Youth Justice Psychotherapist REACTS to first listen of Ren Tale of Jenny, Screech and Violet Full

[@Connection_through_Reaction]

Screech stole Ren's phone and documented some of his life to give some backstory! See that video here kzbin.info/www/bejne/qoibgZagg915j80

[@sianscott8091]

For me, Jenny did become Violet. She stayed quiet and still as her life was taken away. Screech became Stevie, screaming at Jenny as he killed her. What do you think? 🤷‍♀️ Great reaction btw, sorry, should have said that first! ☺

[@stampydragon2739]

These were all recorded live btw also Jenny and screech are 14 years old

[@jayleo2263-vc9ge]

​@@sianscott8091no violet is the mother of screech and jenny

[@sianscott8091]

​@@jayleo2263-vc9ge I know. I was talking about how history and the cycle of violence and abuse continues.

[@buggycaecae]

@@jayleo2263-vc9ge what she meant was jenny inherited her mom's personality of being quiet, even in a state of danger, and screech inherited his dads personality of being violent

[@Psyco913]

Ren has told multiple reactors that if they get copyright claimed they should just challenge the claim and it will be taken care of. He is super supportive of the reactor community that has supported him.

[@Connection_through_Reaction]

That is good to hear. Thanks for sharing.

[@Mike_H76]

***redacted*** Tired of qualifying my right to an opinion for the past 2 weeks.

[@Psyco913]

@@Mike_H76 If you're referring to Black Pegasus, Ren is well aware of what he is doing and has thanked him directly for it. The phrase he used is, "a rising tide lifts all boats." In fact Ren is doing/has done an interview with him that should be coming out soon.

[@tribute1965]

@@Mike_H76 Just an FYI, Ren has agreed to do an interview with Black Pegasus. So I'm guessing his opinion on the might be a bit different than yours.

[@ashscott6068]

That's kinda unfair on Ren though. Maybe he wants to choose who to whitelist and who not to. He's not gonna have time to do it all manually. Dude's gotta make a living too. And he has every right to. Far more right to profit from his own work than anyone who's just reacting to it. In fact they have none whatsoever. If people go around telling everyone that he's just going to let them use all of his material, it puts him in a tough position. 'Cus KZbin doesn't allow you to do that automatically. The only choice it gives you is to automatically divert ad revenue from videos containing your material (IF you happen to have Content ID) to you instead of the uploader. The only other way, is to not monetize your own stuff at all

[@Calmontheoutside]

I believe when Ren ends each tale with “it’s such a shame” is a commentary on how we respond to these tragedies the same way over and over and over again. We keep walking away from the underlying causes.

[@sixjhontongalamar979]

Didn't he got the inspiration from a news of a 14 years old who got shot by the police, and the word of the news caster was "it's such a shame"? Just read that on a couple of comments (edit: on another reaction channels) tho so I have no clue on the authenticity of it.

[@minorindiscretion]

@@sixjhontongalamar979 It was actually a comment by the police officer who made a press announcement on the case that this story is based on. He concluded that it was 'such a shame', which Ren found to be a ridiculous understatement and quotes it ironically in the tales.

[@marcopolo9569]

Just like so many in high level positions who have the power to change this. After every massacre of children they say in unison "sending our thoughts and prayers" . It Just doesn't cut it....

[@nrsvlda70]

Please don’t apologize for being human… you’re representing all of us sitting here at home.. crying, just like you!!

[@joshuawilliams4314]

I generally don’t trust anyone who can watch this without being emotional like the part about abuse reminds me of a girl I like and she won’t get out of a abusive relationship

[@Atilakus]

And thats mostly why we watch these videos. You can relive that experience with another person as we did first time watching. Ren just does this to you. He is briliant

[@anthonydunckel6635]

This is what I came here to say. It is perfectly normal to cry over this

[@Mr.Ekshin]

Jenny's tale is the saddest of all... by the age of 14, she's walking the streets in high heels late at night. Ren doesn't come right out and say it, but yeah... she's a 'pro' by age 14, having walked those same streets "a thousand times". So she ran away from abuse in the foster system by age 11 or 12, and ended up on the streets.

[@thejollysloth5743]

He said it in an interview I think. Also Screeches mate and girlfriend were having a relationship behind his back, which is why neither were there to help him when he needed it.

[@letsart6434]

Thank you for commenting this. I didn't catch this before seeing your comment

[@Sabrewolf369Bayne]

He says Screech is 14 and they are twins so yes Jenny is 14 as well.

[@nataliemarshall7158]

⁠@@Sabrewolf369Baynesadly all three of them are/were children, Violet was only 16, and Jenny and Screetch were 14, most likely having been separated at birth and sadly neither of them had a been placed in a caring foster home. It is heartbreaking that whilst this is just a “tale” for too many it is reality

[@TallinnCity2410]

We also know from research and stats that girls that age usually are involved in prostitution after a rape, e.g. at their own homes, and adopted kids are a bit more vulnerable to it due to obvious reasons. So maybe this is why she wouldn't go home to sleep or try to return as late as she could, literally dragging her feet from walking the streets, the heels, probably malnutrition, abuse etc. So she did escape, similar to Violet. Only she didn't live long enough to get into abusive relationship.

[@thomasgwyn1589]

No one is here to take the mickey out of you bro. Ren is an amazing storyteller. Amazing writer, musician and performer. Welcome to the Ren train.

[@Connection_through_Reaction]

Thanks Thomas

[@alainaseyssel2138]

Couldn't agree more. It's a hallmark of truly good story telling to elicit deep, emotional responses across the board.

