VIKING REACTS | REN - "Hi Ren"

[@dannymartin208]

The Ren rabbit hole is deep. It’s dark. It’s illuminating. It’s scary. It’s embracing. It’s inspirational. It’s soul breaking. And so many more things. Enjoy the journey, it’s quite the ride.

[@jjkehrley]

I couldn't have put it better myself

[@droom700]

If you’ve had an emotion, Ren manages to encapsulate that an express it better than most of us could ever hope to do. Peace and love ❤ Keep it up and we could have a Saint Ren on our hands 😳

[@shaky_dawg]

100%! And I've been in awe since I jumped into it!

[@lesleyd2448]

Well said 💯

[@alc6329]

Please keep going down the Ren rabbit hole.

[@lesleyd2448]

Yes pls

[@debrashrider4062]

Yes the Ren Rabbit Hole is amazing. It has not only enticed me with Ren things, but has led me to other artists, reactors, historians, and countries. I think of them as "pot holes" I have tripped in on my travels.

[@woodywoodman2319]

Again...Jenny and Screech trilogy (Full Version!) Is a MUST DO!! PS... Ren watches the reactors, and comments on them too! Also... he says: If you ever get an automated copy strike... dispute it... he'll make sure you get whitelisted so you can get monetized for his videos!!!

[@sonjarussell7332]

The message finds us when we need it…

[@Elkysium]

Truth!!!

[@lesleyd2448]

Absolutely 👍

[@vieella389]

Discovering Ren was the catalyst that finally got me started on healing my trauma. I am a different person than I was 3 months ago.

[@Elkysium]

@@vieella389 Same here!!! A month for me. I had no clue how many walls I had put up but Hi Ren broke them all down. The tears are finally starting to stop. At least until I listen to the song again, lol.

[@angharaddenby3389]

The guy in the pig mask at the start is Blizzpig (Sean Livesey) from the band Evil Blizzard. That is how he appears on camera/stage. He and Ren are friends. The video was shot in ONE take though it took 4 attempts.

[@drealyn1486]

Great reaction. Ren is 33 now and is still sick, he has Lyme Disease that was misdiagnosed for years where he was told it was all in his head. Meanwhile the Lyme's wreaked havoc on his body, organs and brain. He's a miraculous individual and amazing musician. Please do more Ren.

[@andreadee1567]

You mentioned that Ren is wiser than his age normally should allow. I think that is true. I once played a little peace of theatre at a hospital for children with cancer. They were the most aware audience we’d ever had. They understood everything. They laughed a lot. After we finished, they came to us on stage and asked the best questions. They really cared about the play and its figures because they could relate so well to s.o. who suffers. They were between five and eleven years old and their "dance" had already "soften" so much. I know that a few of them passed away later, but I’m sure that some are still around. Although that took place in 1986, I’ll never forget those wise children. I love the charity idea. If you have connections to Save the children, it is a good idea imo.

[@brianbritton3693]

Do more of what you do ! Your dance embraces others dont forget. Little star, like Viking. Shine bright community.

[@coletedeux]

There is so much TRUTH in his words. Such an old soul that has been here many times and suffered most all this human existance has to offer.

[@ToMPaSHKoV]

Good art makes you talk about the art; great art makes you think about your life.

[@elenaorujev3494]

Ren is amazingly talented, versatile, creative, and eloquent! Please continue to explore his catalog!

[@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; subsequently, his contract with Sony was dissolved. 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

[@terrieb13]

As always, thanks Jens! ☮️❤️😎

[@CryogenicFire]

I could write so much but it would go on for paragraphs, and ain't nobody got time for that nonsense so I will leave it at: Ren really is someone special.

[@douglasg.9271]

I’ve seen this 100+ times, and it still moves me to tears. When you know his struggle, it hits even harder.

[@alleninfinity6730]

Well done Viking, and yes this young man figured it out. We all have our internal conflicts.

[@donald1379]

Ren is a genius.......great reaction thank you for sharing...welcome to the rabbit hole

[@benjaminfallowfield5658]

The Tale of Jenny and Screech saga is a masterpiece

[@xhighone]

This isn't really music. This is performance art that simply connects to our humanity. Sounds cliche', but so few artists achieve this on such a deep level. I don't think Ren knew or expected or planned for this to hit as hard and reach as far as it has. It's just art and imo, as a musician, calling this music does it an injustice. ... this is free performance art and is such a great example of actual genius. Also, imo, having a Patreon isn't you taking our money and isn't a betrayal or anything you should feel guilty about. The Charity idea is amazing, of course.

