Vocal ANALYSIS of Ren's new single "Murderer"

I love the emotional connection I have with Ren's lyrical mastery and expert delivery leaves me with goosebumps. After reviewing "Hi Ren", I've been on a Ren kick of late, and wanted to hop on his new release "Murderer" as soon as possible!
Join professional opera singer Elizabeth Zharoff, as she listens to Ren performing "Murderer" for the first time.
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Written and Performed by Ren
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I definitely recommend watching the original video without interruptions. Here's the link: • Ren - Murderer (Offici...
Show Ren some love: / @renmakesmusic
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Elizabeth Zharoff is an international opera singer and voice coach, with 3 degrees in voice, opera, and music production. She's performed in 18 languages throughout major venues in Europe, America, and Asia. Currently based somewhere between Los Angeles and Tucson, Arizona, Elizabeth spends her days researching voice, singing, teaching, writing music, and recording TONS. She also plays Diablo and Dungeons & Dragons.
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We have a sister channel: THE SINGING HOLE. Join us there to examine how ordinary creatures create extraordinary sounds. / @thesinginghole
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Copyright Disclaimer Under Section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976, allowance is made for "fair use" for purposes such as criticism, comment, news reporting, teaching, scholarship, and research. Fair use is a use permitted by copyright statute that might otherwise be infringing.
Non-profit, educational, or personal use tips the balance in favor of fair use.
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#ren #Reaction #TheCharismaticVoice
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[@Entropy72]

"Your daughters home, we're home alone, condone the bone and eat it like a toblerone" immediately followed by "This reminds me of when I was young, at church..." Was it just me dying of laughter?

[@thefaboo]

Definitely was an unexpected segue 😅

[@IronRaspberry]

Right?! I caught that too 😆

[@Hi_Chris]

9:44

[@boho_hippychick]

Yep!! Definitely noticed. 😂😂😂

[@johnplaysgames3120]

Same. I immediately started laughing at that moment.

[@icyravens]

This is definitely NOT the song from Ren's catalog that I would have expected Elizabeth to do next, but I'm here for it. 💜 🎉

[@0Onyx13]

Same! I was expecting "How to be me", and then maybe "Sick Boi" or "Illest of our times" or even the new "Suic*de", but not the absolute latest one lol

[@Corvid76]

She's gonna be very busy at the end of the year and most of next year when he starts rolling out his guitar based "singing" songs.

[@LordOfTheYam]

She needs to do Humble or ocean with Eden Nash.

[@tyghe_bright]

Yes. There are so many better examples of his *singing* that would be a better choice... hopefully she'll get to them. I'd especially like to see her take on some of his busking.

[@LorenzoFrausto]

Chill y'all she also has to do what's hot at the moment. This track is poppin for Ren, It's already hit 1mil in 10 days 🤯🤯

[@jamesbrooks7698]

Ren: "Condone the bone and eat it like a toblerone, bitch" Elizabeth: "This reminds me of when I was little, in church" Wait, what?

[@Neuroticum00]

😂🤣

[@Silkytoaster]

Yeah I did a second take when she said that .

[@pamala2112]

🤣🤣🤣🤣

[@stum7396]

😂

[@lizsinger6865]

Ummmmm ?

[@jtuck6065]

I still want to see a vid of Elizabeth interviewing Ren! The way she interviews I think would make it super interesting. He’s such a down to earth guy in all the other interviews I’ve seen with him

[@NightFogFilms]

Maybe, but she would need to watch more Ren videos and know his history a bit more in my opinion. Don't get me wrong, I love her reactions. I just think she doesn't know Ren as well as a lot of us who watch his videos a lot.

[@dropbarracuda]

THIS 100%

[@RickReasonnz]

@@NightFogFilms Eh. Justin Hawkins did an interview with him, and I'd say he had about as much knowledge as Elizabeth does.

[@victorpizzzola8786]

I 84th this motion.

[@cherylwilliams1950]

I'm pretty sure she's already filmed her interview with Ren and we're just waiting for her to post it.

[@jeffwilson3205]

The “murderer” part is a direct tribute to Barrington Levy’s 1993 song, which is very much Raggae

[@HiTekCowboy]

had no idea. thanks for sharing

[@MisterZealot]

I was gonna just say. This is no rap but a very ragga vocal style.

[@derjoo3400]

Thanks

[@johnplaysgames3120]

@@MisterZealot Yeah, you can definitely hear his reggae influences in a lot of his singing, especially the stuff with The Big Push. In his interview with Knox Hill, he mentioned reggae obviously being a big influence but also old R&B and Soul and I love how he brings those sounds into the modern era with his style. On a song like "Murderer," you def get the reggae and I get some of the old R&B/soul vibe on, e.g., the hook to "Money Game."

