Vocal Coach reacts to Ren - Hi Ren

[@BethRoars]

Interested to hear what I sound like? I have just realised my first cover on Spotify. Let me know what you think! open.spotify.com/track/6qfvKbg6ukHJOGykx2MARB?si=8a2fa85792b14d15

[@michaelaghmalone-hansen5656]

Ooh, I will definitely give this a listen!

[@willasacco9898]

Ditto

[@philsilverthorn]

Such a classic song. You did it justice.

[@siwlasilva]

Beautiful

[@lee7701]

Just out of interest I had a listen to your Wicked games cover. Sounded very very good to be honest, hope you put more songs out there.

[@scrappypirate2268]

To the zero people who will see this As a music producer I'm surprised there aren't more people talking about the quality of Ren's chords. His more sinister side is played on chords that are completing every other note, it portrays confidence and condemnation. While his more innocent side is accentuated by unstable chords, more reserved and tentative. Absolute genius songcrafting.

[@officialWWM]

I love the way the guitar is just a little out of tune, it just seems to work!

[@candidwings5609]

And what's even crazier, he said in an interview that his music theory is weak, but he just knows how it wants it to sound.... to do all that instinctively 🤯

[@officialWWM]

@@candidwings5609 er, that’s how I do it too. That’s how lot of great musicians do it!

[@lycosa2000]

He's capturing the emotion in the movement. It's not just the lyric, but he is able to lift the the character he's portraying in an absolutely genius way. Chords conveying disfunction. Chords conveying foreboding and something sinister. Fingerpicking hope and honesty. Funny thing is, there's not much out there where I could formulate these sentences and in context they would make sense. It makes sense here. So is it genius that makes him unique or his uniqueness that makes him genius? I don't know, but I've heard nothing like this and have really not much to compare it to than maybe a soundtrack to a movie. So maybe that is the closest thing I could compare his music to. A foley artist who conveys melody and emotion through sound. But that oversimplifies it because I can feel the spirit of Kerouac and a generation of beat poets in his lyrics. It's weaves in and out of his lyrics and it raps and it rhymes all the while painting a brutal truth as great poets often do. So I wonder if he considers himself as such? A guitarist, a beat poet, a rapper, a singer, a songwriter, or all of those things? I don't know, but I'm kind of in awe of his work. It's not often we hear something so unique as to nearly identify it as a new way to experience music. I think he's onto something great.

[@charlesmurray3255]

@@officialWWM Thats nylon strings for ya :)

[@capnmorgan867]

This is essentially live. 4 long takes, then he chose the one that sounded best. Some video editing at the end, and the outre speech was from the 3RD take, apparently. You can see the mic taped to his shoulder, and the guitar is fed directly in back cables. Impressive.

[@deeliciousplum]

Oh? Wonderful! Thanks for the info.

[@Scumbag138]

Everyone keeps saying this, where is this information at? If you really look it seems he did 4 takes and stitched them together to what looks best, there's times the video clips don't match up end to end

[@Myrkish]

@@Scumbag138 There are three tripod cameras. The only parts that's not a single cut are the last bits, from when he stands up and the camera is a hand-held close-up as well as tripod. The information on it was from the cameraman's channel, I believe, he commented on it.

[@davidjames3080]

@@Scumbag138 I think Sam Perry-Falvey (the videographer) has explained it on his social media. They did a number of takes. The music is all from one particular take (difficult to cut and edit a song that is all talking/singing/rapping -whatever you want to call it), but for the video, although it is mostly from one of the takes, they have included shots from other takes and some close up shots to get the best effect. The video has been listed for several awards so they've done something right.

[@xCythex]

The video is stitched at a few times. Namely toward the end while he is standing when it switches from a tripod camera to a hand-held one close to his face. But the audio is from a single take as is -most- of the video which is why his vocals and guitar playing sync up to it so well.

[@testpattern23]

Ren is an amazing rabbit hole to go down...from pure singing to rapping to bard like storytelling...he's very versatile

[@asheland_numismatics]

Very true. 👍

[@JoniMarie85]

Yes! I'm soooo far in the rabbit hole. Have been for few years now. I always come back to Ren ❤

[@joealdrich6919]

Welcome to Ren. I encourage you to stay awhile. He is a musical genius.

