My brother! Just got a chance to sit down and watch this, loved the place you approached it from! I liked the TS Eliot quote too , awesome! thanks so much for reacting and helping support what I do!
It’s my pleasure my friend! I’ve gotten slammed to review another track of yours, so I’ll be doing that soon. Keep going brother - I love your stuff & you’re always welcome to come on the Channel if you’d like!
@@Guitargate Keeping an eye out for it! am in canada atm going through medical treatment for the next few months but one its over with could be a great thing to do!
@@RenMakesMusic ALL THE BLESSINGS TO YOU, MY FRIEND!! I'VE RECENTLY STARTED TO HEAR AND WATCH YOUR MUSIC, AND I LOVE IT!!! DEFINITELY, YOU INSPIRED SO MANY PEOPLE; SO HANG ON, KEEP FIGHTING IN THIS ETERNAL DANCE. YOU AND YOUR MUSIC MAKE THIS WORLD A BETTER PLACE!!! 🤘🏼🎶
Mike, suicide survivor x 2 here. (Clearly not very good at it) This is such an important video. Thank you for covering it. Thank you for your ongoing support in your videos for those of us with demons and addictions. I promise you, your voice is massive in this regard. Your point about immediately regretting the decision is correct. Despite the drugs/alcohol concoction, a moment of sobriety stands in that moment. I’ve never been more sober than in those 10 seconds. Every day is still a battle for me, but videos like this make it a little easier to know that someone gets it. Peace ✌🏻
Peter, I'm so glad you "suck" at this one thing but I'd put money on you that you are very good at many things. Maybe, some things music related since you are here listening to Michael. Demons and addictions (maybe the same thing) are very tough but you can do it!
Same. I used to take 6 mg of Xanax a day, just to cope. Thank God, I'm in a better place now, but like Ren said, "It's an eternal dance" You aren't alone.✌️🤟❤️
Hey Michael! I HIGHLY recommend you do a video for "The tale of Jenny and Screech"! Esp because of the phenomenal guitar skills. This guy just so amazingly musically talented in so many ways. His story telling is fantastic!
I've been listening to Ren for YEARS on end and I'm so happy to see him finally get the attention he deserves, he is such an insanely talented artist and has helped me through some tough times.
@@Flowersandcookies931 I wish I knew about him sooner tbh , only just found out about him and im so happy hes releasing an album soon, gonna have a great month in April listening to that and NFs new album. So far this is my favourite, The Hunger is second and Genesis 3rd
He's one of those artists that I WISH I'd been listening to for years. He blows my mind. He's so young, he's been desperately ill half his life and he still can be this incredible. I hope he becomes successful and happy beyond his wildest dreams.
You live in a small world and listen to the news too much. There is so much compassion and love in the world yet no one seems to see it because they choose to believe the man or woman on the TV says. Shut that off and do something meaningful with your life and connect with your community and you will see the generosity and kindness on this planet. I can emphasize with this artist "Ren" but he is simply a product of his generation. Subverted and pushed to seek psychiatry is my guess from this song. Eat healthy and work on yourself and live a meaningful life and I promise you that you will be happy.
Everyone is talking about the song “Hi Ren” as much as all his others are incredible, Hi Ren is the one that people have been recently falling over themselves to push out there and worthy this outpouring is too. Much love to you all, Ch’O
Yep, should have picked, Hi Ren. Ah well. Hopefully folks will discover that one after this video. It would also be super cool to see a review of Jenny's, Screech's, and Violet's tale all together in one video since they are all connected.
Checked out Hi Ren after reading this and I don't think I've ever seen anything like it in my life. So... good? Good doesn't seem to cover it quite right but wow am I glad I watched it.
@@guitarkyle I’ve got a feeling after reading these comments that he might just take a look at “Hi Ren” saying that though I’ve had so many Hi Ren reaction video recommendations recently it’s quite heartwarming to see Ren has most definitely made his worthy mark. Much love, Ch’O
Ren is a once in a lifetime artist, what I love is his focus on lyrical storytelling that's the focus of his tracks and his vocals deliver in an at time unsettling way but isn't that wht art is for? To make you look at the world ina different way
Ren is totally amazing... I end up crying through half of his songs. They are so moving. just found him today and have been searching through watching all his videos I can find. What a storyteller he is.
I was just thinking the same thing… I see a lot of recommendations for Jenny and Screech, the 25 minute trilogy… and I’m just not ready for it! Still listening to and processing hi Ren
As someone else said, you do know Ren. You reacted to him in his band the Big Push doing "Wade in the Water." Glad he's finally getting the recognition he deserves. Also, a note to anyone who may not know, this song is recorded live and in one take. Quite impressive.
Now that I’m onto Ren I’ve found several reactors that did the Big Push or a Sam and Ren busking video and haven’t made the connection. Some were years ago like this but a few are within the last year.
I know Ren doesn't care about the BS industry, but he deserves every accolade and industry wide recognition for Hi Ren. Seriously, this should be song of the year, video of the year, mental health awareness campaign of the year, and more. Calling on all Ren fans - let's make this happen. Download everywhere, share everywhere, lobby everywhere. Salute. Peace.
As soon as I found Hi Ren I started sharing with my firends, and I noticed many of them started doing the same. His fanbase is expanding, and it's crossing geographical, cultural, political and age lines. He is going to be huge, and he deserves it.
@@chelfyn I really just don't understand the huge amount of love for this song. The content is perennial; it's just slightly against the norm right now. If you go back 10 years, there are many songs about this. It is both unfortunately and fortunately not a unique message, but it's the version that is coming out right now. It feels contrived and self-conscious to me. Is it really authentic if you say, "I'm going to make this as authentic as possible?" As someone who is unfortunately well versed in the topic matter, the musicality doesn't even match the content. I'm sure I'm missing something about this, but most of the comments here mostly boil down to: "We haven't heard this message in a while, and it is important." Totally agree it's important, but the vocals in this song don't remotely match the lyrics.
@@chelfyn I'm a 70 year old woman in the southern US. Huge huge fan. If it helps, you all should know that although some really bad things have happened in the course of my time, it was all a gift. Every bit of it. I look back and I am grateful for the lessons in the pain. Wait for it.