[@kalijhawk70]

It seems to be a funny thing with REN, people find him when they need him. You probably won’t know this but, if you watch any interviews with or, follow REN on any social media, he constantly talks about lifting others up. It seemed like kismet when you said that at the end of your reaction about donating money and lifting up the channel. It is fitting that you felt that and said it after a REN reaction. I think it is a lovely idea. I found you from your Rammstein reactions but, am so glad you have found REN too. Please , as others have said, continue into wonderland with him. 😊

[@VikingReacts]

Before this reaction... I knew nothing off Ren so I didn't see or hear that. But it sounds like the both of us share a similar mindset :). I've been toying with the idea of linking to a charity but the coincidence is indeed amazing. Ren will surely get more attention!

[@woodywoodman2319]

He's done 3 interviews with reactors! Highly Recommend watching them! The Cats on his Own Level! Humble and unbelievably nice and genuine guy! Again... HIGHLY RECOMMEND Them!!!

[@eevee_themeanie5883]

Ren reaches across space and time and touches your soul. Take care❤

[@1diagram]

There is to us moment when you realize that he isn't just telling his story, he telling your story.

[@Ph4n_t0m]

Viking, thank you. And knowing how that line hit so hard shows us that you suffered, like we have. Quite a few reactors have glossed-over that line and you just know they haven't looked into the eyes of Despair, and heard her wail so strong and close as to turn our bones to dust. But those of us who have, and have come back from that terror, know "the voice that you hear when you loosen the noose on the rope".

[@Aurora-cv5to]

I LOVE your willingness to use your channel for charity. Loved your reaction, thank you. He had misdiagnosed Lyme disease for years - it's left him with organ and brain damage that he continues to fight. He's currently in Canada receiving treatment. In addition to his wisdom, he's genuinely a musical prodigy. He's a self-taught guitarist, and you haven't begun to see what he can do: as a guitarist, as a story teller, as a vocalist, as a lyricist and poet. Jump down the rabbit hole. We'll be there with you. Subscribed. (You may wish to listen to his song Patience, from 2016, before he finally got his Lyme diagnosis. It's stunning.)

[@TheEverydayPoet]

Like HI REN, your reaction was a joy to behold. I appreciate the honor you give the performer(s) by your setup... extending such a generous expanse of screen-space. Similarly, you don't intrude on the voice and visuals with numerous interruptions... and the pauses you do make are pertinent and perceptive. Thank you, Viking, for your own life journey that enhances the value you've given me and other recipients. We're all in this light/dark dance together.

[@nancymunroe3672]

Viking, YOU HAVE HIT THE NAIL ON THE HEAD!!! Thank you for your reaction!!!

[@andymcpandy2128]

Hey Ren fans, it's Joe's birthday today and Ren is raising money for the RNLI (Royal National Lifeboat Institution) an incredibly vital charity that saves lives every day. Please spare a few minutes to read his post, share the appeal and if you can spare a few bucks, consider donating. Thankyou lovely peeps. :)

[@jasonstewart3996]

Bro you said it. I feel like Ren is coming about now because the way the world is. He has been making music for many years but he's just now coming out and getting big. I truly feel that it's happening for him because the world needs him and more like him. And he's so humble and uplifting and all about uplifting others this community of musicians and reactors and watchers/ commenters is growing everyday. There's no doubt in my mind that it's for a reason

[@dreckbaer]

Thx for the great reaction! Got my sub. I hope you will go down the Ren rabbit hole and we will see more reactions to his art.

[@sole129]

Imagine the absurdity of a Viking (of spirit🙂) seriously being moved by the bravery of a young man admitting to struggles. Dont say the world has not moved a bit to something better. I am 50 and I see that we have changed. Thankfully. Thank you for a spot on reaction in my humble opinion.

[@donfatale]

Watching Ren reactions has become a KZbin hobby for many, and this highly engaged band are waiting for the moment that proves whether the reactor is really connecting (many reading this post will know what's coming...) the moment Ren stands up! So yes, a good reaction. (The post production text of your thoughts instead of stopping the video really works.) But what comes next takes your reaction to another level... Giving to charities, rather than patreon! (You got my sub right there.) I spend my semi-retired life and money not just giving and working for charities and community but also working hard to persuade others with surplus money to make it part of their lifestyle. I believe that if you provided a link to a worthy charity with each video many of your viewers would contribute, but please research well, there is a strong resistance against millionaire CEO charities.