[@MultiManderson]

Your comment “this is what sadness looks like,” is the simplest and purest way to express that moment of vulnerability as an observer who struggles with understanding what I feel in moments. I appreciated that simple statement.

[@serenamizuki3960]

Poor lad, when I saw how emotional he was already feeling during Jenny's Tale, I knew Violets tell was going to absolutely crush him. Loved your reaction, so sincere and Ren is so powerful 💜

[@steveingram5245]

Stuart, I've watch countless, I mean countless reactions to REN's Music. I have got to say seeing your reaction was so natural/humane. So good to see your views as a Psychotherapist. I'm 63, I thought that RAP was not for me, but that all changed hearing REN. You, and REN are doing a fantastic job of reaching out to people. I totally appreciate you both

[@Connection_through_Reaction]

Thanks so much for the kind words Steve - they really do mean a lot. I have always taken pride in being transparent, honest and natural with people and I am glad that I come across that way.

[@cinshad8]

Exactly 💯

[@kevinsattler6603]

71 here . Same for me. Everything he does is golden. Peace ✌️

[@captainmorgan999]

💯agree

[@amyfox9659]

Same.. I appreciate you wanting perspective of those treated for mental illness based on a file that had a previous assumption and that was incorrect and never started from a clean record.... "no LABELS".

[@jasonmoccaldi9336]

I'm a 44 year old man who hadn't cried in years. Been through so much hell that I forgot how. Then I found Ren. Jesus! I can't stop watching his videos and the reaction videos. It's a bit comforting to know so many others are affected the same way as I do. I really also enjoy your perspective due to your work experience and we are both fathers of a little girl.

[@Dreamcolored]

Indeed! I feel this!

[@skunkworksu7638]

Rens music has brought out so much emotion from all generations . Never seen so many strangers cry because of songs from one artist .

[@k_WESTSIDE_AMERICAN]

💯👍

[@joli3ma3]

This!

[@ThisCharminManc]

One of my favourite lines from my favourite band is.. “It’s so easy to laugh, It’s so easy to hate, It takes strength to be gentle & kind” You were right to take your apology away 👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼

[@Connection_through_Reaction]

Thanks DR81. Its funny how quick we are to try and hide away or not show our emotions, especially given what my job is right. But you are right, there is nothing wrong in showing emotion!

[@tizianasassu]

A Smiths' fan, what a pleasure, a big hug, ❤❤❤❤❤

[@amandahallett2279]

Morrissey ❤❤

[@wwdudley]

Thank you for not cutting out your raw and emotional reaction (and for taking your apology back - I was going to say something about it). Your empathy was so clear throughout the Tales, and seeing you relate it to both your personal and professional lives was so moving. It's a real testament to Ren's talent that he can deliver such a tragic story in a way that draws you in and keeps you engaged, no matter how uncomfortable the topic.

[@supergiangibar]

Usually when you listen to songs several times or watch emotional videos the emotions become milder. I don't understand why when I watch Ren's videos (and I've seen them dozens of times and video reactions) I have the exact same emotions. His ability to drag you into the narrative leads you to react as if it were the first time. I know Violet is Jenny and Scretech's mom, but every time it surprises and make me emotional. Great reaction

[@ClearTheRubble7]

Same with me. It's been two months since I first saw Hi Ren, my introduction to Ren, and even that song still blows me away.

[@wexfordgirl1]

I think we are all having the same experience. No matter age or gender we are experiencing something totally unique.

[@n4lgaming772]

IKR. I watch these reactions because I KNOW I’ll have nearly the same reaction I did the first time

[@Johnknowsstuff]

It takes a real man to show his emotions so openly. The more we see it, the more it helps others to open up. This is a raw subject performed by one the most important musicians to emerge from the UK in ages. Ren has such a depth to his skill, his brilliance. Look at the different age groups that are being exposed to him, it's amazing. Knowing Ren's background with his health issues and misdiagnosed symptoms, from his pain comes an awareness not seen in 'rappers' that claim to echo their lives.

[@ArchersApothecary]

Sir, dont ever apologise for feeling your feelings. Every time I hear this trilogy I tear up. Its a harrowing tale and it does happen. The work you do is vitally important. Thank you for what you do.

[@MissMeKate]

I have watched so many reactions to this, and I think you are the first to ask why *Screech* is out so late at night at his age. People are quick to acknowledge Jenny's vulnerability but seem to miss the fact that Screech is a child, alone in the streets of London at night. I mentioned in a comment to your friend Dr Nick that the thing that I feel ties all these together is that none of the trio ever felt safe. It's why he had the knife and wasn't at home, Jenny was nervously walking the streets alone (a sx worker?), and Violet had been abused all her life. They were all scared, in their own ways, and found no sanctuary. There's a video of Instagram Stories where Ren gives some background to Screech's life. They were shorts filmed in character, as if Screech had stolen Ren's phone and was using it to post on social media. Little glimpses into the life of a troubled boy, looking for a way out. They all wanted to escape.

[@Connection_through_Reaction]

Thanks for the comment MissMeKate. I think my job defaults me now to a position that in youth justice everyone are seen as children. I wasn't always that way though, it was really when I started working in this area that i had a bit of a shift.

[@cherylwilson8743]

I took it that Jenny and Screech are twins since Violet had babies and Ren says twins aligned... a girl named Jenny, a boy named Screech. So in that case, Jenny was also a child.

