifully explain. I wish I had 'met' Ren in my teens when I needed this message most. It would have helped with my PTSD and my thoughts of suicide. It would have given me a connection with a kindred soul, a place to be in the world to make sense of what I was experiencing. Many have said that Ren has helped them with their mental health struggles, may many teens, young people, older people discover Ren and take away his message. A mental health professional has stated that Ren could teach him more about the human condition with mental health than what he was traditionally taught. Many are taking Ren to their students to understand the dance of mental illness. For many years, I was a volunteer crisis phone counsellor, mainly with youth in my home country of New Zealand. I mentored new counsellor trainees studying for their counselling/psychotherapy degrees at university and volunteering to get a real world experience. Their academic knowledge was on point, their real world experience was a real challenge. Both are needed and Ren fills the spot here. Thanks for your reaction Eric, I have been waiting for your analysis for a while. Much appreciated, cheers Rich

[@roystevenson9632]

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

[@SeeDaRipper...]

*Thank the stars!* You're the first reactor i've seen that listened to the entire song without pausing it (breaking the flow)...And then broke it down. Kudos that's how it should be done, and because of that, you've earned a sub. Peas.

[@mldkenny]

I have watched Hi Ren hundreds of time so nothing else to add about the wonderful life changing video, but just to say I loved your reaction , so interesting.

[@grandmaimhungry8135]

Thank you, thank you, thank you. You are the only reactor who made mention of the ID, Ego, and Superego. I was feeling like the only one who seen the similarities between them and the song. Enjoyed your in-depth interpretation of Hi Ren.

[@MrXyzzy99]

Oh Eric sorry for your loss and there is a nugget of inspiration in your talk

[@douglasg.9271]

I’ve loved this for 2 months, thank you for helping me understand why I love it. It’s hard to put into words…. But you do a very good job of it.

[@TLY73]

This was an awesome reaction! So glad I found you via your first Ren reaction. From the full version of tales of Jenny, Screech and Violet(brilliant work of art) to the live busking he does with his band The Big Push- they do original songs and also covers like “I Shot the Sheriff/Road to Zion/Hip Hop (excellent) to “War Pigs” …soooo much talent and heart behind what he does. Check some of REN’s work with Chinchilla-doesn’t matter it is ALL worth your while and I think you’ll really dig it. So happy I found a truly wonderful channel to follow and appreciate the work you put into it!

[@chrisord1311]

I concur

[@ClearTheRubble7]

One of the best analyses I've heard! When you said that one of his gifts is his ability to take his personal battle and make it our own experience (badly paraphrased), that hit the nail on the head with me. I've had a similar shadow-vs-light battle going on in my head most of my life, but it was Ren who verbalized it perfectly--and also made me realize that hey, I don't have to take it so damn seriously; I can laugh at it or dance with it instead of fighting it or letting it control me. Subbed!

[@ClearTheRubble7]

Well, maybe I don't want to laugh at my dark side; he can be very vengeful...😧

[@resist2030]

Over the last 3 days, I went on a "reaction to Hi Ren" binge. Watched at least a hundred of them. Yours has been so far hands down the best. It wasn't emotional, but your analysis of the song and the message was spot on. Thank you!

[@nannettefreeman7331]

Two of my favorite parts of "Hi Ren" are how he's picking the guitar during the first staccato vocalization ("oo-oo-oo-oo-oo-oo") but playing the whole chords when he reprises the vocalization at the end of the song, & how he does not play the final note at the end of the song that would "resolve" that guitar part. Like you said, this song is brilliant on so many levels, you could peel back the layers forever & probably never catch all of it. Also, like you said, the lyrics mirror the music, & the visual mirrors the lyrics. They all come together beautifully to give the message even more power. Ren WAS signed to Sony about a decade ago, but abruptly dropped when he fell ill with Lyme's Disease. I don't think he would, or should, sign with another label. He's reaching his audience just fine without one, & c'mon! Do you really think a record label would let him do some of the unconventional things he does, the things that make him a breath of fresh air amidst a sea of soulless, autotuned crap they serve up as "popular music" these days? Nah, man, they would strip him of everything that makes him unique, everything that makes him great, for the sake of keeping it "safe." He's not motivated by money. The only circumstances under which I can imagine him signing to a label would be somewhat akin to the deal Nirvana took, where they signed for much less money compared to other offers on the table at the time, but retained full creative control. Even then, he'd have problems with anyone but himself having ownership over his catalog. He's better off all-around just staying independent. Great analysis! I'm gonna check out some of the other content on your channel. ✌🏼

[@mandyharvey684]

Love to see your input on Rens Tale of Jenny and Screech

[@ifelthope100]

Ren's music is pure nurture for the soul.

[@aaronhommel4615]

Probably one of the more insightful and on point interpretations to this song. THANK you sooo much for helping to try and get this important message out and support this beautiful person.

[@angelaprzybylski1425]

I'm pretty sure after how Sony treated him and others he's worked with, he will continue to be independent.