[@donfatale]

Here's the problem and why I won't be donating to Save The Children... "The average Save the Children executive compensation is $208,915 a year. The median estimated compensation for executives at Save the Children including base salary and bonus is $206,484, or $99 per hour. At Save the Children, the most compensated executive makes $430,000, annually, and the lowest compensated makes $57,000"

[@donfatale]

These people are already richer than me, yet they expect ME to fund their lavish salaries!

[@VikingReacts]

Yeah, that is absolute something I’m trying to avoid. A charity has to spend it where it is needed. My wife mentioned the Michael J Fox foundation for Parkinson’s research. Somebody else World Kitchen. It’ll take some time to find the right one I guess

[@donfatale]

@@VikingReacts I'm always fundraising for local charities where I know the management don't take salaries. Local homeless, poverty, food provision, abused women's refuges are reliable. I'd love to support more micro charities in Asia.

[@jeffreyaverett1800]

I love the "paying it forward" moment at the end of your post. I think that's an incredible idea. Children are our future, so I can stand with you on your pick. ✌️

[@VikingReacts]

I still haven’t decided as I see many charities with insane salaries for the CEO’s. I’d love to see the most money actually go towards the actual cause and not the pockets of management.

[@Koutouhara]

I immediately connected to Ren and that pain, not for the same reasons, but I've been in a dark place for a while.. and I just sorta have lived there. I've come numb to it. And this song dug deep in me because I struggle with my internal dialogue so much.

[@satyasunshine9737]

Same😢🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏💛☮️

[@grantstephens2555]

One of the best lyrics ever written? "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". WOW

[@pattimann1541]

I really loved your reaction, analysis and emotion - watching you connect with Ren. Ren is connecting millions of people. It has been amazing.

[@AmandaLeighSpitfire]

This is the ONLY introduction to Ren you need. And then the rest is just 🤯🤯🤯

[@RockPowerUSA]

Many of us who are commenting obviously love Ren. And if you want fun, lyrics and no worry copyright then Get your Boogie Back and try some "Losing It" and enjoy that reaction with us too.

[@RockinRonnie111]

I have watched a lot of reaction videos, quite sure this might be one of my favorites! 🤗

[@JensRandolff]

Your intention of using your channel for charity is awesome, and "Save The Children" would be a worthy, non-controversial cause. I am sure many would support your endeavor.

[@michaelneuss7554]

Mate? I NEVER comment on anyone’s reactions but. You have made number 6. Now you are in my top 3 on who I go to and see your perspective. Cheers from Australia. You did it again.

[@cherylmack1260]

I would say you had the most accurate reaction to this as anyone I've ever heard assess this song. Peace and blessings unto you. And Ren has a donation page to help him with the massive amount of medical bills he has.

[@tommieev5589]

Thank you for this reaction. I love the charity idea!

[@markperry222]

What you said about depression returning, and feeling maybe your were not cured. I remember that Winstong Churchill used to talk about being visited by his 'black dog'. And like Ren said, it is a pendulum. I think everybody is prone to depression, it is just some of us deep dive.

[@TeahVickery]

Ren has a mission in life, to help bring hope, love, and compassion back to humanity. Every song he does hits deep, highlighting the flaws in the way the world works. He's an incredible person, he truly believes every word he writes and sings. Look forward to seeing you explore the rest of his discography! ❤

[@sammyd8860]

Ren's story is both tragic and inspiring. In 2010 he was signed by Sony. In the same year he became ill with an undiagnosed disease. His best friend Joe Hughes took his own life. His illness got so bad that he had to stop working on the album he was recording for Sony, and the contract expired, dashing all his childhood dreams of success/stardom etc. For the next 6 years or so, his condition was misdiagnosed and he became seriously ill, believing he would die before his 30s. In 2016 he was correctly diagnosed with Lyme Disease and received stem cell transplants which greatly improved his health. But he is not cured. The years of incorrect treatment have left him with a badly damaged immune system and brain damage. He is currently getting specialised medical treatment in Canada

[@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!

[@laurelhager8495]

It was a pleasure listening to this masterpiece with you. Totally. Get the whole gist of it. Thankyou!

[@paulahardeman6103]

Love this song, I've been going through a lot lately, I guess the Wyrd led me here at this time, today June 5 2023, we put my dad in a nursing home, we no longer had the physical ability to care for him, but on this morning we also found our dog had been attacked and passed from the attack

[@MrNocolon21]

Get ready for Ren... His music will help you with your depression, realizing you aren't alone man. Enjoy. So many styles.

[@alfiethompson7985]

Welcome to the Ren rabbit hole. He has many more one takes for you to react to. He was also part of a band called The Big Push.