[@MissMeKate]

@@cherylwilson8743 Yes, they were both 14. Which is why there's been queries about why she was out so late, alone, in high heels, on streets she had "walked ten thousand times before". Having been through the care system makes girls much more vulnerable to exploitation, sadly. They were both vulnerable children, but people seem to forget that sometimes with Screech as soon as he displays violent behaviour. He is as much a victim of the generational abuse as Jenny and their mother, Violet, but because he displays traits similar to those of his abusive father, Stevie, some people don't consider how fractured and painful his start in life was, too.

[@cherylwilson8743]

@@MissMeKate I think my biggest thing is, no reactors or people in comments acknowledge the fact Jenny was also only 14. Yes, I'm well aware of the system and how it works, I was in it for years.

[@MissMeKate]

@@cherylwilson8743 I've seen several talk about Jenny being 14 and Violet leaving home at 16, but few seem to think about Screech being vulnerable in the same way. Everyone seems to pull very different threads out of the tales, don't they? Which is Ren's intention, I'm sure.

[@sarahcp6117]

I'm going to be another voice saying "Thank you!!" for taking back your apology. This piece is so powerful, in part, because it reaches into all of us, pulls out the human empathy, and drags it into the shadows of generational and developmental trauma. I have loved watching reactions to this *because* of how the responses are universally human. We all have a shared heart and the world would be a better place if we let it show more often.

[@Connection_through_Reaction]

Thanks Sarah for taking the time comment.

[@MrNiccholas]

Such a human reaction, thank you for talking back your apology for showing emotions. Ive watched a lot of reaction and heard Ren comment on this trilogy. A few things that are often missed on the initial watch. Jenny and Screech are twins. Both born just before Violet's death in 2005. Jenny is a "Lady of the Night" (prostitute) as at 14 she is walking alone at night as she had done 100s of times before. Screech's Girl friend is having an affair with Patrick Screech's best friend. Thats why he wasn't home and Screech puts it all together when he calls his girlfriend and she doesn't want him to come over. This is not easy to pick up from just these songs, but the series of Instagram posts Ren did before the release of these songs makes it a lot clearer. Jenny is just like her mother, and Screech is just like his father. Jenny and Violet freeze up under pressure, Screech and his father both explode with violence.

[@chadUCSD]

Also, to add to that explanation. Violet moving out of home into a welfare funded flat at 16 means she was already pregnant when she left home, before she met Stevie when she was working at Tesco. Which means that Violets own father was the father of Jenny and Screech. They were children of incest. You can only get a council flat n welfare at 16 in the UK if your already pregnant, otherwise you need to be 18 to qualify for both. So yeah their children of incest.

[@jameslangridge1674]

I binge watch Ren reactions to relax, but the 1st 50-60 times, all I could do was watch him perform. A testament to his skill to captivate an audience. And after listening to it so many times, it hits just as hard, almost every time. I am incredibly skeptical of those reactors that do not express any emotions at this piece art. It makes me think they have either never experienced life to its fullest extent (the pendulum of light and dark), or are not genuinely watching it for the 1st time. So far, it seems that people with life or work experience, (be it good or bad or both), or who tend toward the creative aspects/side of life, are impacted harder initially, by his music. Just my 2 cents. Your reaction was relatable and authentic. Just like Ren's music.

[@LadyGnomeofthewoods]

Don't apologize. You deal with children who may have similar experiences, so you can relate on a personal level. Then you have Ren who is acting and singing while telling these tragic stories in such a real way. It is great that his songs have become a platform to discuss serious topics.

[@danettesoukup7395]

Thanks for this reaction. It means so much that you were honest and direct whilst discussing such sensitive and brutal topics. And thanks for the work you do in life and here on this platform. I appreciated your thoughtful response. I was looking forward to your thoughts on this and of course, you did not disappoint.

[@Connection_through_Reaction]

Thanks for the comment Danette, glad you enjoyed it and gave it the time for a watch. I feel like this is one of those topics that is really important, impacts a lot of our lives yet flyes under the radar a lot of the time.

[@jazzjasmin]

Please don’t ever apologize for having the feels. It’s good to see others deal with the sadness. Yeah, glad you bring it up later.

[@tyghe_bright]

We love seeing this kind of real, empathetic response. It helps us feel less alone! Ren's insight, empathy, and compassion are remarkable. Especially his portrayal of Screech.

[@tyghe_bright]

Also--another musician you might like reacting to, who deals with mental health issues in his songs, is NF.

[@Connection_through_Reaction]

Thanks for the recommendation. I will check out NF.

[@Aurora-cv5to]

The first time I watched this I couldn't watch again for 2 weeks. I watch now, preferably with good reactors, someone I know will get it... and I still cry every time. No apologies needed. Ren is a master storyteller - it's unbelievably well done. Already subscribed from your last Ren reaction... And... what I'm generally hearing when I do listen to this again - in the reactions and comments people are discussing domestic violence, something that is rare. And that's important. Ren tells the truth about the world, and that's always the first step towards change.

[@deborahlester4018]

I couldn't finish it the first time. Came back days later. Let it perc. Dragged some old stuff into the light. Put it back. Watched again. Rethought it all. Repeat. Lol, I may work through some stuff. Which is...amazing.