[@RockDocNeal]

This isn't just a song, it's a brilliant piece of performance art and I was totally blown away the first time I watched it, not only from his creativity and talent, but because it hit a little too close to home. From the time I was a young kid, I always wanted to become a professional musician as a career, but in my late teens I talked myself out of it due to my long standing self-doubt and chronic low-grade depression. I instead pursued a career in a "safe and stable" profession and I've increasingly regretted that decision as I've gotten older.

[@LeeKennison]

It is never too late. I had several close friends who were excellent musicians as a teenager, and so this intimidated me since I sounded silly when they handed me their guitar. At the age of 50 I decided to really learn to play guitar. I soon followed with drums, piano, and bass guitar. I am now 63 and I can play them all pretty well, particularly the bass guitar which is where I focus most of my time. In today's world there are tons of online resources and KZbin videos to help you to learn. You just have to learn to be consistent and patient with yourself. I also found it helpful to do it for my own pleasure, not in order to impress anyone else.

[@RockDocNeal]

@@LeeKennison Hey Lee, I've continued to play over the years, but as a part-time "hobby", not a full-time profession, which was my original dream. I'm primarily a keyboardist, but I originally started out on drums at ~6 y/o, then piano at 8-9 y/o and I took about 8 years of lessons on both, so if I had to, I could still get by on a drum kit, but I would be very rusty. I'm also a pretty damn good vocalist, if I do say so myself, and I can play a little guitar and bass, but not proficiently (but probably better than many punk guitarists/bassists from the 70's and 80's! 😆). I don't know what I'd do if I couldn't play music.

[@LeeKennison]

​@@RockDocNeal Thanks Neal for the clarification. I should have picked up on your use of the word "professional". I was coming at this more from the angle of playing for your own personal pleasure, which is where I am at, since I have no desire or ambition to do this professionally. As I re-read your post it is clear I missed your framing of the context. I am glad to hear that you at least have been able to find pleasure in playing music part time as a hobby. As a side benefit of this, I have found that I have a much greater understanding of what I listen to that is being performed in many of the pieces of music I listen to today. I can recognize a lot of the various techniques being used.

[@RockDocNeal]

@@LeeKennison Just one more reply....since you said you are primarily focused on bass, I would highly recommend checking out Esperanza Spalding. She's a phenomenal jazz bassist, vocalist and songwriter and her writing has a lot of influences from pop, R&B and soul, so it's more accessible to people who don't listen to a lot of jazz. I'd recommended watching the video of her performing her songs I Know You Know and Smile Like That live in San Sabastian, Spain in 2009.

[@LeeKennison]

@@RockDocNeal Thanks very much for the recommendation, I will take a look. My primary bass instructors have used jazz and jazz standards as a means of teaching functional harmony and walking bass lines. I have also enjoyed jazz in its various forms since the 1960s through the music of my parents when I was a kid. Since I learned to play bass, I have enjoyed playing in multiple genres such as rock, blues, jazz, R&B, soul, Motown, Latin, metal, among others. In some of these the bass has the primary hook that clearly defines the song, while others it plays a functional role in providing a simpler low end of the chord progressions. I enjoy playing both types, from melodic to functional.

[@DavidBrianPaley]

Thanks for the introduction to an amazing artist I was not yet familiar with.

[@ArtistLisaM]

You are in for one hell of a ride, man. Have fun going down the rabbit hole.

[@joshuawiedenbeck6944]

REN is extremely diverse in his musical style. Here are some suggestions based on what kind of song they are: Simular to Hi REN - 1. Chalk Outlines 2. How to Be Me 3. Crutch Pop - 1. Genesis 2. Power 3. Ocean Rap - 1. Losing It 2. Sick Boi 3. Illest of Our Time Old-School - 1. Anything by his band "The Big Push" 2. What you want 3. Crucify Your Culture

[@woodywoodman2319]

Ren has more layers than an onion! For singing... Chaulk Outlines and Hiw to be me... for Master Level Guitar and Storytelling... Jenny and Screech Trilogy (Full Version!) Then there's Rap... Ememim level genious! Then there's Rock/Regae... see his band The Big Push... I shot the sheriff/road to zion/hip hop ... etc...