I like your read on the part "Such a perfect day, take it just in case." For me though... It sounds like he's talking about his meds. I'm bipolar and manage it with a couple of meds. I've been symptom free for about a year now. The temptation to stop talking my meds when everything is going smoothly is always there... But my meds are why everything is going smoothly.
Your take seems like what Ren was talking about. My initial assumption was about drugs/alc, "Im feeling great today, I should go drink with some friends... I'm feeling shit today I gotta drink away my feelings". Like you gotta take the good days to recover and break the cycle, dont try to cure the pain when its not there 'Just in case'
The Genius of ren is you can take any of his lyrics and put it on something that reflects of your own life. Both in hi ren and this one, not many people can do that with almost every single lyric they use
These réaction videos to Ren are becoming a whole new thing of their own. What a beautiful human reaction this one was, too. Thank you, your take on music is really inspiring 🦋
Michael...what can I say? You are a truly good geezer. Beyond teaching musical tricks, chords and scales. You bring in this wonderful, talented young man, who has to endure a pathology that forces him in bed...and you give a reading of the song, the situation, the meaning, in the most humane way possible. This is what RUclipsr channels like yours should be about, offering the whole picture, instead of focusing on a stylistic detail. And you just do that, for which I can only be grateful.
Suggested below but don't miss out on his piece 'Hi REN', it explains him and his journey with depth and power, it's courageous and unlike anything else out there, it also shows a lot more of his ability on guitar and how he explores and arranges. Seriously don't miss out, if not for the channel do it for yourself it will touch you....
Ren is brilliant. You realise how overused the words like brilliant, genius, talented and exceptional are, when you spend time getting to know rens art, and truely need to use those words to set him apart from the rest.of.the.best.in.the.world. and they fall short.
Michael, I just became a recent scribber to your channel for the music and guitar theory aspects you bring. Love what you do. I did not see this song coming. It will be 31 years ago soon since the brother took his final decision to leave life. The ripples of that decision hit more often than I'd care to admit. I wish I'd heard these profound lyrics 31 years ago, I wish my brother had heard them 31 years ago. Thanks for not glossing over the truth of the profound subject matter. Everybody's life will change forever and certainly will never be the same. The lyrics got so heavy and direct that I was stopped in my tracks.
This was a one take studio track.. all the imperfections are left in to add soul to the song. This is a deep song! All REN’s songs are deep.. Written from a personal perspective. A little disturbing,but it hits an emotional chord in all of us.
I clicked on this just to check in and what you have done in reviewing this has sparked a feeling of gratitude that my demons haven't go the best of me. 8 months clean as of yesterday!! God bless
He has a song called Freckled Angels about a dear friend he lost it is a beautiful song. I am 63 Years old and I am so proud of this young man having strength dealing with lime disease and other health issues. His singing and artistic work is his strength.Hi REN is a must see!
Ren sings and raps about dark subjects in a way that cheers me up--cheers a lot of us up. I was on the suicide subway myself, at one time, but at the last minute I called a hotline. Life didn't immediately get better afterwards, but it surely did after a while. Your reaction was excellent, insightful, thoughtful.
Ren is the most down to Earth guy you could ever meet. He deserves every success! Incredible talent. I found him about 3 years ago with the Big Push busking performances in Brighton England.
As a person with a mental illness, believe me whan I say all of this is very, very true. Suicide is not to be taken lightly. You're not weak thinking like this, sometimes it's where your condition takes you, sometimes you really truly feel like it's the ONLY WAY. I survived two different attempts when I was younger. Before I knew I had an illness. I survived...and I understand why I did. One day at a time. Glad I took up guitar at the age of 57. Thanks for helping me on my journey Michael, it's appreciated.
Thankyou Michael 🙏 it is a very hard space to navigate when it is just so very clear that IS the only option available. It is a very lonely space. Music saves me in times I feel this way. 'Hi Ren' resonated with me on many levels. I also liked his speech at the end, so, so true. I'm always so distraught when my feelings of eternal sadness return, I'd like to remember I'm in a dance between light and dark 💜 Take Care my friend.🤘
Hey Michael! I love your channel and have watched a ton of your vids. You are so insightful and so human. I caught this one on my way to bed tonight, of all nights, which marks 1 year since my wife took her life. It's crazy that it's been a year. I think often about how she must have felt in the moments before she made her final decision. It hurts to know that someone you love had to stand at the edge of the abyss in their final moments. Her battle with mental illness is over now and we all carry the little pieces of her with us. Those of us who have been touched by suicide view life differently and I completely appreciate your humanity and compassion. I feel like I hear music and really pull something special from it, but somehow your perspective adds something even more. Thanks for all you do brother. You make this world a better place.
As others have mentioned, "Hi Ren" was the first song from Ren I had heard, and it is seriously a must-view. I haven't been affected by a song that much in a very long time. It has a similar theme to this, but cranks up the intensity a lot..
Not for nothing, but 'balanced on my toes in the gallows' is a reference to being hung. You're hung in a gallows. So, balancing on your toes so you can breathe makes perfect sense, assuming your feet are very near the ground. Sounds more like someone who is very close to death AND life, holding on for that few seconds more.
I don't think this is the Ren song you were meant to be critiquing here! This song you're critiquing is gorgeous, but still comes nowhere CLOSE to his song 'Hi Ren'. 'Hi Ren' is one of the most extraordinary, unique, heart and soul piercing , yet at same time uplifting, works of musical art EVER! End of!
It's been just over a year since my psychotic break, I was found naked by a flooded river, I don't remember much about the day other than waking up with the conviction that that day was the day and being a poor swimmer, having no access to a firearm, a flooded river seemed like a logical choice for some reason. I'm told I had neatly folded my clothes and piled them up. I don't regret it, my only regret is that I delayed my intention. I don't have the courage to do that on a normal day but on that day something that I can't put into words happened in my head that made it seem like my only way out of life. It is probably hard for some to understand but I've lived from Affective Psychosis for 20 years, I've suffered with Complex Regional Pain Syndrome for over 10 years. I am sick of existing, but I want to live, I just don't want to exist in the broken shell I'm stuck with.