[@scottw5253]

It's a 1984 release, not 1993

[@robmullins]

I think this is a jab at how his song Su!cide had to be labeled not safe for everyone and how he had to alter the title ... despite how Murderer is an OK topic and doesn't need censorship. It's such a clever way to express the juxtaposition of an important and generally helpful topic being censored vs. a clearly wicked evil topic allowed to run without any disclaimers or censorship. Ren telling truths through music, as always.

[@LoutTsu]

This song, and first part of Suicide were recorded more than a year ago. He's prepared a ton of music and videos so he wouldn't "disappear" once he went into medical treatment in Canada.

[@DenTweed]

@@LoutTsu Which ended up being such a good move. He didn't know at the time how Hi Ren would be received and I doubt he thought it would blow him up to such extent, but having so many things prepared turned out to be quite vital to ride this wave while being in treatment.

[@mindfulmadeline]

Yes, when he says, “not metaphorically lyrical bullets, like actually squeeze the trigger and pull it” like he is saying, “hey are we really saying this is okay, but you can’t title something ‘suicide’

[@ToMPaSHKoV]

Ren tells us he doesn't write hooks for the radio, then he drops this banger on us. Dude is predictably unpredictable.

[@thgeremilrivera-thorsen9556]

It's not his first straight up bop, but sure gets the jub done!

[@drbosommd]

Not sure Radio wants this kind of lyrical content . Love the song but I can’t see mainstream Australian radio playing it - maybe Triple J might play it if they come to there senses but not likely .

[@victorpizzzola8786]

College radio stations are generally not 'bound' [ certainly can be subverted, if so ] by lyrics. Dejvue, I heard Genesis played in Missoula [UM] GO GRIZ!

[@DenTweed]

Considering how they butchered Animal Flow with censorship for the tamest things when it got played on BBC1 Radio I doubt this would get airplay at all...

[@Skittenmeow]

​@@drbosommdmaybe not mainstream, but damn I've heard a lot of Ren played in cars in regional WA. I've been spreading him like contagion 😂

[@MrScousedot]

I hate how long it is between Elizabeth’s Ren videos!! She’s one of the best reactors out there and I just wanna binge watch her seeing every Ren, chinchilla and big push song there is!!

[@jackblack8667]

The look on her face on the "finger" bar will be enjoyable.

[@patriotsfootballplc]

maybe the thumbnail is the face she made when she heard it🤣

[@Parula06]

That was my first thought too!

[@berrytharp1334]

If she throws up the "shocker" hand sign I am done.

[@ygygygyyify]

The genius of that line is that it is actually a legitimately shocking line. So he's not just saying he's shocking, and giving a simile, he's actually proving it in the same line. Finding something shocking to say in today's world is not the easiest either. But honestly I still could have lived happily without that bit of genius.

[@jonjoreynoldsgranner7307]

Ren is very good interviews. I think he'd love to chat with you.he is a very deep thinker but also an open book.

[@TheJirish]

Yesss!

[@LeeannG]

Also, fwiw I think a lot of this hip hop album is mostly him playing a character, and not autobiographical. I hear from a lot of very sweet actors that playing a villain is very fun 😈

[@francesdoll4039]

The victim ends up in the Animal Flow video tied up by the pigman. Ren is i think, playing this character that he created. This is the direction he wants to go. Has a pilot ready to take to Netflix!❤

[@johnjohn37371]

Kind of surprised by this pick, but ok...I would really live to hear her take on Chinchilla's Fingers live..."...🎼🎵Hell hath no fury like a woman scorned🎶..." even a couple dozen listens in, still gives me goosebumps...

[@wachiroski]

Definitely. I'm patiently waiting for that one!

[@heidibaltom8138]

oooh yes i would love that too.

[@bob2shred894]

I'm surprised haven't done it yet

[@salishseamermaid]

Eagerly awaiting this!

[@furygeist]

Srsly, made me sit on my hands to protect my fingers.

[@mrsmith6763]

"murderer" by Barrington Levy......That hook is an homage 🎵💯 #justsayin 😉

[@Slyddur]

Jamaican artist Barrington Levy's song Murderer was definitely an inspiration if not directly sampled in this song.

[@diamond83ish]

You can always tell when the UK is struggling. Our music becomes next level

[@davidberesford7009]

good ..... point!

[@peterdobos1606]

The thing that has always impressed me about Ren is his enunciation. Many people - myself included - find rap to be inaccessible because it can be so hard to parse out the lyrics. Not so with Ren, and I think that's why you see so many comments along the lines of "I don't normally like rap, but...".

[@RickReasonnz]

That's a good point. He's very precise.

[@Dalton325]

I think that’s part of NF and Em’s appeal.