[@mldkenny]

I have never ever watched a video as much as this one ( x 100 ) and I still love the powerful message. Brilliant reaction, just subbed as I hope you will do more Ren . Chalk Outlines Live is a great one, but there are seriously over 200 including the band he is in The Big Push and they are amazing. Don't ever miss Chinchilla Fingers Live as you will miss a classic.

[@iamsquatty]

Welcome back! I just discovered this song the other day, very powerful 💜 In case you haven't seen, voiceplay released their cover of seven nation army while you were away. They also will be coming out with a new one soon, and same with geoff! 💜

[@Melly01]

I'm so sorry about the loss of your dog. True dog lovers realize what that means and that you've just lost a member of your family. So I am sorry for your loss. 💔 My go-to comfort song for grief is, "The Dance," by Garth Brooks. I'm guessing it's not your typical musical style, but sometimes comfort comes from unexpected sources. Losing your beloved 4-footed loves can take you to your knees and knock you straight into depression, but I'd never trade away the pain of their loss if it meant I never experienced the joy of their lives. I also suffer from depression and think the thing I took away from this piece the most is that depression will never leave. When we expect it to be gone, thought we won, we feel like a failure when we find out we were wrong and it's back ... or never left completely. So, for me, I've tried to stop thinking it's gone. Sometimes my positive side is leading the dance Ren references. Depression/doubt will always come back to lead again, though, so be gentle with yourself when thaylt happens. As Ren says, soften. Relax. Your positive side will return.

[@nrsvlda70]

New subscriber here… thanks for your great, and thoughtful reaction to REN’s masterpiece. I look forward to your journey down the Ren Rabbit hole.. it’s a fun adventure filled with such variety - you’ll be amazed! I think your decision to support a charity through your channel is amazing… my suggestion would be for you to consider World Kitchen… just a thought!

[@annebiebrich9155]

Losing a fur baby is a pain like no other, a feeling I am very familiar with ! Big hugs !

[@jenifermorgan7328]

You nailed this reaction. I'm glad you're seeing this video when it can help you the most.

[@TheSpeakEasyLounge]

I think that you found this song just at the right time for yourself. Thousands have found him just like this. Nothing is unknown, or unplanned in reality. We just choose when we are ready to hear the message we need.

[@jasonstewart3996]

I'm sorry about the bad things that happened in your life recently. It happens to us all though you might not want to hear that but we are all here for you bro. And you're gonna love going down the Ren rabbit hole

[@tvadakia]

Subbed. I wish you well on your journey through your depression.

[@tmkellison4016]

Yay! I'm so excited to watch someone new experience all the different sides of Ren.

[@laurensharpe5834]

Love that you felt that line was soo amazing; some reactors don’t mention it but it’s so profound and such a bar!

[@VikingReacts]

It is a very profound moment in the storytelling... How can one not recognise it as such ;)

[@kennethmichael5404]

This is the kind of artistry that gives "broken" people hope. Ren, through this performance piece, has become to a lot of people exactly what he stated in the song, "...the voice that you hear when you loosen the noose on the rope". So powerful, so impactful. The song structure itself is incredible. It starts off as a battle between his positive (Angel) and negative (Demon) aspects, the negative then makes an overpowering last ditch effort to reign supreme, tearing free and trying to take control, but ultimately fails as the final act, being the "God" aspect, emerges Triumphant, though still acknowledging and accepting that it will ALWAYS be a battle because we are all "a coin with 2 different sides". It's a beautifully cathartic and raw musical masterpiece. Ren is truly special. Welcome to the Ren rabbit-hole, it's a trip worth taking. This was the 4th take he did and yes, it was done live. Wait until you hear some of his other stuff, especially his storytelling ("The Tale of Jenny & Screech"). You haven't even touched the breadth of this young man's talent yet. The pig character (imo) represents the doctors and therapist who have essentially butchered him for years through their misdiagnosis. It's the system that focuses on peddling more pills than on genuinely trying to help to fix broken/ill people, caring more about profit than individual health. The bastardization of the hippocratic oath. He literally thought he was going insane because he was told repeatedly that the pain and symptoms he was experiencing were all in his head (psychosomatic). He had reached a point where he literally resigned himself to dying before he reached 30. Turns out he had Lyme's disease the whole time and it ran rampant through his system for 10 years, even to the point of causing brain damage. Ironically, if Ren hadn't gone through what he has, would he have ever made the art he has? There's no question that his suffering has shaped his music and now he's finally getting the recognition he undoubtedly deserves. I've said it before, I'll say it again, Ren is special.