Michael, on your channel, I enjoy your analysis of the guitar in a song. I'm nearly 37, but I didn't become truly fascinated with the instrument until my mid to late 20s. Finally, at the age of 35, I decided to pick one up myself and it truly has changed my life. However, this reaction video has truly taken your content to another level. I am grateful that you are watching these videos without having any context going in, because your candid and unscripted reaction to this song and its heavy-hitting message shows just what an incredible person you are. Thank you.
I have watched a few of your reactions to Ren and subscribed on the back of your excellent analysis and genuine honest observations. Thanks also for trying to teach us some music theory. I have to laugh and agree with you about the put, who does that!? I have heard this before. What kind of numpty does that??? Do people no longer have a sense of self preservation? Stupid and ignorant as it is it's also frickin dangerous. Thank you for your work, really enjoyed your facial reactions for Ren`s videos . He doesn't seem to write about light subjects but each song, word, note and inflection is important and inspirational. Thank you Ren for the journey and thank you Michael for being our wonderful guide. Be well.
Just love this channel. My favorite on RUclips. Thanks for introducing me to this artist. My husband’s brother committed suicide in 1997 before I met him. His family has dedicated themselves to suicide prevention. I appreciate your openness and willingness to speak about mental health. ❤
Anyone notice aecond chorus harmony REN clearly goes for it with her in the moment and kills the notes I mean nails them in full voice. That's pure moment fill. Anyone who sings knows what I mean by that feeling to "Get there"
Thanks for the TS Elliot it sits so well alongside Chalk Outlines drawn so powerfully by Ren x Chinchilla, I came for your reaction I’m moved by your insight and understanding ❤
I swear to God, you're the first reactor after the song finished I actually listened to what you had to say. Your take, your investment your passion. Man, keep it up, its appreciated.
I usually watch your videos to learn some good guitar information, licks, theory etc. but found your commentary on this artist very powerful and moving. As someone that has been fighting depression and bi-polar issues their entire life, I always found myself turning to the guitar / music for expression and solace. Maybe it's a generational thing, but I never thought of ending myself as an option. This gift of life you have been given is a marvel and you only go around once. Cherish it all.
I follow you for a while and i love your reactions. Im European and this guy is amazing! Doesn't belong to anyone and produces such great songs. Such freedom develops to such great things!
In the gallows I'm balanced on my toes so I can breathe - I take the meaning as Ren wants to live so badly he is desperately clinging onto life in whatever way he can
Absolutely my take too. The noose isn't a choice, it was put there. Trying to live despite everything rather than struggling with whether you want to or not.
I take it as the noose is the chokehold depression, mental illness, and even life can have on our lives and so balancing on our toes is symbolic of the attempts we make to stop it from getting tighter and choking out our hope.
i liked what you said about that 'last minute' - Ren mentions this again in Hi Ren, as the voice of hope, the voice you hear when the rope loosens - i know i don't have all that there. I was in a bad place when i first heard Ren and his music and energy pulled me out - gave me that day, and the next one. And that beautiful simplicity of the music. Ren is really talented , he really gets how to do this, no matter if he is quick rapping - i hear every word. Gold
It’s so interesting how song lyrics can resonate in so many different ways. In my mind when I heard the “it’s a beautiful day, take it anyway.” I interpreted that as those days where you actually start out feeling ok but maybe take a drug, or your antidepressants, as a buffer anyways. I think when you struggle with chronic depression it’s a common feeling to fear just how long any given moment of relief will last without anticipating a fall again to where you were.
Knowing his history of misdiagnosis and also having listened to Sick Boi (... "Take another pill, here, take a couple more. Let see how you're doing in another week or so" ... ), I'd say your interpretation is on point. Although of course, he's probably playing with that duality of interpretations himself.
I also missed the gallows line until you pointed it out. I had a friend take his own life a while back. And you’re so right about trying to take it back, he kicked holes in the wall trying to find a place to stand so he could breathe. It makes it even sadder imagining those last moments of desperation, and no control over his situation. I was also suicidal at that point in my life, and hearing about his trying to go back made me rethink a lot of things. As sad as it is, in some way or another I have him to thank for my being alive today.
Michael, thank you SO much for creating this channel. I only stumbled across it a few days ago. Probably because of my interest in Coulter, Shakey, Tyler Childers, etc... You have awesome content guided down the path of your subscribers... well done sir!! I stumbled on this one yesterday. My brother had severe addiction issues, and mental issues. His suicide and having to go into his apartment to find him was/is haunting, and feeling like WHAT COULD I HAVE DONE DIFFERENTLY?? It is something that has controlled my mind for 8+ years. I already am starting to understand some things listening to some of your content...a huge thanks for that. I am also a "stuck" guitar player. I am going to jump on your site and sign up to learn from you.
You’ve met Ren previously looking at a busking performance by The Big Push. Loved that and love this. Ren Gill has a body of self produced work that is wide ranging. His mates from the currently disbanded The Big Push are, and have been making great unique music that is well worth a listen. Very talented musicians lyricists and singers in their own right. Thank you for looking at Chalk Outlines. It has that simplicity so that the message hits you straight on with a BANG❗️
Talent meets a monent of destiny. Ren's "Hi Ren" touched a nerve. If Ren didn't have the ability to pull off these songs they wouldn't have the impact they do. A great song meets a great perfomance. I hope Ren finds peace where he is going, he does not have an easy road ahead by his own admission. Thanks Ren, keep making music for us all.
Versatility is one of the many great things about Ren. Very few people have done a Chalk Outlines reaction, and if this is the first you've seen of Ren, prepare to be amazed when you see what else he can do. "Hi Ren" and "The Tale of Jenny and Screech (Full)" are the two obvious choices to blow your mind, and they're both guitar-based. He's also a great rapper, making both humorous ("What You Want", "1990s") and topical ("Money Game, Pt. 2") songs.
That is so interesting that you took the last section "It's a beautiful day, take it just in case..." as a line of hope. I heard it as the inner voice telling you that, despite it being a beautiful day, when everything seems okay, you should still take that pill, literal or metaphorical, to protect yourself from the demons that you feel right around the corner. The voice of addiction, of temptation, desperation. But I'm glad to hear it in a new light now. Thanks for reviewing this.