[@Bleeglesplotch]

​@@woodywoodman2319 I absolutely love Ren, but PLEASE stop trying to compare him to Eminem. No one, and I do mean no one on Earth writes like Eminem can. Eminem has mastered the English language and the bending of words to make things rhyme that no one would ever even think of.

[@woodywoodman2319]

@Bleeglesplotch I agree... and also hate seeing that comparison! Now that I re-read it... I can see why you'd say that! My apologies! Myself... I think he's better! (At 55... I've hated Rap my whole life til finding Tom Macdonald... and Don't personally care for ems Rapping anyway!) Was just in a hurry to type it out while watching it, thinking she'd know who he was! Also... Tom Macdonald is even Better than Em in my opinion! Luckily... I'm allowed to have my own!

[@chefstar72]

I feel that this is one of the most important pieces of this century. Amazing Everytime I see it.

[@philsilverthorn]

Ever since becoming addicted to Ren's music and Ren reactions this has been on my wishlist. It didn't disappoint. You could see the empathy in Beth's face as the struggle unfolded.

[@jeremyanderson9939]

Can’t wait to see you react to the rest of his stuff!! This rabbit hole is nothing short of amazing!!

[@tafinzer]

I'm so glad you watched this. I loved your final reaction after you paused the most. I also enjoyed your reaction throughout. But I had to watch this multiple times before I could even begin to formulate thoughts and feelings about what this art was doing to me. Your pause represents that for me. I can't say how many times i've watched this, but every time I can assure you I am still moved. Some new portion of my own life and soul is exposed. Your acknowledgment of the master artistry of Ren is mine as well. I hope you can see some of his other music, You won't be disappointed, I can assure you. Thank you. ❤️

[@BrandonWestfall]

It's rare to see Beth completely speechless. "I hope I don't cry, I always cry." Ren kicks all of our asses. He's a mad scientist that knows exactly how to connect with your soul. (Even for us soulless gingers)

[@rogerstarkey5390]

(Watch her James Blunt "Monsters" reaction....😭)

[@laserpanda94]

As a ginger I have absolutely no feelings about this

[@WeChallenge]

​@@laserpanda94 yeah and your eyes were just sweating, surely that was no tear you wiped away.

[@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 for unforseen surgical procedures, and treatment for additional health issues such as MCAD. www.gofundme.com/f/ren-get-better-from-lyme-disease-and-autoimmunity

[@CleoCat75]

You are a major force, Jens. I appreciate seeing your hundreds of comments and ADDITIONAL information as you progress and learn about new information; thanks for keeping the community informed! :)

[@larrythegood9529]

As long as you don't need to be on Oprah you can still do your music. Just something that came to mind as I read your comment.

[@ItsReallyJackBlack]

Unparalleled artistry in our time. Circumstances have forced him to do it all and he excelled because he had such total control of his work.

[@bobbyjones7609]

i have been watching a ton of the HI REN reacts....your name makes me have to respond. this song reminds me so much of Tenacious D - TRIBUTE and The Devil Went Down to Georgia.... just seeing your name made me smile after seeing all these videos

[@craigmcnamee]

this is amazing but vocal reaction wise "Chalk Outlines" and "How to be Me" are where it's at. So glad you finally got to this, though. He's amazing.

[@michaeln3044]

I know everyone always starts with the hi Ren for good reason, but I feel like the vocal teacher people are missing the Ren/chinchilla stuff which I think is more in their wheelhouse. Check out their duets chalk outlines and how to be me. Chinchilla actually just hit number 1 on us iTunes with her own song today.

[@clivemortimore8203]

Fully agree, Chalk Outlines is wonderful and in many ways more personal.

[@elevown]

Yup- some of the big ones tend not to ride bandwagons tho and can take a good while to do more reactions. Like Charasmatic voice- she already said she would do more but hasnt yet- im hoping she does some of his duo stuff - but I know she gets all her songs cleared first and that can in some cases take months -so you cant rush them to react to stuff lol.

[@iamlpinthe312]

Truly masterclass !

[@philproffitt8363]

Chinchilla's 'Fingers' Live video is special too.

[@FaerieCastle]

And Crutch with Bibi!

[@johnsonpaul1914]

I love watching reactors that really analyze how the artists voices work, such as you, the Fairy Voice Mother, Charismatic voice, Julia Nilon etc but with this video it always ends up with analysis forgotten and the emotional involvement takes over.