[@victorpizzzola8786]

I so agree. His clarity in pronunciations

[@DenTweed]

Very true, I've been listening to UK music for a long time so i'm bit used to british accents/slang but Ren's enunciation is at a quite high level making him very understandable

[@catsandcrafts171]

Definitely... I honestly have tried to listen to other rap since getting into Ren, but I struggle so much. No matter how fast Ren goes, it's clear.

[@garygreen1782]

Yeah I would have chosen the live performance "for Joe" which I think would have given Elizabeth a more interesting bundle of things to talk about as a singer.

[@Hexenkind1]

Sure she will do that in the future as well. :)

[@garygreen1782]

@@Hexenkind1 hopefully so 👍

[@Dennis-en9qy]

Same! Really looking forward to see her do For Joe. Maybe she chose to see Su!c*de and For Joe in privat since they are pretty heavy.

[@0Onyx13]

True, but she's never analysed him as a rapper, so maybe she wanted to do that, since most of his songs are rap... she knows our boi can sing! And hopefully she'll go through most of his discography, I'd really like to see a dive on "Dominoes", that one makes me tear up each single time even more than Suic*de

[@scoutbane1651]

Yeah 100%. Would be way better for her to react to imo. Even if it's a pretty enjoyable song.

[@JeffPiascik]

I’m really looking forward to you branching off the Ren tree to find Chinchilla and do her live performance of Fingers. As a vocalist, you will lose your mind at her talent. But I wouldn’t hate if you did her other collab with Ren first, How To Be Me (live).

[@mcflyjp]

This!

[@SkaterWillsy]

Didn't she do this with Chris Liepe and that singer reacts, or was that chalk outlines?

[@JeffPiascik]

@@SkaterWillsy It was Chalk Outlines. Chinchilla is good in that. She’s great in How To Be Me, and she’s otherworldly in Fingers.

[@zachhenderson7982]

​@@SkaterWillsyit was chalk outlines. But still great

[@Jason_xofilos]

I concur. Also Blind Eye with Sam plus same song angry parking attendant.

[@ramhaille]

It's an interesting contrast to his [word that seems to be censored by YT] song and this. This is a straight in your face violent song, including the visuals. Is it in anyway censored? Nope. Are there any safeguards around it? Nope. With the previous song both Ren and the reactors had to jump through hoops and finding ways to avoid the word which was talking about mental health and actually helping people. I don't think Ren is in the least violent (even if he mentions the mentally ill part). I think he is showing the contrast in what we are allowed to talk about in the "market place of ideas". Also there is a tendency to equate poor mental health with potentially dangerous person in society at large. Yet at the same time we can't talk about it but violence and blaming it on mental health is totally fine. I don't think 'Murderer' is about violence, it's about hypocracy.

[@lajoyous1568]

I came here for this comment. I knew someone else would be more eloquent than I 😊

[@Silkytoaster]

I don’t think he is playing himself bec in this video his character is in league with the pig masked person - they are not on the same side .

[@Skittenmeow]

💯agree with all of this. His breaking of the 4th wall looking into camera _"actual fucking bullets"_ is even angled with the side of Ren that expresses his darkness in Hi Ren.

[@tb303wpf1]

Man that kid is so talented. It's great to see that level of talent get the recognition it deserves.

[@raintech3253]

That Kid is 33 years old :D But i get it he looks super young :)

[@justintarvid]

Talented 🤣

[@justsomegirliknow]

I think Ren is playing a character in this song and video. He also has some older videos where he seems to be playing a character in this same way. Obviously if we listen to what Ren is saying when he's just on his live streams or even on the 1 mil video he posted - where he's just being himself, he's not this character. To me, I think he's just having fun. It's a different form of expression for him. And I think it's great that he's not just staying in one lane. He's going everywhere he wants to go with his music and I think that's awesome.

[@marktyler3381]

He is absolutely playing a character - could be Screech

[@Lynnie_14]

@marktyler3381 Nah, not Screetch. I think he portrayed screetch in parts of 'Illest of our time' . He's Alex DeLarge, the character he was emulating in Animal Flow. Murderer is the prequel 😉😊

[@Turvok]

funny how she mentions reggae and i'd love to see her react to ren singing "I shot the sheriff / road to zion" with the big push. The one in the red suspenders is superb.

[@12feetup]

It's not odd that she mentions reggae... the hook of this song is literally taken from a big reggae hit in the 90s called Murderer that she has probably heard

[@warmfuzzyfeeling]

I suggested the same before I saw this comment :D Good call to mention the suspenders - that video is simply epic.