[@darthgambo1]

Great Reaction bud.. Ren got Misdiagnosed with Lyme disease for like 7 years and now he has to get treatment weekly.. He goes through bad days and good days.. But each and every song is different.. He is different.. It’s worth going down the rabbit hole.. Hang in there buddy.. You’re not alone.. I’m a new subscriber but I’m here for you As all of Your subscribers

[@Ph4n_t0m]

If I may insert a little correction, probably due to language as I'm sure you know the correct version: Ren has lyme disease and was misdiagnosed with all kinds of other wrong ailments. It's not that he has something else that was incorrectly diagnosed as Lyme disease ;)

[@MalcolmMXTaylor]

A great reaction video!! I think supporting a charity is an amazing idea, and save the children I think most people would agree as they are the future for our species and planet!!!

[@VikingReacts]

Amen to that :)

[@MCP920]

He’s remarkably talented. I’m a fan.

[@JensRandolff]

This was anenjoyable reaction. I am sorry to hear about your loss; I just lost one of my dogs about two months ago. It's never easy. As for Ren, I wrote this introduction when I first discovered him earlier this year, as there wasn’t a Wikipedia entry for people to look him up prior to March 2023. I have posted this info to every “Hi Ren” reaction I have come across since, and I hope it will be of some use to the uninitiated. “Hi Ren” is the song that put Ren on everyone's radar since December; it went viral and has garnered over 13 million views since its debut, but he has been creating great music for more than ten years. Ren’s music videos are generally recorded live, often in a single take, although not necessarily the first take, and from various camera angles. His release, "Sick Boi," is almost another chapter to "Hi Ren." Many of Ren’s songs resonate with people because he addresses struggles that many others face every day. Ren is an independent artist/singer/songwriter/busker from Brighton, UK. He plays multiple instruments (acoustic, electric, and bass guitar, piano, drums), has impressive vocals, is an excellent storyteller, and is quite the philosopher and poet. He is considered by many a modern-day bard; he calls his music “bardcore.” Ren’s earliest recordings on KZbin are from his time in a band called “Trick The Fox,” consisting of Ren and his buddies Charlie and Tommy. Unfortunately, the band performed only briefly due to Ren’s onset of health issues. They are very talented. A fun clip to watch is “The Mash Up.” Ren’s trilogy "The Tale of Jenny/Screech/Violet" has been likened to a Shakespearean tragedy and is a prime example of his genius; it is a master’s class in storytelling and also showcases his guitar skills. The three acts are haunting, and the conclusion will catch you off guard. The trilogy needs to be watched in the order given, as this is the flow of the storyline and is best watched as a whole rather than piecemeal. Ren’s collaborations with Chinchilla (“Chalk Outlines,” “How to Be Me,” “Sexual Healing,” “One Dance/Drunk in Love”) are beautiful and showcase his singing voice. His live music videos are especially impressive. Ren's personal reflections are threaded through many of his songs; "Insomnia," "Depression," “Diazepam," “Penitence,” “Dear God,” “Heretic,” “Dominos,” his "Freckled Angels" album, in particular his song “Fire,” just to name a few, all deserve a listen. His song "Money Game" (Part I & II) is another recommendation, although it is less of a personal song than it is an indictment of greed and the resulting injustices in this world. Ren’s Hip Hop/Rap style songs are all worth checking out if you enjoy this genre; they are pretty amazing. Check out “The Hunger,” “Genesis,” “What You Want,” “Losing it (FISHER rap retake),” “Right Here, Right Now (Fatboy Slim one shot retake),” "Life is Funny," “Love Music (Parts 1, 2, and 3),” “Crucify Your Culture,” “Power,” "Hold On," “Bittersweet symphony (The Verve retake),” his recent release "The Illest Of Our Time," and his latest song “Animal Flow,” both the full production and the live acoustic version. Ren's performances with Sam Tompkins (“Blind Eyed,” “Earned It /Mans World / Falling,” “Walking on the Moon/No Diggity,” “Feeling Good/Trouble So High/Masterblaster (Jammin'),” “Latch,” “Wild Thoughts/Crazy in love (Live Session),” “Same Old Situation (Live, feat. Ren),” “Improvising Around Stevie Wonder,” “What Went Wrong” Part I&II) are definitely a must. Also, his collaborations with Eden Nash (“Humble,” “Ocean”), Bibi (“Crutch,” “Ahiahiaoha”), Molly McKinna (“Penitence”), Orlean ("Jessica"), his former bandmate Romain Axisa (“French Song”), are all great. Last but not least, Ren’s busking sessions with Liv Sangster are awesome. I recently discovered that Ren also recorded a cover of “Can't Help Falling In Love (Elvis Cover),” that is simply beautiful. "The Big Push" (Ren Gill, Gorran Kendall, Romain Axisa, and Glen Chambers) busking sessions, concerts, and live recordings all are amazing and well worth checking out. All but the drummer sing lead vocals at times. Ren, Gorran, and Romain all play multiple instruments. Ren plays acoustic, electric, and bass guitar, piano, and drums. Gorran plays acoustic, electric, bass guitar, and harmonica. Romain plays acoustic, electric, bass guitar, ukulele, and piano. They are each incredibly gifted artists, and their solo work is completely different from each other. Well worth checking out. Their covers of "I Shot the Sheriff/Road to Zion/Hip Hop," "Wade in the Water/Nina Simone/Trouble so Hard," "Watch Out," “War Pigs,” “Roadhouse Blues,” "My Generation," “Paint It Black,” "An Englishman in New York," “Bongo Bong” are awesome. On “These boots are made for walking’/Satisfaction/Everybody,” “Praise You” (Fatboy Slim Cover), “What Kind Of Woman Is This,” all three take a turn singing. The songs "Oh My Woman," “Swan Song,” “Sweet Little Lady," "It's Alright," “Dignity,” and so many others are equally impressive. The band, at least for the time being, performed their last official busking session and gave their last concert in September of last year (2022) due to the fact that Ren was leaving for Canada to undergo specialized medical care and surgeries for his multiple health issues. In anticipation of his stay in Canada, Ren prepared some music ahead of time to be released over the next six months that he expects to be gone. He released “Sick Boi” and “Bittersweet Symphony (The Verve retake),” which is another masterful work. Ren released his song, “Illest Of Our Time,” on his birthday, March 29. His newest release, "Animal Flow," is out now in two versions, a full production music video, and a live, one-take acoustic version. I still fail to understand how Ren's YT channel has less than 1 million subscribers while his videos have garnered millions and millions of views!?! What is wrong with people? I guess it is a sign of our times; this is a "me, me, me" society, and people just want to consume, unwilling to give back even as little as giving a video a "like" and subscribing to an artist's channel.