Someone I know just committed suicide. He left information saying he felt like no one liked him and that he didnt fit in. He had so many people at the funeral that people couldn’t fit in the church. Our minds sometimes keep us from realizing that we are loved and we are important. Hopefully this will lead more people like me to be intentional in showing others they are important and not just assuming they know
I remember watching your The Big Push reaction probably over a year back and being so happy they were getting at least a tiny bit of recognition by an awesome reaction RUclipsr. Fast forward to now, the band currently not playing together anymore, but "Hi Ren" making big waves throughout the music reaction side of RUclips and Ren finally being exposed to more people. I'm really glad he is, because just as back then, I truly believe in the power his music holds and his indescribable passion for it. He's an absolute powerhouse but also just a lovely guy, I'll always think fondly of when I met him and the rest of TBP on their tour last year. I'm excited to see where your journey through his material takes you and can't wait for you to get a chance to fall in love with his music, too. Lots of love, brother. Keep at it.
The band is still playing together, they are on hiatus while Ren gets treated for Lyme disease. I watched them play live at the Brighton Dome back in September 2022 and they were absolutely mind-blowing.
@@guidoscalise I know, that's why I said currently. ;) Busking as TBP would be kinda hard with a fourth of the band in Canada. But yeah, my family and I caught them in August at their last show before they got Covid last year, they are incredible. 💛
Had it not been for HI REN I wouldn't have discovered him, just like so many have recently, but HI REN, to me, is a freaking masterpiece. I expected that this video was going to cover that song. Nevertheless, REN is something special. Glad to see he's getting his props now.
Loved your reaction, not the usual guitar lead reaction, and rightly so, you nailed it. The 'traced', and 'erased' chalk outlines analogy hit me so hard. If you have ever taken anti-depressants (I have been through 6 different anti-depressant medication cycles in as many years), they take away who you are inside, you no longer feel anything, you become emotionally stifled, you are just a 'chalk outline' of who you used to be. the line 'you erase yourself in a chalk outline' is exactly that... you erase who you are in this chalk outline... it is so eloquent and such a perfect analogy for me, it might mean something else to somebody else, but this is what it meant to me. I wish I had heard this years ago, but I suppose I had to wait until Ren had written it first. 😀
Thank you for doing a reaction to one of the songs that hasn't been 'discovered' yet. He has so much amazing music and amazing in so many different ways. Hope you enjoy your journey through the Ren rabbit hole.
It’s amazing how many of these young guys (NF, Tom McDonald, and Ren, to name those I have recently found by RUclips), mostly rapping and singing some, are pouring their soul out in these songs about hanging on, despite internal torment, whether they screwed up earlier in life or not. Last popular music I recall that did that was maybe REM with “Everybody Hurts”, but I haven’t been following newer music for several years. Well, these days are pretty good for that material.
Hi Micheal Normally just a viewer and not a commenter but I feel like I need to add here I have been listening too and watching REN for many years he actually helped me and my girlfriend reconnect as we both love him and he is not as well known as he should be (I wish him all the luck in this journey getting through his medical journey) but one of my favourite songs of his is diazipam there is some also guitar playing in it and powerful words too well worth a listen even if you don't review it just treat yourself
Your reactions about heavy stuff are important. You have a very good way of talking about the subjects. Would really love to hear you react to How To Be Me (live version) by these same two. Exceptional and important.
Been following you for a while, this reaction was.. well can not find the word but you embodied the experience of the viewer for this REN view and the whole emotion of their message.
Great reaction. I love this song; it moves me to tears every time. I only recently learned about Ren and have gone down this rabbit hole ever since. Many of the subjects, experiences, and emotions expressed in his songs touch me on a very personal level because I can relate to and identify with many of his struggles. "Hi Ren" is the song that recently went viral and brought Ren to everyone's attention. It is a must see, and I hope that you will watch it, whether in a reaction or in the privacy of your home. A little background on Ren that I gathered from the internet. Ren pursued a career in music from an early age. In 2009, while studying music performance at Bath Spa University, he 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. His illness often kept him in bed for up to 23 hours a day. Ren was initially diagnosed with depression, bipolar disorder, and chronic fatigue syndrome. It would take seven years before he was finally diagnosed correctly with autoimmunity, Lyme disease, and brain damage. Ren eventually underwent stem cell therapy in the United States, which improved his health, but it has not been a cure. He is currently in Canada for more treatments. Ren is an incredible and unique artist; he plays multiple instruments, has great vocal ability, is an excellent storyteller, and is quite the philosopher and poet. From what I read, his videos are shot live, all in one take by his friend. I recommend you check out some of his other work. The trilogy "The Tale of Jenny/Screech/Violet" is haunting and has an unexpected ending; WATCH THEM IN THE STATED ORDER, as this is the flow of the storyline or just watch “The Tale of Jenny & Screech (Full)” which includes “Violet’s Tale at the end. It is another example of Ren’s genius and a master’s class in storytelling. His song "Money Game" (Part I & II) is another recommendation. If you like his personal reflections, they 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. As a solo act, Ren performs a range of genres, much of it hip-hop/rap influenced, as well as guitar-based ballads. His collaborations with Sam Tompkins (“Blind Eyed,” “Earned it /Mans World / Falling”), with Chinchilla (“How to Be Me,” “Chalk Outlines”), with Eden Nash (“Humble,” “Ocean”), with Bibi (“Crutch,” “Ahiahiaoha”), with Molly McKinna (“Penitence”), with his former band mate, Romain Axisa (“French Song”) and any of his performances as a member of the band "The Big Push" (which unfortunately broke up) are awesome and well worth checking out, both the busking (street performances) and their live recordings. Ren has impressive vocal and instrumental skills. He is one-of-a-kind and appears mature beyond his years. Ren released just his latest single, “Sick Boi.” In anticipation of his stay in Canada for more treatments, Ren prepared some music ahead of time to be released over the next 3-6 months that he expects to be gone.