[@iamsquatty]

Would love to see you get a tea time interview with ren, that would be amazing! 💜

[@stevenmeyer9674]

That would be a great conversation. Ren is a pretty smart guy, and like another said, a "open book"

[@sharoncarlisle9453]

I would love that too. He has done interviews with a few reactors, so he's definitely not opposed to it.

[@GW-kf1be]

❤❤❤

[@TheCharismaticVoice]

That would be cool! ❤️

[@KatSnow11]

@@TheCharismaticVoice ❤️

[@ianmc8671]

Next suggestion : "For Joe (Live Performance Video)" - completely different but amazing vocalisations and he's playing the piano this time.

[@DebapriyaMaitra]

Liz definitely picked this one on her own! 😂 But I'm here for it cause she gets to hear a proper hip-hop track from Ren and the fact that she jumped on his latest single means she's a proper fan now ❤ Gonna echo the others here and ask for 'How To Be Me' (Live) and busking covers/originals from his band, The Big Push, cause those are more relevant for your channel

[@Brunners90]

Please, please please do as much of his back catalogue as you can

[@peterjack840]

I would say there's no autotune effect there. I think that's just the way Ren's voice bends notes at the end of his phrasing. I remember Aurora saying she doesn't like to use autotune because the notes she likes to sing don't exist in autotune.

[@LeeannG]

Someone posted his IG story from a few years ago when he was writing this and it sounds the same to me

[@kristinekarlson113]

@@LeeannGexactly - his impromptu recording sounds exactly the same. No need for autotune.

[@johnplaysgames3120]

Yeah, I don't hear any autotune on it there. What I'm hearing is Ren sort of bending the note and serving some reggae flavor, which we know (especially from his Big Push stuff) is one of his big influences. In fact, when he sings "Murderer" on the hook, it's a direct reference to Barrington Levy's 1993 reggae song, also called "Murderer." Ren sings it exactly the same way Levy does. So, yeah, I think he's just stylizing, not autotuning.

[@opus28510]

I've heard him do that in some of his street performances and he bends his words to fit the style of the song. I think it's just a natural way he sings, kinda like the cool vibrato at the end of his words.

[@Lo-gains]

Exactly the man needs no effects. Just watched his acoustic version of this song and the way he sings "town" is pretty much a carbon copy of this vid

[@mcflyjp]

Loved the reaction as always. Ren doesn't do Auto Tune. I think he was just going for a blemish in the vocals and sang it. No autotune done. Please please please do How To Be Me (Live) featuring Chinchilla. You will LOVE it and it will open the door for Chinchilla and her massive vocal talent.

[@timmokoo5679]

Has he said he doesn't use auto-tune? That's kind of weird actually

[@johnplaysgames3120]

Yeah, I just commented that I don't hear any auto-tune there. Ren obviously takes a lot of influence from Reggae and I think he was just sort of "bending the note" when he sang "my tow-own" and serving some of that reggae flavor. In fact, when he sings "Murderer" on the hook, it's a direct reference to Barrington Levy's 1993 reggae song, also called "Murderer." Ren sings it exactly the same way that Levy does.

[@mcflyjp]

@@timmokoo5679 he was asked in a live stream once and he said he never uses it for pitch correction. And that if he ever used it it would be for the style of the song. This one is definitely not that style. I commend him for that. Too much pitch correction in music these days.

[@unfilthy]

I was expecting How to be Me to be her next Ren reaction, so I'm still hoping it's on the list

[@dirtwednesday]

@@mcflyjp100%. He definitely uses it, but for effects, and minimally. Less is better. Vocal effects to add a new element to the vocal instrument, not just for shits n giggles.

[@notjim1087]

Glad you mentioned the reggae feel to his enunciation of 'Murderer'. He's paying tribute to the Barrington Levy song.

[@MrMooose2010]

From giggles at him talking about "the shocker" to the lump in the stomach. A full range of emotions.Pretty much standard for a Ren song.✅

[@TheBigburcie]

She just couldn't hear the shocker line without giggling. That was hilarious.

[@janiceN4Nugs]

PLEASE do the acoustic version I think you'd appreciate it even more 🥰☺️

[@maatstaf6399]

I hoped you would do "How to be me" live next of Ren songs.

[@IntiArtDesigns]

Ren's rapping is cool, but if you actually want to see the range and extent of his singing ability, you need to see his videos busking in Brighton (my hometown) with his band, The Big Push, or his colabs with Sam Tompkins. They're something else. You haven't seen anything yet.

[@donaldexley1852]

I also think she would really enjoy his tribute to his friend 'For Joe', it is simply amazing

[@MichaelCRush]

Fun reaction! I really, really, really hope you do "Swan Song" by The Big Push (Ren's band). Lots of singing-singing, and plenty of talent and technique for you to enjoy and break down for us!