[@scottwatson9453]

Thanks for your very cool and heartfelt reaction to this perfectly presented Master piece of Ren's smeltered and forged like a Viking's swords mind.

[@brittjannesath2539]

Such strong lyrics 😀👍 And your idea for a charity for Save the children, i think thats awsome. After all the children are so innocent and the most precious we have. Great idea Viking 😀👍

[@satyasunshine9737]

I absolutely relate to Ren!!!!!!!😥😢🙏💛🥰☮️☮️☮️☮️☮️☮️

[@janetclaireSays]

"Hi Ren" is a profound experience. Watching reactions to it is so satisfying because we get to experience it again through another person's eyes and witness them be moved by it. Great reaction!

[@woodywoodman2319]

Bro... You Gotta do his Jenny and Screech trilogy (FULL Version!)!!!! Master Level Guitar and Mindblowing Storytelling at its Best!!!!

[@laurentyvangurewitch3940]

Welcome back, and thank you for a refreshing and personal reaction to Hi, Ren. So much more for you to discover!

[@salishseamermaid]

Ren is one of the most talented artists I know of, and has been through more perhaps than most. Subscribing to follow your Ren discovery. 😊

[@mikmook4781]

Good reaction man. Sorry you're struggling with depression. Me too a lot of the time and I remember those final words hitting me when I first heard it, about not forgetting that we are human beings. What we're experiencing is very human and we shouldn't forget that. I've seen a lot of reactions to this and everyone seems to get it whether they're metalheads, rap fans, K-pop fans or whatever. The guy is speaking truth and a lot of people appreciate that. I was actually thinking how ridiculous it is that this was his breakthtough song for many people (me included). It's 9 minutes long and features a guy in an empty room playing classical guitar. He starts off yodelling? before having an inner battle with himself, and ends with a spoken word monologue. Just seems like a really unlikely song to go viral. Glad that it did. There may be hope for the human race after all.