[@Parula06]

Thank you for your reaction to this. It was both thoughtful and authentic. I cried with you. When I first watched this some months back, I had such a visceral reaction to Violet's Tale that I couldn't revisit this trilogy for a while. I still get a powerful frisson every time Ren sings "she never stood a chance" and it reverberates up into the dark stairwell. The violence and intergenerational trauma and the system that fails needy children over and over is heartbreaking. Boys like Screech become filled with uncontrollable rage and project it outward, while girls like Jenny turn in on themselves, trying to survive by being still and quiet and hopefully not drawing attention. While I never had the horrific life depicted in Jenny's tale, I was frozen in existential fear like that myself for some years; I know it well. Jenny was hooking, yes. How do such cast-off children make their way in the world? Any way they can. To me, the solution to unloved children is to love them. Any system set up to help them needs to both intervene meaningfully earlier in their tragedy, and to make its prime mission to foster positive, nurturing personal environments for these kids, not parking them somewhere "safe" until they're of age. I know how difficult doing such personal work in a huge institutional system must be, and I know that there are thousands of caring people in the current system doing their very best. But it seems to me that the machine becomes consumed with tracking case numbers and justifying itself and obtaining quantifiable results for PR, as big institutional systems do, and the prime mission gets subsumed. I'm in the US and this is how it seems here, and I'm guessing it's not that different in the UK. I don't have a fix for this. But lovingkindness is ultimately the only answer I know.

[@NordicBlackout67]

Every time I hear this trilogy of stories makes me cry no matter how often I hear it and I'm not known to cry about or over anything. This is a story I feel everyone should hear at least once even if they dont like the music style.

[@Connection_through_Reaction]

Yep, completely agree!

[@TheBeelzboss]

For future Ren videos, he will NEVER strike any video of his. All of his work he is happy to share with others. IF something is ever blocked it is not hs doing and if you message him he will do everything he can to rectify it.

[@hairball7529]

As you have probably been informed, REN doesn't enforce copyright. To the contrary, he wants his music herd by all

[@Connection_through_Reaction]

I have heard a couple of people mention that. Seeing that all of my popular videos are Ren focussed I hope thats the case!

[@hairball7529]

@@Connection_through_Reaction I watched hundreds of reactions to REN. I'm 💯 certain REN wants reactors to review his music. He has contacted some reactors and told them so.

[@Connection_through_Reaction]

Thanks for taking the time to watch this. If you do enjoy this type of content then please consider subscribing as that lets me know that I providing helpful content. Let me know what you think of the issues I have discussed and what would you like to see next?

[@Mr.Ekshin]

Ren doesn't do copyright strikes. In fact a few channels got false strikes, which Ren personally acted to have removed. He comes in and comments in some chnnels, thanking the reactors for helping to spread his music.

[@sketchtherapy1218]

It's better to carry a gun, ask Richard.

[@thatcanadianwhitetrashguy]

I like the way Ren can Punch the Medical Profession in the Face with Facts and Valuable Data if U pay Attention. I got Out of the Hospital cuz I knew there was an Answer for why i was Losing It and Could no Longer Control My thoughts. I fixed it and have been Out of the Hospital for 18 years Now and still Suffering from the Brain Candy You kept Changing On Me. You need to Listen to the 911 call, The Lady that Drowned Her Children in Texas 20 yrs. ago was on the Same Candy Recipe as I was on and Check Out Her Call. The Real Mother was inside screaming Save My Babies, but the Brain Candy did the Phone Call. See if you notice something, that Terrorizes the Brain Candy Victims and It is also the same thing that Mass Shooters are going through. The Shooting is there only way to be able to scream HELP!

[@sketchtherapy1218]

Very insightful, by what I've heard Ren got the idea from an article. A 14 yo boy killed a prostitute and was killed the same night (I don't think they were related) the officer had written in the notes "it's such a shame". He then wrote violet to bring them all together & bring awareness to cyclical trauma and generational violence. Yes odds are Jenny was a prostitute.

[@alimac1469]

No apologies needed.❤ we all lost it, and still do. Glad you took it back. I think this masterpiece highlights generational violence / poverty. It also tells of hereditary traits, Jenny was silent like her mother Screech had explosive anger like his father The twins obviously slipped through the cracks of the welfare system Thank you so much for your insights!

[@elianijah]

This song has moved my insides more than any other I've heard from Ren yet...in the pit of my stomach... Violet's part of the story brought back some old trauma that I wasn't aware of still affected me so much almost 20 years after the fact...such an amazing musician, writer, vocalist...stole my breath for a moment and left me speechless and filled with physically affecting emotions...well done Ren🙏

[@thehazelinthejane]

I have watched hundreds upon hundreds of reactions to various things over the last few years, and I can say with absolute certainty that I've never looked forward to a reaction more than I have looked forward to this one. I will update my comment after I view the video in it's entirety, but thank you in advance for taking the time to do this.

[@vaxy6140]

This is one of the best and most heartfelt reactions I've seen to this, and it has become my hobby to react to people reacting to Ren. You sir have earned a sub and a half for both insight and raw emotion.

[@johnnypasho]

Stuart, I really like your takes and your authenticity. Very refreshing and relatable. During the ending of Violet's Tale I finally realized deep down that this is what you do for living (I knew before, but it didn't really click until I saw you process what is happening) and it hit me like a truck. Youth Psychotherapy has to be mentally taxing so I'm sending a lot of positivity to you!

[@michaelwebb5946]

I love your bard core head bop. This is such a tragic story and should hit everyone in the feels, I have cried on more than one of Ren's Songs. The way he brings you into the story makes it even more real. Great reaction. I really love the educational commentary at the end.

[@Connection_through_Reaction]

Thanks Michael. I was in two minds whether to edit out some of my crying, but I decided to keep it in as it keeps it true to my genuine reaction. Glad you liked the ending, I thought given my actual profession it would be amiss not to mention something about it.

[@LHartman-gj7dl]

I think it would have been a little disrespectful to us viewers if you had edited it out. It felt important that it was there and that you retracted your apology. We are all humans.

[@LHartman-gj7dl]

Maybe disrespectful is too harsh a word, I hope you understand what I'm failing to say!!