[@philk9227]

That is a very good suggestion

[@TheCharismaticVoice]

I'll check it out, thanks!

[@Rickro72]

I have a request...and artist called himself "Dirt Miller" Ren brought this guy to his subscribers attention. He has very good lyrics and and his vocals range is quite unique, I really think you would enjoy and appreciate him alot, ✌️🙏🤙

[@IronRaspberry]

Yes!!!!! Definitely agree with this! I would start with his song “Kansas City” - the one Ren first introduced us to.

[@inuchan74]

He has such an interesting voice!!! I love it

[@GutterBallet]

Or D1, or Blinded By Substance, or Blood In The Water…. You can’t go wrong with any of them. D1 is my favorite for showing off his voice.

[@IronRaspberry]

@@GutterBallet they are all good, definitely. I just personally think “Kansas City” is the best one for new listeners to start with.

[@KatSnow11]

I am with this all the way!! His voice is like nothing I have ever heard, but also familiar at the same time. I can’t really explain it. A-mazing!!!

[@TheFlattyDaddies]

It's probably been suggested, but a reaction to Humble featuring Eden Nash would be incredible! It's impossible to listen to that song and not feel happier and more motivated. Great reaction to this song BTW!

[@pamala2112]

And then Ocean with Eden Nash!

[@TheCharismaticVoice]

Great suggestion! Thanks!

[@Bearlissimo]

The way Ren sings "Murderer" is a direct and very deliberate Homage to Barrington Levy, who also sang a Reggae Song, Murderer... Check that one out too Elizabeth & you'll definitely hear what I'm talking about.

[@Parula06]

Looking forward to this! If I may, suggest you also look into Ren's back catalog, in particular a song called Ready For You. He sings, raps, scats, does spoken word. It's wonderful.

[@Majikal2]

Ready For You is one of my favorites from Ren. Though most are lol.

[@Silkytoaster]

@@Majikal2mine too

[@zeroxavion]

love that she hears / noticed the Regea influences in his singing murderer, as the inspiration for that most likely comes from Barrington Levy's murderer.

[@bradleykratzer740]

While I love Ren's hip hop, I would dig your reaction to Ren and Chinchilla's How To Be Me. So good!

[@TerranSol]

It is reggae, it's from the song 'murder' by Barrington levy 1984. The song became iconic and the hook 'murderer' has been reused by a host of ther artists over the years most notably Beanie man and Damien marley.

[@Kenai2008]

Thanks for doing a more "mainstream" Ren song. The "Murderer" sound is very close to Barrington Levy's "Murderer" sound. I believe Ren is heavily influenced by the Reggae genre, so he pays homage to the genre once in a while. I think this is a hip-hop cultural "flex" song. It is common to have "Battles" in the hip-hop genre, and this song is just Ren flexing his musical hip-hop prowess. Loved your analysis, as always. much love! ❤

[@kitty-81]

I thought the same thing

[@KatSnow11]

I love how much you enjoy Ren!! He is so clever and creative in every aspect of everything he does. I think you will really enjoy The Big Push, the band he was in. All of them wildly talented, and an absolute joy to watch (and hear)! Thanks, Elizabeth!

[@Silkytoaster]

I agree - Swan Song by the Big Push - voices of angels

[@ChrisKingmanKoenig]

Thanks and well done again! Go for Sick Boi! next This one is awesome in its message too. Shout out to all RENegades from all across the Globe!

[@PlutoniumBoss]

The moment at the end where the camera pulls out of the window of the car we'd been moving in is more perfectly executed than a lot of big budget cinematography, and it's probably a super simple pass off to another cameraman while the first one slips out of the other door. The choreography of these videos is always amazing.

[@Lynnie_14]

Nope - Only 1 camera man 😉

[@dropbarracuda]

By the way, the comments you made about Ren's (and your preacher's) cadence: I don't know there's a name for it, but I believe that some very skilled wordsmiths and rappers use it as an additional "flavor" to their flow; it's difficult to pull off well, and when you add in the lyricism & word play, it's an incredibly impressive skill that really draws in the attention.

[@wowplayer7986]

I think it's more fun and playful than interpretated......Ren's killing it with his music, makes him a murderer.

[@kelby2000]

Agree…this one doesn’t feel like social commentary to me.

[@donaldexley1852]

the way he sings the word 'murderer' is a callback to the song of the same name by Barrington Levy (reggae) so you picked that up perfectly!

[@ricksurratt9034]

Thank you I couldn’t remember I’m 62 brain fart 💨

[@DocWat280]

WOW!! This has a Sublime vibe to it. Love it.