This is good (all his stuff is), but Hi Ren was the song you were looking for! An absolute piece of art. Best song and performance I've seen in many years. Agree with your views on this 👍
From the days of Trick the Fox to Love music (Twenty tracks still available on Bandcamp ) to Freckled Angles and The Big Push, Ren knows how to play great music,writes insightful lyrics and knows how to tug at human emotions. Can never get enough of this guy.
I'm in tears watching this. This is so relevant to someone very dear to me. Thank you. On a different note, the whole blanket/tarp issue has been raging in the Phish community for a while now.
@@Guitargate you probably won’t see this comment… anyhooow. Check out his video “REN - Violet’s Tale”. Look closely…. It’s a live recording. At first I thought “not possible” the lapel mic is just a gimmick but (to my ears at least) the change in reverb confirms it 🤯
Barely ever comment but I just want to thank you for such a strong, vulnerable, raw speech on a heavy issue that we, especially men, need to keep talking about. You’re so real man x
That was great, dude! You make a difference in peoples lives not just because you introduce people to new music, but you also bring a unique perspective to my understanding of music. Thanks!
Yeah, I was excited that Friday was finally here looking forward to playing my guitar and watching some RUclips including you to relax and learn to play better...and then you jumped into the deep end of not the pool but the deep end but the ocean! You, however, handled this video well! The song has so much biting emotion; intense, biting, thought provoking, artistry. We need this side of music to go along with the happy love songs we get inundated with. Yeah, the video added so much! You are correct. We all deal with this issue to some degree and as artists we can't ignore that aspect of creating music. Coming from an older artist; but only older according to the calendar. Keep up the good work.
Michael, I just wanted to say Thank you for this video and your review and commentary of Hi Ren as well. I must admit I have never heard of Ren, but these two videos have been amazing. Being the parent of a daughter who has many struggles with mental illness, I have seen her stare the demon in the face on many occasions. I have seen her walk to the edge and look in vain for reasons to step back instead of over. I have shared these videos with her in hopes that they can get through to her what I have never been able to put into words, in hopes that she can balance on her toes just one more day, so she can breathe.
This is one of my FAVORITE Ren songs. He's an amazing artist, musician, and human. PLEASEEEEEE react to Hi Ren, and then also......Jenny's Tale, Screech's Tale, and lastly Violet's Tale...in that SPECIFIC order. The guitar playing, the live one takes, the lyrics....A MASTERPIECE. Your mind will be blown!!!
I like how you mentioned “real stuff comes out of necessity”. So let me be real here, cause I really need to. Micheal I don’t know what it is about you but your videos touch my soul very often. I can’t put a finger on it, but it’s some kind of mixture of you being a parent a guitar player and man with a soft heart who is not afraid to show it that I can heavily relate to. Many of your videos have brought my tears out and have given me new strength at the same time. I needed to say that. Thank for what you are doing and for being real! From the bottom of my ❤
Michael. I really appreciate the way you speak about inner struggle and suicide here. As you say, a fascinating subject that touches us all. I have been watching you for a while (I don't even play guitar, I just like your content). I remember watching Ren years ago from his busking and forgot all about him. I have been transfixed by the current music and the way it is touching people. All I want to say is that the way you react to this, the way you speak, matters. It's not sad, it's not a plea, and it's not an outlier of human feeling. We all feel this way, or we all have to deal with it at some point. That comes through man. Thank you. Finally, my dad took his own life when I was 6. He was a good man, there is no rational reason that any of us know why he did it... Yet he did. And I have typed this to share the one line that helped me cope and understand. Over a lifetime. And it sounds odd, but if you really empathise it can help if you have lost someone to suicide. By the enlightened Scottish Philosopher of the 18th Century - David Hume. “No man ever threw away life while it was worth keeping.” ― David Hume, Essays on Suicide and the Immortality of the Soul On the surface it sounds unacceptable. Of course all life is worth keeping... but, consider it from that person's POV. To get to THAT point, they are in a mental place where it is truly the only option. For them. If we can accept that? We can learn to be less angry at their ultimate decision and just love them despite their final act. To all of those affected, struggling.. or who are still reading this?? I love ye all. Take care. Go stick on a good tune and let us make it through another day together. x
I wanted to hate this so much when it first started. By the end I was almost in tears. Great song writing and powerful message. Definitely going to check out more.
We write these songs so we can heal. Music is very personal but easily applied over vast emotional substrates. It's a way to find peace in chaos. It's sublime.
Today is the greatest day I've ever known/ can't live for tomorrow, tomorrow's just too long. Ren is a damn god send. Old story, but new. Waiting on some more SP, my friend! Similar stories.........
The truth about suicide and attempting suicide is simply this. The ones who "succeed" are the ones who go quick. Attempting suicide is against everything our make up tells us. It's anathema to everything we are and attempting suicide is a moment of exhaustion, a moment of true insanity. If you don't do it quick, no matter how badly you hurt yourself, you can still hit a moment of clarity. That's really the crux of it. If you are left to linger, you hit that moment of clarity and self preservation and you react accordingly. Committing suicide isn't about weakness. Some of the strongest people have committed suicide in that moment of insanity. In that moment of just needing not to be. They probably didn't even want to exit off the mortal coil, they just didn't see another way because the exhaustion distorts perception. An important part of this song is that eye contact between them. That bridge of empathy they experience because they have a similar baseline. That strength they draw from knowing they aren't alone. Taking medication can destroy everything you are, your creativity, your potential. We trace ourselves in these chalk outlines because you have to comply with medication or they will refuse to help you.
Michael, this is a great song, but the one that's blowing up all over the place and is one of the greatest pieces of performance art you'll ever see is "Hi Ren". It's completely MIND-BLOWING. PLEASE, if you never react to another Ren video, you HAVE to check this one out, I PROMISE you, you'll be blown away and be glad you did! Thanks and keep up the great work on one of the best channels on RUclips!
You actually reacted to Ren a couple years ago with the band Big Push. He is an Artist with a capital "A". And I reiterate what others are saying. All his stuff is cool but you must go watch Hi Ren. It is something else entirely. I also love the trilogy of Violet, Jenny and Screetch. You must watch all three and in order.