[@jolewis4382]

We ALL cry 😢 Welcome to the movement that is Ren. Once you hear, you can't go back. He speaks directly to our deepest, darkest secrets we bury in our soul and gives it a voice, he brings it all into the light for us. You are now a RENegade.

[@pippafinland]

These tales hit so hard. 💔 I used to work in mental health care and after that I started working in adult social care. The real life stories just tear you up inside and #ren captures that heartbreak in these tales so well. I don't even know what to say, this chokes me up every time. Great reaction. 👌🏻

[@Connection_through_Reaction]

Thats what it is isnt it. We can sometimes view things through a population or public level lens - but we see the individuals that these systemic decisions impact on a daily basis and it is heart breaking.

[@pippafinland]

@@Connection_through_Reaction It is painful and frustrating to meet people crying for help in many different ways and as much as you want to you just can't help them. 💔 Luckily there are some people whose life take a positive turn. I turn to music to heal my heart and Ren is definitely shining a bright light. 😍

[@1998TDM]

I live in an area where stories like this are being enacted in front of me. Luckily I spend a wee bit of time teaching teens and it never ceases to boost me when I see their determination to escape the crap which they could so easily fall into. The kids I see get it, it's those I don't see that make me cry.

[@Connection_through_Reaction]

So many get missed. Quite often its not even the fact im a therapist or a specialist in this area, often I just spend time with them, kick a football around, play some playstation. Consistently over weeks and months and spend that time talking about whats going on for them in their lives, exploring other options etc. Try and get them in a clinic room or a council building and there is no chance!

[@k_WESTSIDE_AMERICAN]

Thank you for being an advocate for OUR children. 🙏

[@nigeldepledge3790]

"It's a symptom of an underlying need that isn't being met." Yep. This. And those unmet needs are, in turn, symptoms of a society and culture that thrive on people being broken.

[@Connection_through_Reaction]

Absolutely 100% agree with this Nigel!

[@TeahVickery]

I love the epilogue you added, and your focus on Screech. I have seen a lot of people react to this video of Ren's, and only a couple have shown any degree of sympathy or kindness towards Screech. ❤ You gained a subscription from me, i am excited to check out the rest of your content! One of things that i love about Ren is how he uses his storytelling gift to hook you in, then feeds you stories of what is happening all around that most people just gloss over or look away from; the stories where it is easier to take a black or white perspective, assign blame, and move on without examining the circumstances on both/all sides of the situation. There are other artists who do this, but Ren's approach seems much more raw and honest; for myself, I think it's because he doesn't cast blame on the characters in most instances, he insteads gives viewers a clear slap to the face about the state of the systems that are giving rise to these unavoidable situations.

[@gregcampbell2977]

Love your visceral reaction. Never apologize for it my friend. I've seen this performance dozens of times and I cry every time. And I'm a 54 year old man.

[@vanburger]

I've cried umpteen times to this incredible piece of art.

[@IratePuffin]

I love how so many reactions to Ren’s music end in a few seconds of stunned silence. You should definitely check out his songs “Chalk Outlines” and “How To Be Me.” Both feature Chinchilla, another amazing independent artist. Both of those songs showcase his singing talents more than rap but they’re both right up your alley as a psychotherapist. Chalk Outlines is about how hollow you feel when you’re on anti-depression and other meds. How To Be Me was written by Ren after his best friend committed “self forever sleep” by jumping from a bridge. His body was never found. I would love to get your perspective on both!

[@sally8704]

I have probably watched over a 100 Ren reactions. I love to see other people’s take on songs from this amazing artist. I have even watched a variety of health care workers but you have a unique way of explaining things. I thoroughly enjoyed listening to you. Your emotions are raw & natural and your words are very informative. I am so happy that I stubbled across your page, I look forward to watching more reactions from you.

[@Connection_through_Reaction]

Thanks for the kind words Sally.

[@benjaminlsrael2424]

I love the way he takes that he took his apology back, because it really takes some guts to say this. And I really appreciate that he just drops these truth-bombs. I've been through a lot myself and i recognized many things. I want to thank you for the awesome review and for showing/sharing your thoughts and emotions

[@JensRandolff]

Thank you for your genuine, heartfelt reaction and analysis. Ren’s trilogy has been likened to a Shakespearean tragedy and is a prime example of his genius; it is a master’s class in storytelling and really showcases his guitar skills. 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 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 “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, 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. I am looking forward to watch you continue down the Ren rabbithole.

[@Jnxdbljnx]

Thank you for this cataloguing of his work and mention of his former bandmates' solo stuff...lots to look up!

[@richardlyons7582]

Stuart each act was done live and in one take, Violet tale was done about two years after Jenny and Screech tales.

[@Connection_through_Reaction]

Oh wow, thats soooooo impressive. Its amazing that Violet was done about two years later - I wonder if he had that in his back pocket all the time or came up with it later. Either way it works so well.

[@rog2224]

@@Connection_through_Reaction "Our story it ends, right at the start" - a start we don't see until we're taken back to 2005.

[@dawnpatterson8708]

Seeing your initial HUMAN reaction and you thanking people for the recommendation. My first thought was, I'm sorry and you're welcome. Seeing you come back made me feel better. You did exactly what I wanted. Took the whole picture and explained the why and the how THIS type of thing happens. I see that you did a NICE combination of the options. Oh and I ABSOLUTELY loved the fact that you took your apology back for crying. I worry for the folks that get to the end and say "wow wasn't that just awesome ?" and leave it at that. The story is designed to shed light on the things that are happening NOW. That some don't know even exist. Designed to get people talking. Like most of hus music. Thank you sincerely for this. I appreciate you.