[@rexrogers1859]

Thank you, Elizabeth! I love the Ren choices you choose to react to. He embraces the light and dark masterfully in his art and is a wonderful actor as well! Bravo to you !! 😊

[@johnnypasho]

Really glad you pointed out the "Breathe" moment. It's my favourite part of the song. All the build up for the single breath rap into deep breath is just.....breathtaking :D

[@jcdrummerz96]

I hope you react to some of Chinchilla's solo music soon! The 'Fingers (Live)' video and 'Elements' lyrics video are so vocally intricate, it would be great to hear your thoughts on them!

[@kunghenrybowers]

So great to hear you analysing Ren. You're definitely my favorite reactor here on the tubes. Cool that you recognized the reggae vibe of the "murderer" chant. Ren is actually copying the reggae singer Barrington Levy's way of singing that word in his song with the same name. A nice little homage from Ren. I was also really glad to see that you finally got around to Rage Against The Machine a few videos ago. Please, please, please do more of their songs like Bulls On Parade, Sleep Now In The Fire, Down Rodeo... or basically any other of their songs. Greetings from Sweden!

[@TonyMiller423]

I think that Ren set the stage for this darker aspect in "Hi Ren". It's a part of all of us. Those who deny it are suppressing, which often doesn't end well. Ren acknowledges that side, dances with it, but doesn't let it have control. It can be used though to fuel you through the harder parts of life.

[@EarthyBlendPOV]

My fave reactor reacting to Ren again. It’s a darn good day.

[@LiannaBabeli]

I really hope you listen to Ren's much more expanded catalog like Humble featuring Eden Nash, Power, The Money Game series, and anything with Chinchilla as the featured artist. He has such amazing music and range. You continue to give us such incredible insights and even though I've heard this song a dozen times already since release, there's always more to learn! Much love and peace! ^^

[@forestduffe5576]

Rens analysis is so brilliant! Thanks Elizabeth ❤️💯

[@waneemo9067]

As always love your vocal analysis. Yes, Ren's rapping is a mix of singing and rap. I am not a rap person but I really enjoy his rap because of the amazing lyrics but also the way he uses his voice, word play, and beat to emphasis certain things. He does have a strong reggae influence in his music as it is an important part of the music scene in Britain. Please, please react to Chinchilla Fingers live version. It is incredible and shows why she is on the same level, if not better, than many of the super star singers. She has so much control of her powerful voice and expressed emotion with her whole body. So creative!

[@Proud.American58]

I think you need some upbeat ‘happy sounding’ Ren songs. Please check out “Power” and “Humble”(w Eden Nash) as well as “Love Music, Part 1”, “Love Music, Part 2” and “Love Music, Part 3”

[@MarcieWaycaster-bi6rm]

Thank you Elizabeth for introducing me to Ren! I’ve never in my life heard anything that compares. I don’t even know how to describe the delight I take in Ren being able to function, & not only that, but excel in his talents! So amazing to hear Murderer. Not the style of music I typically listen to at all, but it’s so genuine & awesome I adore it!❤️

[@cmecu_seemeseeyou9330]

Ren is one of those artists that come along once in a lifetime. He does not get no where the recognition he deserves. I know you done reaction to some of his songs before. I remember you doing Hi Ren, and Tales of Jenny and Screech. He has so many worthy of reaction.. Money Game, Genesis, Suic!de, Animal Flow, Power, Illest of our Time, The big Push I shot the Sheriff road to zion .. The guy is beynd amazing.. He added more to his one song Suic!de at the end was a piano part and skit he did.. he did that part again but this time with more stuff its called For Joe , the friend he lost.. Such emotion.

[@nancydenis8059]

Ren's melodic act/sing/rap style throws the rapper reactors off so often, it's great to hear it appreciated, thank you!😁💙

[@themojoslide]

Great reaction! You should do Animal flow next as this song Murderer is the prequel to it. You can see what happens to the man Ren Kidnaps 😂 another dark shocker! Ren at his finest. 😎👌

[@jasons2851]

I was surprised to see this reacted to! I am a big fan of his rap. His songs with Sam Tompkins have great vocals (they aren't rap but awesome mashups and original songs, sometimes a little rap mixed in).

[@Almightyrastus]

Ren is so not my usual or historical style of music at all, always been a rocker, but every now and again I think you get an artist that sticks to their style, but appeals to others very easily. I have seen it with groups like Faithless or the Prodigy, both groups that have appealed very well to the rock and metal fans. I am loving Ren's stuff, so well done with good stories to the songs.

[@tylerlove2052]

Definitely not a song I thought you’d react to, but really glad you did! Knew you’d like the beginning, and also wanted to see your reaction to the shocking rhyme 😂 The one takes (this one is close but does have a cut for the car scene at the end) are fantastic and since he hasn’t had money to produce videos it’s worked wonderfully for him! Luke Flegg did the filming for this one. Such a fun song to sing along with, then you think about the title and content 😃 He is just so much fun to listen to!