[@roncav8]

For the lyrics and rap analysis check out Knox Hill's awesome reactions. He's so good that Ren actually reacted to one of his reactions.

[@rogerstarkey5390]

Certainly agree FVM "felt it" and Julia grasped most aspects faster than any reactor (maybe?)

[@rogerstarkey5390]

@@roncav8 Have you noticed that many Rappers "get it" faster than some others? Maybe it's their speed of thought?

[@roncav8]

​@@rogerstarkey5390 yes I have a hard time keeping up and cc can't either. I had to listen many times to get it all, mind blowing❤😲

[@henrydenner5448]

I am so with you regarding ALL these mentioned reactors

[@ArtistLisaM]

I've been waiting for you to cover this. Ren is someone I've become a huge fan of in the past few months and I'm always excited to see someone experience his music for the first time. His entire catalog is full of music I think you'd like. I recommend his "Jenny and Screech " trilogy. He really shows off his talents for guitar and storytelling.

[@andrewmitchell1999]

So excited to to see you covering Ren, love your reactions! More Ren please!! Chalk Outlines with Chinchilla is a great example of his vocals, and Chinchilla is outstanding

[@AyJayAreDii]

Finally I have finished my Hi Ren reaction bingo card. As in all my favourite reactors have done this Song. Beth you have been that one last spot for a lil bit 😂

[@suzannesantos86]

Glad to finally see you react to Ren, Beth. Been waiting for all my favourite reactors to get to him. Please keep reacting to Ren. His catalogue is so diverse and so darn refreshing. He’s multitalented in an age of mediocrity. Let’s lift him up so he can let the world see how brightly he burns. Cheers from Australia xx

[@Hexenkind1]

That was a sweet reaction. I knew you would "get" it and will get emotional from it. Thank you so very much!

[@patcow9999]

Lovely reaction Beth, welcome to the Ren rabbit hole! I think the guy is a cast iron genius. Has a wonderful singing voice, as demonstrated in Ren's busking videos, to his beautiful duets with Chinchilla, especially the live Chalk Outlines. The one-take 3 song Jenny/Screech/Violet's tales, watched (full version) is a masterpiece. Then there is the fun live songs with The Big Push etc. Even for an old rocker like me, I have never been this engaged in listening to a breakthrough artist as this one! I hope you get to react to more of him soon!

[@wpp6267]

Emotional pain hurts deeper than broken bones. To love is to heel. We are not our physical bodies. Thus, we must embrace who and what we truly are otherwise life becomes pain. Ren finally understands this as truth.

[@meeDamian]

I’m impressed not only by your knowledge, but also seemingly effortless articulation 👏🏻

[@BrandonWestfall]

You are NOT prepared for Ren. You need to check out his performance of I Shot The Sheriff with his band The Big Push. This performance was essentially done in one single take and IT IS LIVE. They did a few minor cuts toward the end for the close up but that's about it. It took him four tries to get the performance where he wanted it.

[@vickyterry3150]

"Hi Ren" was nominated in four categories at this year's Prague Music Video Awards; he received an Honorable Mention in the Best European Music Video category.

[@adam.4487]

Ren is an astonishing actor as well as a musician. He can switch personalities quickly just like in his trilogy of Jenny, Screech and Violet tales. All one right after the other, granted each one was recorded live at individual places and date/times, but the characters he portrayed made you actually feel he is that person as well as narrator. Ren really is a gifted performer.

[@craigevans8912]

The best song I’ve ever heard. It’s chaotic, it’s raw, it’s fragile, it’s inspiring and the most amazing thing is that it’s honest. So glad I’ve found Ren these past four months, he’s really helping me with my own battles and he doesn’t even know it 🙌

[@philk9227]

Great reaction Beth! Yes we all probably have tears in our eyes, no matter how many times we have heard this. When he sings "I won't retire I'll stand in your fire inspire the meek to be strong" it hits me every time. I hope you explore more of Ren's music, it is a rabbit hole that is full of surprises. He defies genre and never fails to connect to the emotions.

[@gryphon0468]

Amazing song. I don’t think it’s much of an exaggeration to say it changed my life when I first heard it.

[@nathandts3401]

A combination of finishing up a month of diazepam and the monologue at the end changed how I process things. Bad shit is always going to happen, but I'm no longer getting frustrated by not being able to solve the internal struggles.