[@cherylmack1260]

I cried also. I'm aware of the trauma in families being handed down. Both physical and mental abuse. We need to make people more aware of this happening all the time. We really do need to address these issues to help out society. This is why I am so thankful for Ren to bring these issues out.

[@DebErelene]

I think my favourite part of Ren reaction videos is seeing the reactors *feel* the music/stories. We're right there with you. It's an amazing way to connect with other humans over the internet.

[@aneurysm2479]

I think most of us cry at this one. I've seen it hundreds of times and it still gets me. Couldn't go without saying thank you for a genuine and thoughtful reaction. Also an even bigger thank you for the work you do. I'm sure you have made a huge difference to children's lives and society as a whole. Bless you and yours

[@rebeccarose7405]

Thank you so much for mentioning several times that ALL of them are children! Jenny and Screech are both 14, and Violet was 16 or 17. Violet and Jenny are both speechless, while Screech and Stevie (the twins father, I assume) have the devil invoked and have been using mind altering substances. I would love for there to be good, solid solutions for all the issues in things like foster care, but it seems like such a huge issue the world around…. Great video!

[@Shetiger7]

I think Violet's father was also the father of her children (remember he was SA'ing her). When she moved out, she did so on welfare if you remember, and those programs don't come for just anyone. Most of the time it is for those with children (and even pregnant), and she didn't meet Stevie until after that. So that is what I infer from the info given to us. It adds another layer to the cycle, and also a more devastating conclusion when you think about Jenny and Screech's father also being their grandfather. I may be wrong, but it makes so much sense to me.

[@srslyboomer]

Stuart, Ren has been handing my heart to me, repeatedly, since I discovered him. Been binging on his music, and people's reaction to it. Your...devastation, absolutely hit home. It's clear, so very very clear, that your heart is broken, because you care So Damn Much. Bless you for that, for your passion, and for being willing to open it up for us. Some of us manage to...struggle our way out of generational trauma. But man, it takes being very intentional, and a lot of work, and some amount of luck large or small, and to be honest a certain amount of privilege. God alone knows where my life would have gone, had I come from a family that was poorer, had missed a few opportunities, hadn't been *extremely* fortunate in stumbling across more than one compassionate adult mentor in my teens and early twenties, or if I were, say, a black woman instead of a white man in America. And you're never completely out of it - even now, at 61, I still struggle. Ugh. As far as your apology, and your repudiation thereof - right on. The saying on our house is, "We honor our tears here - just means you're letting yourself feel the universe". Thank you for feeling the music, and bless you again for sharing so much of yourself with all us Internet Randos out there.

[@Psyco913]

Great reaction. I especially appreciate all the insight from your profession at the end. When you brought up Screech's age it made me start thinking about how important his young age is to the way a listener/viewer regards him and his actions. Every year you add to Screech's age adds more responsibility and subtracts some empathy. If he was 18 instead of 14 I think a lot more people would have a hard time empathizing with his situation. The reality is his situation would likely be the same and if he hadn't gotten any help in those four years there would be no reason for him to behave any differently.

[@nickas_serpentarius]

I'm Glad you walked back your apology for getting emotional. I have watched a few reaction videos to Ren's Tales tonight and everyone seems to be reduced to tears by the end. He is a masterful storyteller.

[@angiepanaexx]

What a beautiful soul you are! Thank God for people like you and the profession you have chosen. I'm sure you will do so much good. Ren is a wonderful talented and beautiful soul too. His tale of the cycle of abuse is very poignant and topical. Take care, thank you for being so vulnerable and honest.

[@sadie6219]

Damn. Most real reaction to this I’ve seen. (Among MANY). Thank you for your perspective.

[@LaurenJeanieS]

Thank you for showing your true, raw reaction. Ren's songs are so emotive and a true art form.

[@AuDHD_Incarnate]

3:58 I know it's illuded to at the end and during Jenny's tale, but I just want to bring attention to the fact that Jenny was 14 as well. That's crazy to me.

[@CarnaghSidhe]

It's really good to see a theraputic professional choosing to explore this material, and does I feel say a lot about you. Your comments at the end in particular were very interesting. A subject you may want to consider covering in the future might be, fear of abandonment... Thanks for sharing your reaction, it was really cool :)

[@Connection_through_Reaction]

Hi Guy, thanks for taking the time to comment and I like your idea of fear of abandonment as I come across that quite often. its really helpful to have people suggesting ideas to me as that gives me an indication of what people are actually interested in instead of me just guessing.

[@thesage11]

This was an incredibly insightful reaction. Thank you for showing your humanity by not cutting out the part where you got emotional. I’m new to your channel so I don’t know if you’ve reacted to this already but it would be interesting to hear your opinion on immortal technique’s dance with the devil. It’s very similar to these tales.

[@Connection_through_Reaction]

Havent come across that but will check it out. Thanks for sharing!

[@thesage11]

@@Connection_through_Reaction you’re welcome and looking forward to it!

[@Mooshie_7]

As someone who was in the foster system this hits hard. Everything you said in regard to that at the end is true. Sadly, a lot of foster children's trauma actually comes from being in the system.

[@sueanderson1096]

I totally agree with every word you said in the last section of your video! I am nearly 70 yrs old and if I had my time to come again I would have loved to have been involved in youth projects etc. Too many people are quick to judge when they see behaviour that is less than perfect without ever thinking about what a tortured soul is going through to make them act that way. Good luck with your future endeavours. May god go with you x

[@Connection_through_Reaction]

Thanks for kind words Sue.