[@BallisticAero]

As one of my favorite musical analysts, I'm always happy to see you feature Ren. He's currently my favorite artist

[@EightPieceBox]

This might be the catchiest song he's done.

[@richardhuff1256]

Mentioned this one to Chris too but would live to see you do the big push cover of Praise You. All 3 vocalists are amazing and harmonize perfectly.

[@looneybleu3688]

This was actually the first song he did before coming to Canada. Its a prelude to Animal flow. The guy in the trunk is one of his camera crew, Sam. He appears tied up in Animal flow. It's a series that will all come together at the end of the album. Hi Ren was the last song of the album. Very intetesting. He did say that some songs are just made for fun. They aren't always deep.

[@forestduffe5576]

Ren really changed my perspective on mental illness;a fulcrum thats imperative in this world living in.

[@matisan8407]

Ren has made comments around how his song "Suicide" is censored and deprioritized by the algorithm even though it has a positive message and intent and then he drops a song about murder and literally in the song he makes it very clear it's not speaking in metaphors and it doesn't get that treatment and how this highlights that we live in a sick society.

[@johnshea5967]

Interesting to hear you say "there is a reggae feel",check out Rens "Humble",pure reggae!,there is no genre this genius cannot smash!!❤

[@peterdobos1606]

Can we get some huge props for the camera-guy here? Wikkid good work, @LukeFlegg! #LukeFlegg

[@jsims556]

This is was such an unexpected joy! When you paused the vid right after the daughter/Toblerone line and said “this reminds me of church .” I literally said ‘huh?!’ Luckily you elaborated immediately haha

[@iancollins65]

The reason you hear the reggae undertone in the word Murderer is because that particular phrase was actually directly attributed to the song “murderer” by Barrington Levy. I believe that this type of music is heavily influential on REN’s sound.

[@testpattern23]

It's ironic because Ren is one of the most humble and nicest people out there

[@raymondtatton6522]

Hey! So I want to say thank you for your content! I started getting back into music watching your channel, and seeing your love for it reminded me of mine, that I had, somehow, somewhere lost without realizing it, your Hi Ren video was my introduction to Ren, and as with someone with mental heath issues that have lead me down some very dark paths, REN’s music really speaks to me on multiple levels, so thank you for helping me find my love for music again, and a love for new music, never thought that I would like rap.

[@bryanb2852]

He did a acoustic version live that's amazing.

[@NZWozza]

Yay more Ren. I’d make a suggestion, but there are so many layers to his talent that every song will show you something new.

[@Steevie.]

The violence is easier to take from Ren as it’s theatrical rather than drawing on reality

[@msammon1]

Absolutely love that you took this on and gave it an honest and enthusiastic analysis. I hope one day you can arrange an interview with Ren, I think you would connect well with him, his ethos and generosity, all his work open to reactors with no copyright BS and the efforts he has made to support upcoming artists and commentators, a rare talent and a huge heart.

[@Jay-RCIO]

When Ren sings, "Murderer," it is from Barrington Levy's "Murderer". Levy is a reggae dance hall legend; much sampled and referenced.

[@eatrawskin]

Ren's musical story line screams "CONQUER AND THRIVE" despite the "darker" nature of the lyrics. His lyrical genius is very fractal - the lyrics themselves are complex and immersive, but by your second repeat of the song, more subtext and meaning is found between the lines. His lyrics become less jarring the more of his chapters you've listened to and watched.

[@RenRabbitHole]

My favorite reactor reacting to my favorite artist, and it's my birthday 🎉😁 Thanks again Elizabeth!!!

[@Chris-lw6kh]

I found it really interesting that he just put a song out called suicide which is a very important discussion but had so much drama clouding it’s release but you sing a song about murders and actually killing someone and KZbin and news doesn’t say a word about it. The social perspective on what’s taboo is very apparent thanks to his back to back choices here.

[@woodywoodman2319]

You must ask Ren for a sit down at Tea Time! I'd Love to hear the questions I know you'd ask! More on the musicians side of how he does what he does!

[@zachcoleman7441]

I am absolutely loving your responses to Ren, and I love how excited you seem to dive into the structure of rap and hip hop. If I could ask for anything, I'd love to see you react to Money Game by Ren. There's two parts, and it's absolutely amazing. The lyrical structuring, the composition, the video work, it's absolutely incredible and worth every second of multiple listens.

[@annebiebrich9155]

Ren would never, ever use auto tune ! He is just that skilled with his voice !