[@bpiraeus-p3b]

A little something I've put together since I found Ren's music; part person who found hope again, part music lover, part bafflement at the sheer talent of Ren & Friends, so without further ado; Welcome to the RENaissance For Bardcore - check out the 3 part Tale of Jenny & Screech If you want to dive more into the rap side of his catalogue, I'd start with "What You Want" which is a brilliant homage to the Beasties, followed with "Genesis" followed by "Sick Boy" followed by "Illest of Our Time" (this one goes after the previous one so you have some grasp of the meaning) and the trail goes from there For more rock oriented fare follow the breadcrumbs to The Big Push and dive in (I personally suggest Sweet Little Lady, Swan Song, Englishman in New York, ,'I Shot The Sherriff/Road to Zion/Hip Hop', and the cherry on top (my new favorite in this category, others are welcome to disagree but they're wrong :) "Fire" Last but not least, don't be afraid to check down the alleys, Ren has built himself a circle of talented musician friends that will surprise you and make you glad you chose to look for hidden treasure (Hint: *Chinchilla, Eden Nash, Sam Tompkins, and so many more) (Also Humble w/ Eden Nash is just pure young punk/rude boy heaven) *Chinchilla: Take 1 part Christina, 1 part Jessie J, 1 part Rhianna, blend well and pour over your own unique style, served ice cold by the baddest bitch in town (See Fingers (Live), Little Girl Gone (the official video is just *fun*), Elements, One Time, and for fun Terms & Conditions which has an 80s Madonna vibe *Gorran: He's got a pretty amazing list of tunes but the LIVE version of "If' speaks to me *Romain: If you love good guitar, Romain is your guy, but if I had to pick ONE song.. it's him on a Piano - Love Without Feelings, and his newest Turn the Lights Down

[@Tandy_Hard]

I've seen hundreds of Hi Ren reactions and there are precious few that I absolutely love, yours being one of them. Thank you for sharing your reaction, your heart, and your truth with us. Blessings be upon you on your journey toward healing. Thank you for this awesome reaction, luv. Liked, Subscribed, and Notifs 🥰🙏❤

[@WitsEndGirl]

I'm sorry to hear about the loss of your dog. Losing our pets is never easy. I've never seen you react before and I appreciate your enthusiasm. Ren is the boss, I haven't felt so connected with someone else's music since I was a teenager. I hope you do more of his songs, I look forward to seeing more from you. .

[@viracocha03]

You will be impressed with Ren's range and his ability to blend genres. He has so many phenomenal songs with just as great lyricism and music. He is also part of a band called The Big Push that is excellent too. I would highly recommend checking out his back catalogue. Ren is truly a brilliant artist and deserves millions of views. Also, yes, Ren was misdiagnosed for many years and fed a plethora of medications that messed him up for a long time, he finally got the proper diagnosis and is currently up here in Canada getting treatment for the next few months.

[@patrickquinlan3056]

Nice one, Norseman! Jens will be along later with details about Ren. Jens usually beats me to Hi Ren Reactions but today I got here before him. You'll know Jens as he always wears a cowboy hat and knows everything you need to know about Ren. My point is that he is very loyal to Ren. We all are. And if you react this way to more Ren videos more of us loyal Ren devotees will subscribe to you just as I am doing right now. Excellent reaction. What took you so long if you don't mind me asking? Edit: Choose your own charity. Those who can will respond.

[@VikingReacts]

What took me this long is my focus on other specific bands and the fact that I'd never heard of Ren ;). I am curious to see what else he has now...

[@Beatver1iebt]

Well said! After every reaction video to 'Hi Ren,' I'm eagerly waiting for Mr. Randolff and his commentary. I also agree with the review of Norseman. It's a really great video! And I subscribed right away too!🖤❤️

[@anna9072]

This is SO POWERFUL.

[@sammyd8860]

Great reaction - loved that !

[@Erndog67]

This song, although created from Ren's experiences through his eyes, can be transposed to fit anyone. Each person willing to listen to this song can identify with it. Great reaction. I hope you do more of Ren's videos.

[@blahtoausername]

Notice the guitar chords change too for whichever Ren is talking. So much to unpack in this performance, from the guitar intro to the opera elements, they all convey the journey and story. Magical.

[@droom700]

So many people try and make this song about Rens battle with illness, but I think the reason it’s so popular is that most of us have a degree of understanding through personal experience… internal struggles are, as he eludes to in his ending monologue, part of being a human being. For some it’s more of a battle than others, but I think anyone over 30 has experienced this to some extent. Thank you Ren for bringing people together by expressing your feelings in such a relatable way. Peace and love ❤️

[@pinkyndebrain4578]

Ren is what I’ve been waiting for, I can’t explain all the reasons but somehow he’s filling a need, for connecting, for peace, for mental support. An incredibly talented man, enjoy the rabbit hole 🐇🕳️

[@noorieiversen]

I feel you, I have spent a lot of my life in pain and suffering. I wish I didn't, but on the other hand, people who have suffered care about the pain of others, and that creates a deeper empathy and humanity. When we share our kindness and love, we lift each other up without greed or judgement. ❤😊 definitely give to charity. Connect to your local community and find those alone and those in pain and reach out. ❤❤❤

[@CaitlinBlake]

Loved your reaction..please do more Ren!