[@neilturner216]

Great reaction! So raw and authentic, and some great insights into mental health. Hats off to you for working to improve the outcomes for troubles lives; that's awesome.

[@CharlieSML]

I got goosebumps when violet went to the hospital and begged the doctor to save her baby. I was deeply sad and moved. In a strange way it was cathartic for me to listen to Rens tale. I had severe child abuse and both of my parents were also abused. I also have a twin bother and our trauma effected us both differently. I was direct and not afraid to speak my mind but I also was very angry and not afraid to show it. I protected my brother. My brother was very passive, quiet but his anger was always surprising and explosive. I was troublesome for my voice and he was troublesome for breaking rules behind the scenes. I even got into a fight with my twin to the point where I was scared he was going to hurt me and I grabbed my scissors on my table, pointed them at him and told him to get out of my room. I would love to have an interview with Q and A about generational trauma. I married and when my daughter was a year old I left him because he was drinking, emotionally abusive, always punching holes in walls and destroying property. I was so moved by the ballad but I also was moved to see a healthcare provider care that much. I've seen plenty of providers and idk if it's compassion fatigue but I always feel disconnected like they're not hearing me. Don't worry I'm not doing it for fame, I'm a veteran and the VA healthcare is terrible. I'm just trying to get some good counseling. Haha nah I'm joking. I really just want to help participate in putting a spot light on the cycle. I'm still struggling to fix myself so I can feel healthy and not controlled by PTSD, depression and emotional disregulation.

[@niall_connolly]

Thank you for letting the tears flow. I've watched it multiple times and it gets me every time. Very profound.

[@danielheron2746]

One of the better and most analytical responses to the trilogy, most reactions focus heavily on the musical ability and story telling which whilst is amazing, your focus on the underlying tones of the story and subtext made this reaction video stand out so much more than the rest. Great Videoq

[@salishseamermaid]

THANK YOU for your thoughtful, compassionate commentary at the end. It's so easy to remove ourselves from the equation by applying superficial blame to people like Screech for his extreme behavior, or to say Jenny "should have known better" than to be out on the streets at night, out that Violet shouldn't have stayed in an abusive relationship. But the reality is never so simple. I see the generational aspect in my work all the time as a nurse caring for newborns in withdrawal from prenatal drug exposure. Their parents so often have backgrounds of abuse, neglect, and highly chaotic childhoods; and their babies often end up in foster care because the parents have no ability to care for them. It's easy to fault the mothers for using drugs while pregnant, but that fails to take into account so many other factors at play. I live near Seattle, where the city has created a Crisis Response Team which consists of mental health professionals paired with specially trained police officers. They focus on taking a more compassionate approach to law enforcement encounters that involve mental health crises. It's still addressing behavior that's happening during a crisis instead of averting the crisis, but it is an attempt to reduce the number of situations that end up with Screech dying in the street.

[@Connection_through_Reaction]

Thanks for the comment Salish and sharing your experience. That must be such a tough area to work in. I quite often have teenagers working with me who are pregnant with lots of social care being involved in decisions around their baby. Like you say the reality of these situations is so complicated. It does feel like things are slowly moving toward a more compassionate approach, but its taking a very long time!

[@shannonsmith9683]

Love your honest reactions, BUT you make me cry 😢 like a lot watching you watching Ren. Much love from Baltimore MD to you ❤❤❤ and thank you for being open and honest with your reactions.

[@daveb1215]

I heard the best description of Ren the other day, someone said he was born out of time, and is a true minstrel, I couldn't agree more.

[@Connection_through_Reaction]

Yes I can totally see that! I can imagine him walking round story telling with a lute telling tales of everything he’s seen.

[@meganwoehl5277]

I think its so valuable for therapists to react to music. Music is our way of expressing what we can't say and it has the ability to go so deep (like Ren does). I'll be subscribing in hopes you do more song reactions. If I could leave a suggestion, try Schism by Tool. Its not as emotional but I love the way it describes troubled relationships. Plus its Tool, so even if you dont connect with the lyrics (doubtful) you can atleast vibe out.

[@MsMegF]

This was a beautiful reaction…..you mirrored the emotions I’m feeling as well….

[@Connection_through_Reaction]

Thanks for the kind words.

[@ThemAInAIm]

👍 Great stuff. Such a natural reaction, this is the Ren effect, he’s so good installing all types of awareness in his songs. He’s a genius. As for the song, They call him Screech because he’s quick on his feet. Keep up the good work brother in your profession and your KZbin journey ✌️

[@polyesterspecter]

Hugs, man. Ren's music can hit like a ton of bricks. He's redefining masculinity through vulnerability and empathy, as are you by your reactions. I would also recommend CHALK OUTLINES (LIVE) and HOW TO BE ME (LIVE). Welcome to the RENaissance.

[@kiche08]

I really enjoyed your insight and commentary. I'm from the US, but the situation is very much the same here. The systems in place often fail our adults and youth alike. Generational trauma and cycles of abuse continue. What Ren creates is very much art, storytelling through music in a way that really does hit on all of the points while eliciting that emotion. It makes you want to fight for change. It's eye opening, uncomfortable. I appreciated seeing how strong of an emotional response you had because it means you very much do care. These stories, these people, they are very much real. It makes me happy to know you're out there for the Jennys, the Screechs, and the Violets. Thank you for sharing your reaction and I look forward to any others you'd like to share in the future.

[@jessicalogan777]

Another thing that gets overlooked is how the twins jenny and screech obviously growing up apart have adopted their parents traits. Jenny like violet is a quiet girl, and screech is violent like his father.