😭Thanks for making me feel less alone and restoring some faith in loving humanity. Emotional intelligence is still unknown to many, you have it in spades. Grief and trauma, ignorance and cruelty, can blow a person to pieces, only love can put us back together. Thankyou.
Ren is one of the most talented individuals I have experienced. Listen to all of his stuff. He has such a wide array of talent. You will love it. His stuff with the Big Push and the street busking is phenomenal. Rabbit hole worth diving into.
My brother! Just got a chance to sit down and watch this, loved the place you approached it from! I liked the TS Eliot quote too , awesome! thanks so much for reacting and helping support what I do!
Damn, Ren. You truly are a class act.
It’s my pleasure my friend! I’ve gotten slammed to review another track of yours, so I’ll be doing that soon. Keep going brother - I love your stuff & you’re always welcome to come on the Channel if you’d like!
@@Guitargate Keeping an eye out for it! am in canada atm going through medical treatment for the next few months but one its over with could be a great thing to do!
@@RenMakesMusic ALL THE BLESSINGS TO YOU, MY FRIEND!! I'VE RECENTLY STARTED TO HEAR AND WATCH YOUR MUSIC, AND I LOVE IT!!! DEFINITELY, YOU INSPIRED SO MANY PEOPLE; SO HANG ON, KEEP FIGHTING IN THIS ETERNAL DANCE. YOU AND YOUR MUSIC MAKE THIS WORLD A BETTER PLACE!!! 🤘🏼🎶
@@RenMakesMusic get well soon Ren the world needs your insight into life and your talent at communicating it
Mike, suicide survivor x 2 here. (Clearly not very good at it)
This is such an important video. Thank you for covering it. Thank you for your ongoing support in your videos for those of us with demons and addictions. I promise you, your voice is massive in this regard.
Your point about immediately regretting the decision is correct. Despite the drugs/alcohol concoction, a moment of sobriety stands in that moment. I’ve never been more sober than in those 10 seconds.
Every day is still a battle for me, but videos like this make it a little easier to know that someone gets it.
Peace ✌🏻
Peter, I'm so glad you "suck" at this one thing but I'd put money on you that you are very good at many things. Maybe, some things music related since you are here listening to Michael. Demons and addictions (maybe the same thing) are very tough but you can do it!
@@markpeavy4005 ha, not sure about good at music but it certainly makes me happy! Thanks for the message man :)
My goodness your sense of humor is truly twisted and amazing! That will keep you going on the darkest day. Take care of you
Same. I used to take 6 mg of Xanax a day, just to cope. Thank God, I'm in a better place now, but like Ren said, "It's an eternal dance" You aren't alone.✌️🤟❤️
Stay in the fight, Pete. You got this.
Hey Michael! I HIGHLY recommend you do a video for "The tale of Jenny and Screech"! Esp because of the phenomenal guitar skills. This guy just so amazingly musically talented in so many ways. His story telling is fantastic!
I've been listening to Ren for YEARS on end and I'm so happy to see him finally get the attention he deserves, he is such an insanely talented artist and has helped me through some tough times.
ive been listening to him since demos volume 1. seeing ren get the widespread success makes me so happy.
same here...sort of jealous others are catching up now lol but he deserves all of the attention for sure
@@Flowersandcookies931 I wish I knew about him sooner tbh , only just found out about him and im so happy hes releasing an album soon, gonna have a great month in April listening to that and NFs new album. So far this is my favourite, The Hunger is second and Genesis 3rd
He's one of those artists that I WISH I'd been listening to for years. He blows my mind. He's so young, he's been desperately ill half his life and he still can be this incredible. I hope he becomes successful and happy beyond his wildest dreams.
Lmao, it is sad so many greats r out there we will never hear of. I don’t see him trying to help others is what turned me away
Bro, your level of empathy and compassion is something I've feared our world is losing touch with. Thank you for being here. 🙏
You’re a soy boy.
You live in a small world and listen to the news too much. There is so much compassion and love in the world yet no one seems to see it because they choose to believe the man or woman on the TV says. Shut that off and do something meaningful with your life and connect with your community and you will see the generosity and kindness on this planet. I can emphasize with this artist "Ren" but he is simply a product of his generation. Subverted and pushed to seek psychiatry is my guess from this song. Eat healthy and work on yourself and live a meaningful life and I promise you that you will be happy.
Beautiful comment
Perfect comment bro.
You are not alone. We are together 💕
Everyone is talking about the song “Hi Ren” as much as all his others are incredible, Hi Ren is the one that people have been recently falling over themselves to push out there and worthy this outpouring is too.
Much love to you all, Ch’O
Yep, should have picked, Hi Ren. Ah well. Hopefully folks will discover that one after this video. It would also be super cool to see a review of Jenny's, Screech's, and Violet's tale all together in one video since they are all connected.
Yes MP you need to review/watch Hi REN
Checked out Hi Ren after reading this and I don't think I've ever seen anything like it in my life. So... good? Good doesn't seem to cover it quite right but wow am I glad I watched it.
@@guitarkyle I’ve got a feeling after reading these comments that he might just take a look at “Hi Ren” saying that though I’ve had so many Hi Ren reaction video recommendations recently it’s quite heartwarming to see Ren has most definitely made his worthy mark.
Much love, Ch’O
@@NorthMaybe Agreed. Much love, Ch’O
Ren is a once in a lifetime artist, what I love is his focus on lyrical storytelling that's the focus of his tracks and his vocals deliver in an at time unsettling way but isn't that wht art is for? To make you look at the world ina different way
Ren is totally amazing... I end up crying through half of his songs. They are so moving. just found him today and have been searching through watching all his videos I can find. What a storyteller he is.
Idem pour moi 👍👏🙏💖😱
ive been avoiding watching more ren just cuz how hard hi ren hit. this put me in tears. bad. god this is beautiful. and powerful.
I was just thinking the same thing… I see a lot of recommendations for Jenny and Screech, the 25 minute trilogy… and I’m just not ready for it! Still listening to and processing hi Ren
Ren is my new therapist and the reaction videos are my therapy sessions. 🙂
As someone else said, you do know Ren. You reacted to him in his band the Big Push doing "Wade in the Water." Glad he's finally getting the recognition he deserves. Also, a note to anyone who may not know, this song is recorded live and in one take. Quite impressive.