[@TotalWealth]

Actually, check out his recent interview… he doesn’t feel he was mistreated at all and tries to clear up the rumors. Ren felt badly that he found himself completely unable to finish the project and he and his producer (who he called a fine human) eventually reached a mutual decision-long after the contract was expired-to amicably part ways. He was bedridden for a year then had no priorities other than figuring out what was wrong with him and it sounded excruciating… Years of misdiagnosis and medical gaslighting. Later, he was even allowed to use the unfinished tracks after he started healing. AND… I personally wonder if he’s not way better off independent, but there was no animosity, only (ironically) “guilt” that they put so much time and effort into him and he just couldn’t hold up his end of the deal.

[@lbow09]

Your shirt pulled me in along with Jethro Tull peeking out the back and I subscribed at 'resin covered brain' lol. Ren is amazing! An alien! I haven't ever seen anyone him before.

[@Ella-mj5vg]

Wow! What a wonderful reaction! Thanks so much!

[@vdhmgr]

Out of all the reaction videos of this song I've watched, and it's been many.. someone finally articulated what I've been thinking and more. This song is deep on many levels, I'm glad someone took the time to explain it in a way that's does the song justice and was easy to understand. Thank you

[@dustysaddle5603]

The best review of Hi Ren I’ve watched

[@scramblesish]

It’s really quite astonishing how talented, unique and wise this guy is - best find of the year

[@alloralou4722]

I do love at the very end after Ren starts playing guitar it’s the dark side showcasing his talent, and how he needs to integrate the 2 sides to be more balanced. You had a new take on this and I love it. Thanks, great reaction!

[@crackednut78]

Wow "from the broken comes the beautiful" goosebumps! ❤🙏

[@RonNL70]

This might be one, if not, the best reaction I've seen. Well done sir 👏 👍 👌

[@ksawa1]

That was an impressively eloquent and well dissected breakdown. Got my sub

[@frank7982]

I think his best live busking performances with his band The Big Push are these two medley/mashups from the same set/show. The sound quality, video work, the performances, and the crowd energy are all top notch. I bet you'll agree that if you're going to show only one or two videos of Ren as a rock singer / musician, these are at the very top of the list. I Shot the Sheriff: kzbin.info/www/bejne/q4TIdKiIapalm80 War Pigs: kzbin.info/www/bejne/l6ukdWyBep57gac

[@PeteFindsObscureStuff]

Fantastic breakdown my friend. One of the best I've seen, and I've seen many! Yours is the first, (I think), I've seen that uses Freudian Theory to break it down. Definite sub here! Thanks Eric.

[@payntpot7623]

The Ego and The Id; very Freudian!! Thanks for a well constructed rundown on this song. I wonder that your channel has not been suggested to me earlier by YT........? Ours is not to wonder why, I suppose.

[@Shelleyc1972]

So insightful and well said. I really enjoyed your explaining a topic and then providing living examples that help make a deep concept more tangible. I thought after seeing how long you talked I was going to have to shut it down (because social media has reduced my attention span to less then 8 mins...lol) but I was really engaged. Super helpful, sir!

[@gregcampbell2977]

Awesome response to Ren's genius. Fantastic intellectual breakdown. Thank you.

[@crosswise6971]

Love you for this reaction :) . Bringing Freud into the ring... really great! Waited long for it, lucky that you did that reaction. Thanks!

[@MissMeKate]

I think it's incredible the way he can tell such universal stories in such personal ways. Loved your insights, you unravelled lots of things that most people don't spot and it's great to hear someone with your personal and professional experiences talk about what he's saying and where it could take him. Many of your mesages about accepting pain to find happiness are things he covers in another song, Humble, with Eden Nash. It's got reggae/ska vibes, so is another side again. I'm sure your wife would be very proud of you for finding a way back to caring about yourself again, and for the positive energy you send out into the world.

[@ohTHATaaronbrown]

I really do appreciate how you go about these, and the insights you bring, regardless of what artist you're listening, reacting to and breaking down.

[@lovemercygrace]

from this theatrical performance, the only logical next step is "The Tale of Jenny & Screech" (FULL) 🤯

[@nhoward6035]

I enjoyed your reaction. If the 4 songs you have reviewed are all you have seen of Ren I guarantee he is a better guitar player than you realize, even though you know he is good. And he is a MUCH better singer than you realize with range from the floor to the ceiling and great power.

[@mdh6977]

New to Ren, but what a sweet rabbit-hole I've been introduced to... thanks for this take, very relatable

[@TheWieden]

Thank you for this reaction. Greatings from Germany

[@laurentyvangurewitch3940]

I've waited for your reaction to this song....and was not disappointed. Superb reaction and brilliant analysis chest I've sen!

[@aaronhommel4615]

Thank you soooo much for trying to help get his word out!

[@justinchambers4676]

I just discovered your channel because I've watched a bunch of reactions to this song. I was very interested in hearing your opinions on this as most of the other reactions I've seen have been younger people. And I have to say, your words in this video were just as profound to me as the song itself was. Thank you for sharing your wisdom with some younger people who are still trying to find their own way in life.