[@gryphon0468]

@@nathandts3401 it’s a pendulum, an eternal dance.

[@jennifermclaughlin5222]

I just heard him today. I love this guy. He is unique, insightful, and crazy creative. He uses that guitar as if it's part of himself - how he plays it differently to flow with his message. I sound stupid, but I I've never seen anything like what he is doing, and it's inspiring and thoughtful and beautiful. I am just amazed by him.

[@bonnievonbraun6276]

Performance art at its best. Listen to "Chalk Outlines" for more of Ren's singing voice. And for something completely different, The Big Push (Ren and friends) "I shot the Sheriff/ Road to Zion/Hip Hop" live on the street in Brighton.

[@84jdgregory]

He is hands down the best bard that I’ve ever heard. That’s not to sell what he does short. He created one of the best internal struggle songs to ever exist.

[@auracle6184]

The message of this song is such a profound realisation for someone struggling with depression and intrusive thoughts; "if you're eternal and immortal, then so am I."

[@JesusSaves5500]

What do you think he means by.. "I was made by His hand, it's all part of His plan..."?

[@auracle6184]

@@JesusSaves5500 I'm not sure if Ren is Christian, but he does use a lot of Christian symbolism in his lyrics. I don't think that line is about God though, it's about how depression can seem invincible but so can hope.

[@JesusSaves5500]

@@auracle6184 See that's the line that really hit me as a Christian. Its confusing to me for multiple reasons. Ren says he follows no specific religion and doesn't really come off as religious anyway and yet what is the possible interpretation of acknowledging a creator in this way? I was made by His hand. That is a deeply spiritual phrase for us religious folk for obvious reasons. It's all part of His plan that I stand on my own two feet. Those two lines in this song says that Ren believes he was created by someone who has a bigger plan for him. I've been struggling to find a different meaning to that specific part of the song, one that doesnt point to, what seems like to me, a very Christian sentiment. As a Christian myself I would love for this to be the case because finding decent music that glorifies God is very difficult to do, especially when the artistry is on this level but something just doesnt seem right. Even if you look up the lyrics to Hi Ren on Google that part of the song is completely missing, like it wasnt even there. And if you watch reaction videos (which you obviously do) then you'll very quickly realize that absolutely no one acknowledges that part of the song, like it doesnt even exist. The same is also true for the comments. No one ever mentions it or quotes it. Like it's being actively ignored. Sorry for unloading. I've honestly been trying to find anyone who is willing to talk about this with some level of maturity. Sometimes it feels like I'm the only person who has heard that part of the song and frankly, it's a bit maddening lol

[@latebuslewy]

This song has literally broken the interwebs! It's absolutely top of the entire industry. Creative, clever, talented, beautiful, real, powerful and perfect!

[@greenmanalishi9919]

I just started watching this reaction and I already have a comment. "You're going to cry. I promise. We all do."

[@JensRandolff]

I wrote this introduction to Ren 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 10 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, 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 “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," his new release “Bittersweet symphony (The Verve retake),” and his latest release "The Illest Of Our Time," just to name a few. 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,” “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 just released his newest song, “Illest Of Our Time,” on his birthday, March 29.

[@trevorlangston4219]

I don't even come here for the reactions anymore, just to see if Jens is posting.

[@1998TDM]

Thank you. I have a lot of catching up to do!

[@snakelite61]

Thank you for taking the time to do this.

[@JensRandolff]

@@trevorlangston4219 Lol. Now that is funny. Thank you kindly.

[@JensRandolff]

@@1998TDM Be careful; Ren can be addictive. 😉

[@scottlanghorst1483]

I have aired this song on my radio show. You can't stop to make comments, because a person wants to hear the story. Very clever song.

[@JLSaun]

Yours is the best reaction video to this song I have watched. You picked up on things musically that others didn’t and didn’t pause the video trying to speak on aspects you didn’t really understand yet like so many other reactions videos do. Well done.

[@WillyBootleg]

For the past decade, possibly even two, I had almost given up on new music. Usually every generation or so there comes a band or artist that really changes things and does something new and creative. The fact that Ren has released this and had the reception that it has is absolutely wonderful to see!! His former band "The Big Push" as some amazing street performances as well. He's the first artist that I've envied their creativity an innovation in a looong time.