The Tale of Jenny and Screech is the song/s you need to hear.
He has to do the trilogy.
Now that I’m onto Ren I’ve found several reactors that did the Big Push or a Sam and Ren busking video and haven’t made the connection. Some were years ago like this but a few are within the last year.
I know Ren doesn't care about the BS industry, but he deserves every accolade and industry wide recognition for Hi Ren. Seriously, this should be song of the year, video of the year, mental health awareness campaign of the year, and more. Calling on all Ren fans - let's make this happen. Download everywhere, share everywhere, lobby everywhere. Salute. Peace.
As soon as I found Hi Ren I started sharing with my firends, and I noticed many of them started doing the same. His fanbase is expanding, and it's crossing geographical, cultural, political and age lines. He is going to be huge, and he deserves it.
@@chelfyn I really just don't understand the huge amount of love for this song. The content is perennial; it's just slightly against the norm right now. If you go back 10 years, there are many songs about this. It is both unfortunately and fortunately not a unique message, but it's the version that is coming out right now. It feels contrived and self-conscious to me. Is it really authentic if you say, "I'm going to make this as authentic as possible?" As someone who is unfortunately well versed in the topic matter, the musicality doesn't even match the content. I'm sure I'm missing something about this, but most of the comments here mostly boil down to: "We haven't heard this message in a while, and it is important." Totally agree it's important, but the vocals in this song don't remotely match the lyrics.
@@chelfyn I'm a 70 year old woman in the southern US. Huge huge fan. If it helps, you all should know that although some really bad things have happened in the course of my time, it was all a gift. Every bit of it. I look back and I am grateful for the lessons in the pain. Wait for it.
As I said before Bro.. Ren is the enemy of the Grammys.. he doesn’t intend to.. but he makes it look like such a pukefest…
I like your read on the part "Such a perfect day, take it just in case."
For me though... It sounds like he's talking about his meds. I'm bipolar and manage it with a couple of meds. I've been symptom free for about a year now. The temptation to stop talking my meds when everything is going smoothly is always there... But my meds are why everything is going smoothly.
Your take seems like what Ren was talking about. My initial assumption was about drugs/alc, "Im feeling great today, I should go drink with some friends... I'm feeling shit today I gotta drink away my feelings". Like you gotta take the good days to recover and break the cycle, dont try to cure the pain when its not there 'Just in case'
The Genius of ren is you can take any of his lyrics and put it on something that reflects of your own life. Both in hi ren and this one, not many people can do that with almost every single lyric they use
These réaction videos to Ren are becoming a whole new thing of their own. What a beautiful human reaction this one was, too. Thank you, your take on music is really inspiring 🦋
Michael...what can I say? You are a truly good geezer. Beyond teaching musical tricks, chords and scales. You bring in this wonderful, talented young man, who has to endure a pathology that forces him in bed...and you give a reading of the song, the situation, the meaning, in the most humane way possible. This is what RUclipsr channels like yours should be about, offering the whole picture, instead of focusing on a stylistic detail. And you just do that, for which I can only be grateful.
Oh, my heart. Can it sing and shatter at the same time like this?! Thank you, Ren.
Pheeeww! Music is in good hamds folks. What a powerful freaking song.
Suggested below but don't miss out on his piece 'Hi REN', it explains him and his journey with depth and power, it's courageous and unlike anything else out there, it also shows a lot more of his ability on guitar and how he explores and arranges.
Seriously don't miss out, if not for the channel do it for yourself it will touch you....
100% agree.
Do 'Hi Ren'. Now. No really, do it. Please.
Not expect to wake up and being disappointed at the time. There are always tears in my eye evrytime i listen to this song. Their voices beautiful.
Ren is brilliant. You realise how overused the words like brilliant, genius, talented and exceptional are, when you spend time getting to know rens art, and truely need to use those words to set him apart from the rest.of.the.best.in.the.world. and they fall short.
Michael, I just became a recent scribber to your channel for the music and guitar theory aspects you bring. Love what you do.
I did not see this song coming.
It will be 31 years ago soon since the brother took his final decision to leave life. The ripples of that decision hit more often than I'd care to admit. I wish I'd heard these profound lyrics 31 years ago, I wish my brother had heard them 31 years ago.
Thanks for not glossing over the truth of the profound subject matter. Everybody's life will change forever and certainly will never be the same. The lyrics got so heavy and direct that I was stopped in my tracks.
This was a one take studio track.. all the imperfections are left in to add soul to the song. This is a deep song! All REN’s songs are deep.. Written from a personal perspective. A little disturbing,but it hits an emotional chord in all of us.
Hear, hear. Agreed 👍
I clicked on this just to check in and what you have done in reviewing this has sparked a feeling of gratitude that my demons haven't go the best of me. 8 months clean as of yesterday!! God bless
He has a song called Freckled Angels about a dear friend he lost it is a beautiful song. I am 63 Years old and I am so proud of this young man having strength dealing with lime disease and other health issues. His singing and artistic work is his strength.Hi REN is a must see!
Ren sings and raps about dark subjects in a way that cheers me up--cheers a lot of us up. I was on the suicide subway myself, at one time, but at the last minute I called a hotline. Life didn't immediately get better afterwards, but it surely did after a while. Your reaction was excellent, insightful, thoughtful.
Ren is the most down to Earth guy you could ever meet. He deserves every success! Incredible talent. I found him about 3 years ago with the Big Push busking performances in Brighton England.
As a person with a mental illness, believe me whan I say all of this is very, very true. Suicide is not to be taken lightly. You're not weak thinking like this, sometimes it's where your condition takes you, sometimes you really truly feel like it's the ONLY WAY. I survived two different attempts when I was younger. Before I knew I had an illness. I survived...and I understand why I did. One day at a time. Glad I took up guitar at the age of 57. Thanks for helping me on my journey Michael, it's appreciated.
Only the strongest man can do what the weakest cannot.
Me
Power to you.