[@linmonash1244]

Ren is a powerful Social Commentator as well as a uniquely creative and mega-talented Artist. His work is immersive, multi-layered, diverse and VERY Clever. He is never 'preachy'. He leads us directly into the frame of disturbing social ills. He shows us - holds us mesmerised - not as bystanders but as 'Witnesses'! Lets us formulate the Questions while he flies straight to demonstrate the Answers. Just as in his brilliant Trilogy: he doesn't ask; "Why do these terrible things keep happening?" Ren shows us precisely the pathways that lead innocents like Jenny, Screech and Violet into becoming victims and / or perpetrators. HIS question is; "We Do know Why - so why aren't we doing more to stop it?" Every word carries INTENT. When he sings; "It's such a shame" he's spotlighting the habituation and apathy we have developed toward violence. "Wake UP!" He says. Why are we allowing this to become normalised!? We mouth empty platitudes to a news item like this; "Oh what a shame" and then, with relief, allow our attention to be caught up in the next 20 second soundbite and move on in the ceaseless, relentless flow of the 24/7 news cycle. Or divert our discomfort, by clicking away to something 'lighter'. >> In this one, again; he doesn't ask the question; " What makes a Murderer?" Ren simply TELLS us. { This is not the only, but a very common, pathway. ) He says: >> I was born messed up, a drug addicted infant { we know what that likely means in terms of parenting or removal to 'State Care'.} From earliest childhood I was getting into trouble - fighting in my neighbourhood. I'm carving out my territory- don't test me! I have no boundaries, no emotional regulation, I was diagnosed with mental illness. You say I'm mad? Here - let me show you just how insane I can be! Oh, and thanks for the Label' BTW, I'll use it to my advantage. If necessary it will be my 'get-out-of jail- free' card! I'm a sociopath, and have learned how to intimidate others with violence and threats. What I want I will take. I'll have your mother, your daughter, whatever. I boast of my 'throne of bodies and bones'. I'm not a metaphorical threat - I'm an actual threat! "Ratt Tatt Tatt Tatt! Get Back!"

[@jasonstewart3996]

Yes. There is a reggae and ska feel to a lot of Rens music.

[@martinashfield8973]

We need you need to listen to the live acoustic version of this song. It would be good to hear your views on the 2 different versions.

[@essac1]

Ren just released money game part 3, it's incredible, the new "Hi Ren" You should 100% listen to that one next. Seriously Incredible

[@jimmykyuss2297]

Ren is always awesome. As a great Reggae Fan im excited how Ren imitates Barringtons Levys Style with the Word Murderer similar to Barringtons Song also named Murderer

[@BenBallard-hp8sk]

This made me giggle when you dropped it and I saw the post for it on YT. I've listened to it prior to this video, so knew the "finger shocker" bar drop at the start.... There's a couple of things I noticed about Ren's rapping in the past and this video highlighted it more clearly? You noticed something about Ren's melodic pitching as he was coming down the stairs? To my ear it's almost a vocal mimicry of a Hip-hop DJ scratching with a constant tone. There are also a couple of clever intricacies to the video accompaniment to the track also. First with the pig driver? If you look at the interior lights above the rear view mirror, they look VERY much like pig ears when the view is centralised? The shot is then framed so you just see the pig's eyes and the pig ear lights - subconsciously blending one with the other? Secondly - prior to that when Ren turned to camera in car after "lining them up against the wall" and pulling the trigger. As he does so, the camera reacts and jumps back. This tells me that it's NOT a camera, this is not an object that the video is being filmed on- this is another person, along for the ride. The fact it moves so slowly and deliberately puts forward a slight "reluctance" to be there, adding to the tension and the "wrongness" of it all...... ............................... or it could simply be because the cameraman just doesn't want to fall over and bust his head open on some stairs? LOL. I'd love to see your vocal annotation of this track and his pitchings, staccatos and pitch slides - it'd be super interesting! You DEFINITELY need to do an analysis on his band The Big Push with their "I shot the Sherriff/Road to Zion/Hip Hop" medley ( kzbin.info/www/bejne/q4TIdKiIapalm80 ) - you'll understand about the intonation of "Murderer" and how he seems to naturally auto-tune his own voice (yes, I think that was a natural mimicry of the plug in). Then take a look at their cover of War Pigs ( kzbin.info/www/bejne/l6ukdWyBep57gac ) - it's INSANE!

[@CleoHarperReturns]

I really hope Ren watches these videos because Elizabeth's analyses are not only fascinating but they flatter him in the most educated way -- a huge compliment on its own.

[@johnshea5967]

Just wanted to say Thank you!, I've been big fan/supporter of Ren forever!,to have yourself,one of the most influential reactors give Rens artistry your expert analysis,can only help Rens music receive the attention it deserves!! A genuine heart felt THANK YOU ❤

[@HONJAASE]

Ren never pulls any punches. 😊