[@davidricks7128]

Ren is therapy for so many from one song he helps so many people open up in ways therapists struggle to do in person

[@jpacheck2]

You are refreshing to watch!

[@aliverbirduponmychest3055]

The lyrics and performance are overwhelming, essentially achieved on his own with an acoustic guitar and two table lamps. But you come away with the impression you have experienced a big production! Wonderful how he can transport us on this journey with so little! Genius

[@darkmaer]

Yay, I was waiting for this one

[@UKmjs]

Love your channel, Beth. I'm so glad you have discovered the exceptionally gifted Ren. You should definitely react to his duets with another independent British artist, Chinchilla. "Chalk Outlines" and "How to Be Me" are outstanding. Also, you will love Chinchilla's "FINGERS Live for HungerTV" performance. It is simply mesmerising.

[@Shacko14]

I get so happy when I find my favourite reactors discovering Ren! He is tremendously talented, and you must go down that rabbit hole! Check out Chalk Outlines and How to Be Me, his collabs with Chinchilla, next!

[@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.

[@wookieenookiee6696]

I am so glad you have gotten the chance to react to this song. Your analysis was spot on and I imagine you will eventually re-watch this more than a few times to process every minute detail. Thank you

[@Runtberg]

Someone half my age is wiser, more artistic and eloquent than I. It's frustrating yet beautiful. The voices in my head are so loud that I feel like people around me hear them. Most of the time, I let people around me hear them. They tell me it ain't healthy. While I agree, that jerk in my head has been fed more than the sweet one. This is true art. Visually, lyrically and emotionally.

[@EsmereldaPea]

I have probably watched two dozen reaction videos to this song. Yours has been the most critically enjoyable. Thank you!

[@alankelsey949]

Its all live , genius or what , the mugger song is awesome as well

[@elenaorujev3494]

No matter the genre, Ren is always genuine, eloquent, and so very clever! Thank you for your reaction to this masterpiece!

[@formalsleek]

I have subscribed! You noticed the 1-2-3 as well change as well! But man, I do love Ren. I have not suffered like this poor man has (thankfully he is on the mend), but I think we all can relate to every one of his songs in some way, and because he is an artist (and unfortunately he has been through such hardship), he is able to produce, direct and create a work of art that will hit home!

[@ivorlongshot]

I'm a Black Metal musician. I saw this video a few weeks back & was absolutely blown away with this performance. Not what I would normally listen to but I'm definitely a fan.

[@RobertMichaelStewart]

I keep watching every reaction to this video that I can find.... Tears every time.... Prayers up Beth!

[@timvanminnebruggen8887]

Really nice to see your honnest reactions to these fragile songs. As an empath and managing four depressions and thinking about suicide it's still hard to watch those songs because they always remind you of the things you keep struggling with. Ren says it's half a life time but it's just your whole life. You learn to accept, manage and live with your vurnerability. I've learned to accept it and I'm making the best of it. I just hope for all those other people struggling that they find someone who can support them. Just listening and being there can be enough to prevent the worst things from happening. Wishing everyone the strengt to keep fighting and to find peace within they're mind!

[@JoRdAn941000]

I’ve been waiting for this reaction since Ren released the song. You didn’t disappoint.

[@annebiebrich9155]

I just listened to your cover of Wicked Game and WOW ! What a beautiful, powerful, emotional performance ! ❤

[@tom7471]

Yes, 'It's going to be okay!' Perfectly put.

[@heatherjames7063]

I agree. Beth when you said,It makes you feel like everything is going to be okay, a huge resounding "Yes!"flew out of my mouth. Ren has a way of making one feel like yeah,everything is going to be just fine ❤

[@mickmcgregor66]

For me, lyrically I think this has to be the greatest song ever written.

[@PbPomper]

True art by an exceptional talented and creative man. Hits so hard.

[@timpowers9142]

It’s strange how I crave for more Ren reactions. What is happening to me? I love when a new reaction comes out and I learn something new like I did from this one. THEN I watched your Wicked Game video and was gobsmacked. You’ve got a new fan from Texas.

[@Gwensberg]

I know I’m a couple months late, but you were the first person I thought of when my cousin sent me his video. I’m absolutely blown away with this performance and need your input. I’m glad you made a video already!