[@allybandy3047]

What hits me hardest is "Do you think I want to do this Violet?" If there was a way to truly heal that need to punish others we would be making some real progress. Can't go on about it more or I will re-traumatize myself ♥ Thank you for reacting.

[@marywoods6937]

That is the line that hits me hardest. Instant freeze; instant silence

[@martinschulz-bruckner4155]

You're so open and really empathetic. THANK YOU for this reaction!

[@JohnDoe-ds6pr]

Most people I think were emotionally moved in watching these clips. If you weren't you must have a heart of stone. Alot of Ren's songs have the ability to make you think outside the square , and connect with your heart.

[@MsCogan555]

From the ages of 12 -16, I was physically abused by my father. He was an alcoholic, it was like experiencing Jekyl and Hyde. My brain spent yrs not aware that from this experience i was repeating this abuse in the people i dated. I'm neurodiverse and my brain has logically filed it, he was abused, so he abused me. The memories were burried. Until I found violets tale, it triggers a memory response and its been allowing me to really process this. Im so deeply thankful to Ren for this song.

[@CTomSmithJr]

Beautiful reaction.

[@Connection_through_Reaction]

Thanks Tom

[@kjcile8334]

It's such a blessing to see someone like you watch this. You will make a difference. People see this & it gives us hope because we know these things happen & it was so real to relate each character. It's so good to know there's people like you who is going to make change. i love how you give me clinical knowledge to our reactions.

[@Connection_through_Reaction]

Thanks Kjc

[@atwellorama]

The first two tales were both based on news clippings that Ren had read. A young boy arrested for stabbing a prostitute, and a police officer feeling remorse after having shot a 14yo boy. The third tale, written much later, was a common tale that tired the first two together well.

[@noelward1367]

Thanks for the reaction & the empathy. You offer a lot for us to think about.

[@StephenSink]

Excellent reaction and I loved your informed commentary at the end, especially when you could apply your doctorate work and professional subject matter expertise (young justice psychotherapist) to this subject matter of generational trauma and cycles of abuse. A really tough subject, and one easy to shy away from, and thank you for taking the risk, being vulnerable, and sharing with us. You've gained a new subscriber! Good work, sir.

[@completelyunrelated6047]

That was the exact same reaction the first time I listened to the 3 of them songs there is no shame. REN isn't a rapper he's a word smith. To be able to put a story together like that, something so deep and to do it in the form of a song is true talent. Edit: just had a quick scan thought others comments and its amazing to see that no one (in the comments I saw) even hinted at an attempt to take the piss as it were.

[@dianeschulz3127]

Your breakdown of generational trauma was on-point. You're one of the few reactors who have brought that up and that's why watching all of the stories Ren depicted in order is pretty important. These videos hit really hard as an American where similar behavior patterns lead to many people dying to gunshot wounds.

[@Connection_through_Reaction]

Thanks for the comment Diane. In my experience it’s relatively rare over here for the police to shoot someone like this. But I have known many many children who have lost their lives due to knives - they’ve either killed someone themselves or been killed.

[@Justmeher]

I found it interesting that Jenny had the same reaction as Violet freezing and staying silent where as screech had the fight reaction like his dad and unfortunately choose violence. So sad but good story for the nature verses nurture topic. Honestly such sad stories and outcomes but told so well through Ren you cant help but get sucked in to what hes saying. I have watched afew different people react to these and your not the only one who ended up crying im glad you took your apology back for that because it was an honest true reaction so much so that i subscribed to you as soon as i seen you react like that. Great video!

[@nadinet7728]

A lot of Rens stories speak deeply to everyone. Either its from personal experiences or from normal human empathy. Having suffered so long with mental health, Ren is someone I'm glad I found. I sing to decompress and learning his songs help me add words to my own feelings and emotions (something I've never been able to do).

[@laurainman1]

Thank you for allowing your very human emotions to show. There is hope for this world because of people like you.

[@ControversialChristian]

Ren has so much talent . I am so glad he didn't his major illness keep him down.

[@zebra3962]

Beautiful reaction man..shows you are a human being..not only that, but that, but that you care about yout patients

[@madison-arts]

There are two live songs Ren does with another singer, Chinchilla, I think you'd like: Chalk Outlines and How To Be Me.

[@ClearTheRubble7]

I'm also glad that you kept your tears in the video. I've seen the Tales 463 times, give or take, and weep every time I get to the end--and at the point when Ren says, "History repeats itself," looks up at the spiral staircase, and sings, "She never stood a chance." That, especially, kills me every time. I grew up in a similar household, on the "wrong side of the tracks," and had to work hard to short-circuit the trauma trapped inside of me so that I wouldn't carry it onward. Subbed!

[@dee_owen]

NEVER apologise for being an empathetic human.... Iv been following ren for 3yrs now an from back then to this day, especially recently watching reactions over and over I cry daily.. 1 because I feel it and 2 because being an empath myself I feel your reactions also.... I absolutely ❤ ren he lyrically displays reality in performing arts like a genius... he is just that ❤

[@WhiteBoyDay]

Loved your take on this. And I’ve cried multiple times watching this

[@massappeal2696]

I feel the need to clarify this every time I hear it. Ren has talent, sure, but what you're seeing and hearing is talent honed into skill by years of practice. Ren is a highly skilled musician.

[@Kanderesraide]

I appreciate your emotional reaction to this, especially since of what your profession is. You won't let your job desensitize you.

[@gisobo]

Thank you so much!

[@reynamoyer2379]

Thank you Sir. I loved your reaction and i appreciate your take on things