[@lynette.]

For his storytelling try Jenny and Screeches tale(full). Masterpiece

[@NevynAtAll42]

I recently finished, finally, reading the Wheel of Time series of books, which sharpens the idea of 'harden' and 'soften' quite a bit, through the lens of Rand Al'Thor. I am turning 50 this year, I live in New Zealand, and I have battled depression for most of my life, mostly to a standstill, I may not get better, but I don't get worse. Of course, I cannot get much worse than I am, because I can NOT kill myself, regrettably; I tried, my own body prevented me, refusing to obey my commands, which is extremely frustrating. I am still learning to soften, but this song, coupled with Rand's journey, and other shit in Real Life and in books and movies, has helped. Don't worry about a tear or two, everyone tears up at that point, I know I do, and I have seen countless comments on multiple videos saying the same thing, . Life is what it is, not what we want it to be.

[@898cookie5417gurl]

Watch all of him. He is amazingly diverse. He can rap. Be like an English bard from the 1600s. He can play electric guitar. There is not a thing I've found where I haven't said to myself "Jesus christ is he just amazing at everything???" also does most of his own production with few exceptions. He very well may see this video he loves the reactions.

[@tennebee]

Great reaction man. You done it so good. Keep going with everything you do here on YT =) Greetings from Germany.

[@davie261]

You sir, that was an excellent reaction to this piece of art/video. I like your style, having the video mostly full screen, not stopping to often but enough to give your comments, noticing key parts of the video that many missed and I have watched a few of Ren reactions. Followed.

[@Heretolearn21]

Hi Ren - this is musical art! The van Gogh of music… thank-you for your authentic reaction 😊 to this powerful song.

[@michaelphipps8647]

Ren is 🔥

[@CountryStrongGBR]

This is the first time watching your channel but I absolutely loved how serious you took this song and the absolute focus and engagement you had. There are many many layers to this song and as one that has gone through this, lts a constant battle but I seriously thank you for your honesty and attention to detail. Great great job buddy 👏🙏🙏

[@VikingReacts]

Some songs are just fun and some songs are very serious. This struck me as serious in an instant. The one thing music always does to me is make me feel. In my opinion... there is no point to just sit there and exclamate things like "Amazing" and "wow, so good". I love to see and hear what is actually being said. I may not always get it right but I try ;) So I thank you for the positive comment!

[@raymond2896]

Great reaction Sir👋🙏✌️

[@sidtaylor1161]

I have been more upset when my dog died than when any human i have known has died (and at the age of 61 i have known a few)

[@jeanwyenberg2774]

Excellent reaction Viking. ❤

[@harrygreb8427]

Ps Ren does watch reactor videos and says if you get a copyright claim, appeal it and it will be sorted

[@VikingReacts]

That is always appreciated but even if it doesn't get sorted... I don't mind. Every song or artist I check out is because I want to regardless of views or revenue. Most of my videos make nothing and that is ok. The ones that do make money make sure my kids get a little something extra at the end of the month :).

[@rodb9275]

To see a different side of him, you should do a song with him in his band, The Big Push. "I shot the sheriff / Road to Zion / Hip-Hop" mashup/cover. AMAZING. Also their version of "War Pigs"

[@JerryPaulTreeCreations]

Skol! This was a great reaction. The first time I saw this video, I was absolutely blown away. Since then, I must have watched it hundreds of times, along with the reactors I've watched watching it. I'm 56 years old. As a fan of classic/progressive rock, as well as r+b, folk, big band, metal, jazz, and well, ... just music in general, this was something special to my ears. This demanded my attention as something important should. After seeing this, I had to explore more into who this guy was, and I was not disappointed! I could go on, but I have seen the comments here, and I know you've likely already been made aware of his busking with The Big Push, and his duets with Chinchilla and Sam Tomkins, etc.... All of which, are more than worthy of review. The Big Push reminds me of what Cream, or any of the other "super groups" may have looked like, back in the day, had they been busking on the streets. Anyway, this was long, and I apologize for that. I'm subbed now, and I'm looking forward to seeing more of your reactions. Skol!!! 👍👍👍