[@alanarturdemitrovfernandes1161]

this is live. it took like 4 takes for him to perform the whole song and make the video.

[@kennethmichael5404]

I have to be honest, I've watch most of the reactions to this song, and to see when it hits someone the same way it hit me, is (to me) the best part of the experience. That's kind of the point though, we are NOT alone. "I suffer, therefore I am....but I will not relent,... and I will learn to ride the waves." This is a universal human experience, the inner dialogue and struggle. This is a masterpiece of performance art, it connects people. It's quite literally IMPORTANT....and unfortunately, much needed in today's world.

[@saulmidgley4113]

Its a one take video, brilliant

[@chuckbradley6887]

Beth you have a good soul and it showed on your face the whole time you were listening to the song. Much love from Texas to you ❤❤❤

[@Adam-rn8gb]

Thanks

[@BethRoars]

Thank you for watching!

[@thetalantonx]

I am so glad you've finally come to this one, in your own time. You're always worth waiting for. Thank you for this reaction!

[@mothermaclean]

Thank you for your reaction I hope you will react to more of his music asgit is so so varied in genre, he canxsing sing rap all great fantastic songs

[@marvelplays2298]

Just randomly found this. It's so powerful wow.!!! Insanely Jones and real. Soo many pll can connect to this. Just amazing video and song.👌

[@darrenw4213]

Just saying if you can relate to this then you know this songs hits. Very very deep this. Ren my man only discovered you about 2 weeks ago and this i can relate to you my man

[@laurentyvangurewitch3940]

I share your tears, as do many others who have found solace in this seminal work. Thank you for sharing your emotions in so relatable a way.

[@alanmcclure9546]

This song almost always gets a tear from me about the time he stands up. As I have always looked at the duality of my own soul, and tried to find balance. Its never easy, nor will it ever be. Now I am getting old, and I at one time was given opportunity to sell my soul, as a musician who was just playing on the street corner like Ren. I did not sell it, but like Ren, paid for it with many years of having to confront this duality. It is to that Loosening of the neuce that was around my neck. We are survivors as human beings. It is with the best pleasure to say, you make me cry just as often as this song in some of your reactions, to make me feel so good to be ALIVE... Namaste!!!

[@dandavison6031]

Thank you Beth for reacting to this. Ive been waiting for you to see this 👍. Hits home doesnt it?. Its one of those songs that makes you just stop in your tracks. A modern day bard, he is so talented with his word play. You shoild check out some of his other stuff and go down the Ren rabbit hole. He has dealt with so much for someone so young x

[@888spudnick]

i love Ren so much but his camera crews work is also just top tier they capture every perfect angle of every story.

[@ericv.4596]

OMG!!! That was amazing. So many emotions through that performance. It feels like a short movie.

[@Harryroberts1975]

I cry every time. His words and music are phenomenal. Thank you for such a great reaction.

[@danielmeola3651]

Yes Beth, this was the reaction i 've been waiting for, thank you. Go for more ren, he is amazing. For you channel i think chalk outlines and how to be me in duet con chinchilla, live versions, will be great. Never dissapointed here, bye.

[@annhelensjostrom9065]

Love you reactions and this is no exception....you are so intelligent with your analysis ❤️ Love your mind

[@Paul-ni5hv]

Beth, you are a wonderful human being. You are an example for people to emulate. I specifically mean your ability to open your mind and heart, allowing yourself to be vulnerable. That is truly a lion's strength. I'm old enough to be your father. So don't take my words as glitter from someone trying to flirt. You're amazing. I could talk music with you for hours. Cheers!

[@Veeliscious]

What a beautiful reaction. I Love what you said after he sang that it has the rhythm of a train, giving it movement forward to the hope- I'd never recognised it that way but can hear it now - that's a lovely addition for me to hear and visualise whenever i listen to this. New sub- I look forward to hearing more Renactions from you, particularly Chalk Outlines (Live), How to be Me (Live) - both featuring Chinchilla- their harmonies are sublime, Blind Eyed with Sam Thomkins (MC studio version would be best for you to dissect), Man's World/Falling - again with Sam Thomkins, and Ren with The Big Push singing I Shot the Sheriff /HIpHop medley

[@--Paul--]

This video and this song have helped me more since first seeing it about 8 hrs ago than the 4 therapists and psychologists I've gone through so far. Thank you for sharing this video and your comments.