[@Marina-Gee]

THANK YOU! So happy you did it finally 🥹😅❤️‍🔥🥰 The flow in everything what Ren does is exceptional, and when he picks up a guitar (or a base) he makes it sing and it becomes a part of the whole instrument/artist/bard/genius(...) called REN 🎶❤️‍🔥🎶 Guided by soul and heart and emotion he then brings the messages with his exceptional storytelling ❤️‍🔥 and I have not enough words or the eloquence to describe how profound and important they are, especially nowadays. And that's why I (and many others I think😅) who are watching the reactions to his art pleaded an eloquent person like you to describe it one more time and spread the word to those who don't listen, perhaps some others will get it then too 🤗 That's the optimistic part of me since the more pessimistic part knows there will always be ignorence in the world 😅 And then my pragmatic/realistic/experienced part comes out and just wishes/hopes that they will get it at some point of their lives since there is always a chance to evolve and broaden the own mindset. That's the way I put these things in words and the way I learned to balance life hoping that I will never stop at least trying to learn and evolve 🙏😅 And for those who even read this whole comment and also like the deep dives into the Reneverse I recommend the reactions of 'Shadow Aeternum', he provides also free lectures like Eric Clark 😁🥰

[@Manul-Pallas]

My condolences for you wife. Thanks for an exhaustive reaction, loved i!

[@yvanb9913]

Gentleman, first visit for me on your site.. I love Ren and I was curious to know your reactions to this piece of art. I must say that you are probably the only "reactor" who did not let himself be suffocated in his feelings and who brilliantly told your tought in front of this masterpiece, I must admit that I appreciated your message as much as that of REN . I enjoy every word you said! now I have to go through your reaction catalog... Keep on

[@BenKanter]

This is the best analysis I’ve seen of this song.

[@clarkforbes561]

Your perspectives are good to hear. Ren my favorite performer, seems to always be very deliberate about every word, note, video move all details. Any thing with his band mates, duets with anyone are good listening, all are talented performers. Chinchilla duets with Ren are the best I have heard. She is a good performer on her own! Keep up the good work, apparently this following your day job.

[@MrXyzzy99]

As an old guy, I feel that you have nailed it.

[@deportedsouls3165]

Don't know if you've seen the clip Ren released, from when he was undiagnosed and thought he would die. Heart-breaking, and those minutes make you feel how awful it was.

[@adam.4487]

Wonderful reaction and review. Thank you for "seeing" Ren as we see him and even more than most of us non musically inclined "see" and "hear" what Ren did here. Amazing! Again thank you. ☺♥

[@bcagz9835]

Love the Animals shirt. Best PF album in my opinion.

[@reviewandreactionvideoswit7200]

Best breakdown on this I’ve seen. Thank you.

[@shannonstradford6518]

Great reaction video .. thank you … I am obsessed with watching hi ren video reactions and I have a few favorites and yours has been added to that list

[@somerando1073]

You haven't done "The Tale of Jenny and Screech" trilogy yet? You really should, it's another masterpiece.

[@oceanlover650]

I love the end seeing him realize his positive side has power, too, and they have to work together, 'a coin with two different sides'. I just found your channel and thoroughly enjoyed your reaction. You hit every aspect of the song, the music, the intelligent lyrics, the struggle, and the emotion that he so easily creates because of his personal experience. There is so much wisdom in your analysis after, very deep and even educational without being at all condescending. I'm sorry to hear about your wife's passing. I lost my husband many years ago and your explanation of how you felt is spot on. Great reaction. Subscribed!

[@iamkerok]

Thank you for sharing your knowledge and experience (personal and academic).

[@jrcash7546]

I really loved your reaction and analysis of this video. One of the best reactions I have seen of this work by Ren to date.

[@marcocardona8911]

From the broken comes the beautiful... very well said....

[@keithkinkade4265]

Just found your channel and I dig your reaction brother! My new hobby is watching Hi Ren Reactions and yours is well over 50th one. I love your breakdown. This hits everybody a little different but it HITS everybody! ✌️❤️‍🔥🤘

[@anniedh600]

I like the phrase that Ren says a lot - “it is what it is”. That acceptance really resonates with me.

[@troytucker3467]

I really want you to know, because you deserve it, you need your own show. We all appreciate you. And you should understand your presence is helping so many people thank you mate. Please don't stop. Alote of people need a little positive reinforcement. Thank you.

[@troytucker3467]

Sorry, actually you have a show, right now. And it's great. Thank you

[@jayjaychappo]

I was just listening to a dharma talk on clinging, non-clinging and equanimity Your chat on finding happiness in the balance, in the middle ground, reminded me of this. Thank you for a fantastic reaction.

[@TrismegistusMx]

This was the most stoic and introspective reaction I've seen. I loved it, but it wasn't what I expected from the channel name. New subscriber.

[@guadalupejazminvilaguillen4786]

"The tale of Jenny and Screech (Full)" - That is all I can tell you. I love your wisdom, I can't wait to see your reaction to that one. And then "Chalk Outlines".