[@lillyvanpug]

Our beloved Brighton Bard strikes once more.The modern day minstrel with a mind full of tales is finally getting the recognition he deserves 🖤 Ren is the change we didn't know we needed, the healing help we never got and the positivity we want to spread further to help others 🫶🏻

[@mldkenny]

Such a touching reaction to this masterpiece. So many more Ren out there, please do Chalk outlines with Chinchilla Live it is out of this world.

[@wanderingwestgarth5904]

What a beautiful reaction! fairly sure Ren has caused a lot of happy tears!

[@neotatsel7755]

You definitely need to check out his trilogy: Screeches tale,Jenny’s tale etc. and you should check out The Big Push the band that he used to busk with in Brighton. It’s a pretty incredible rabbit hole lol

[@stranger2Utube]

OMG you kept us waiting for so long! 😀 Finally! Watching it straight away!

[@andrewwright5407]

This is watching it live basically. All one shot. Very talented

[@justintime82jb]

Beautiful music .. masterful passionate guitar playing .. introspective .. reflective .. honest .. pure .. therapy meets artistry of a genius! His raps and flow and cadences are good but this is a masterpiece!

[@stephenlackey5852]

This is art of transcendent beauty and an *important* song. Artists often struggle with imposter syndrome. There’s a movie starring Olivia Munn called “Violet” that rings of this and was a transformative experience for me… just as this song also resonates. As a person who’s never been able to escape imposter syndrome and negative self-talk, *realizing* that I can exert the strength that destructive voice questions-strength that I *know* I have-was sooo important. It takes time to push past the negativity-to make your own voice stronger, but if anyone out there is struggling with this, please please please *know* that you can do it. *Know* that I believe in you… but you don’t need me to-just like you don’t need the shroud of doubt that feels first of protection and then as a prison. You are *stronger* than that voice. You are stronger than you can *possibly* know… until you push back with softness or aggression-your choice.

[@johnnyeproductions]

I am glad that you have found Ren, there are soooo many of us that have been so immensely moved that we go and watch all the reactions to his music. You should really check out the Tale Of Jenny & Screech (Full) his collab with Chinchilla Chalk Outlines, How to be me, Sick Boi, Illest of our time. You will not be disappointed!

[@martinrobinson936]

Emotion, wisdom, Mozart scales on guitar, skilled vocalist, amazing cinematography, this is the perfect song and video.

[@memento7979]

Welcome to the Ren rabbit hole, many of us live here now. Live to witness your reaction to The Tale of Jenny & Screech (& Violet) and Chalk Outlines. Also great video of him with his band The Big Push busking performing I Shot The Sheriff, Road to Zion and Hip Hop.

[@gliebzeit]

Thank you, Beth, for your reaction video to 'Hi Ren'. Yes, the wet stuff came again as I watched along with you. Ren gives such an honest, powerful message in his performance that hopefully assists those in dire need. It actually is a salve for all of us.

[@ChillsHills72]

This was a one take that he liked best , Ren is an incredible story teller, guitar and bass player, classical pianist, rapper, singer in all genres, the most honestly raw and talented artist i've heard or seen since Kurt Cobain, what we all need right now, relatable, incredibly gifted and a very humble man in reality, i suggest you check out the full trilogy Jenny and Screech (one video) and some of his other great works, like Genesis, The Hunger and Insomnia

[@jasonharrison8965]

I love this piece of art. Ren masterfully navigates this inner dialogue. I don't think too many people realize that at the conclusion...there is no conclusion. He never plays the final note. Musically, he builds and builds up to where the ear and the brain are clamoring for that resolution of the melody and chord progression... But it didn't come. He leaves it in suspense, never ending, as symbolically as the inner struggle we all face never truly ends.

[@amandarooney932]

Thanks for your reaction, you pointed out quite a few Ren skills that almost all other reviews missed. What a joy to have a real artist touch so many of us with such talent and humanity. There is one other aspect to Ren, which is astonishing, and that is when you go down the Ren rabbit hole it really is an alternative Universe of near infinite possibility. One keeps scratching one's head & thinking: What can't this guy do?

[@ChazLikesSharpObjects]

Ive watched this video probably 100 times.. it never gets old and it always makes me feel better.. Ren is a genius.. but a genius that we can relate to thru his music