I’m glad you’re here Micheal
@@riceflatpicking4954 So am I 😚
Thankyou Michael 🙏 it is a very hard space to navigate when it is just so very clear that IS the only option available. It is a very lonely space. Music saves me in times I feel this way. 'Hi Ren' resonated with me on many levels. I also liked his speech at the end, so, so true. I'm always so distraught when my feelings of eternal sadness return, I'd like to remember I'm in a dance between light and dark 💜 Take Care my friend.🤘
Hey Michael! I love your channel and have watched a ton of your vids. You are so insightful and so human. I caught this one on my way to bed tonight, of all nights, which marks 1 year since my wife took her life. It's crazy that it's been a year. I think often about how she must have felt in the moments before she made her final decision. It hurts to know that someone you love had to stand at the edge of the abyss in their final moments. Her battle with mental illness is over now and we all carry the little pieces of her with us. Those of us who have been touched by suicide view life differently and I completely appreciate your humanity and compassion. I feel like I hear music and really pull something special from it, but somehow your perspective adds something even more. Thanks for all you do brother. You make this world a better place.
As others have mentioned, "Hi Ren" was the first song from Ren I had heard, and it is seriously a must-view. I haven't been affected by a song that much in a very long time. It has a similar theme to this, but cranks up the intensity a lot..
Check out Hi Ren. Sometimes you have to take meds AND work on yourself. That's how it works for some people.
Not for nothing, but 'balanced on my toes in the gallows' is a reference to being hung. You're hung in a gallows. So, balancing on your toes so you can breathe makes perfect sense, assuming your feet are very near the ground. Sounds more like someone who is very close to death AND life, holding on for that few seconds more.
I don't think this is the Ren song you were meant to be critiquing here! This song you're critiquing is gorgeous, but still comes nowhere CLOSE to his song 'Hi Ren'. 'Hi Ren' is one of the most extraordinary, unique, heart and soul piercing , yet at same time uplifting, works of musical art EVER! End of!
It's been just over a year since my psychotic break, I was found naked by a flooded river, I don't remember much about the day other than waking up with the conviction that that day was the day and being a poor swimmer, having no access to a firearm, a flooded river seemed like a logical choice for some reason. I'm told I had neatly folded my clothes and piled them up. I don't regret it, my only regret is that I delayed my intention. I don't have the courage to do that on a normal day but on that day something that I can't put into words happened in my head that made it seem like my only way out of life. It is probably hard for some to understand but I've lived from Affective Psychosis for 20 years, I've suffered with Complex Regional Pain Syndrome for over 10 years. I am sick of existing, but I want to live, I just don't want to exist in the broken shell I'm stuck with.
Michael, on your channel, I enjoy your analysis of the guitar in a song. I'm nearly 37, but I didn't become truly fascinated with the instrument until my mid to late 20s. Finally, at the age of 35, I decided to pick one up myself and it truly has changed my life. However, this reaction video has truly taken your content to another level. I am grateful that you are watching these videos without having any context going in, because your candid and unscripted reaction to this song and its heavy-hitting message shows just what an incredible person you are. Thank you.
yes
I have watched a few of your reactions to Ren and subscribed on the back of your excellent analysis and genuine honest observations.
Thanks also for trying to teach us some music theory.
I have to laugh and agree with you about the put, who does that!?
I have heard this before.
What kind of numpty does that???
Do people no longer have a sense of self preservation?
Stupid and ignorant as it is it's also frickin dangerous.
Thank you for your work, really enjoyed your facial reactions for Ren`s videos .
He doesn't seem to write about light subjects but each song, word, note and inflection is important and inspirational.
Thank you Ren for the journey and thank you Michael for being our wonderful guide.
Be well.
Just love this channel. My favorite on RUclips. Thanks for introducing me to this artist. My husband’s brother committed suicide in 1997 before I met him. His family has dedicated themselves to suicide prevention. I appreciate your openness and willingness to speak about mental health. ❤
Anyone notice aecond chorus harmony REN clearly goes for it with her in the moment and kills the notes I mean nails them in full voice. That's pure moment fill. Anyone who sings knows what I mean by that feeling to "Get there"
Thanks for the TS Elliot it sits so well alongside Chalk Outlines drawn so powerfully by Ren x Chinchilla, I came for your reaction I’m moved by your insight and understanding ❤
I swear to God, you're the first reactor after the song finished I actually listened to what you had to say. Your take, your investment your passion. Man, keep it up, its appreciated.
Chinchilla's voice is soooo pretty. The emotional desperation, wonderfully expressed. Great song, great pairing.
Never watched your channel Michael, but you're a soul brother. That's for sure.
I usually watch your videos to learn some good guitar information, licks, theory etc. but found your commentary on this artist very powerful and moving. As someone that has been fighting depression and bi-polar issues their entire life, I always found myself turning to the guitar / music for expression and solace. Maybe it's a generational thing, but I never thought of ending myself as an option. This gift of life you have been given is a marvel and you only go around once. Cherish it all.
I follow you for a while and i love your reactions. Im European and this guy is amazing! Doesn't belong to anyone and produces such great songs. Such freedom develops to such great things!
In the gallows I'm balanced on my toes so I can breathe - I take the meaning as Ren wants to live so badly he is desperately clinging onto life in whatever way he can
Absolutely my take too. The noose isn't a choice, it was put there. Trying to live despite everything rather than struggling with whether you want to or not.
I take it as the noose is the chokehold depression, mental illness, and even life can have on our lives and so balancing on our toes is symbolic of the attempts we make to stop it from getting tighter and choking out our hope.
i liked what you said about that 'last minute' - Ren mentions this again in Hi Ren, as the voice of hope, the voice you hear when the rope loosens - i know i don't have all that there. I was in a bad place when i first heard Ren and his music and energy pulled me out - gave me that day, and the next one. And that beautiful simplicity of the music. Ren is really talented , he really gets how to do this, no matter if he is quick rapping - i hear every word. Gold
Hi Ren is a must a master piece of music don't miss it you will be sorry .
Oh I’ve subbed. You know. You feel it. You hear it. You’ll sing it. I just LOVE it. I want to learn guitar so I can share my voice. My singing.
It’s so interesting how song lyrics can resonate in so many different ways. In my mind when I heard the “it’s a beautiful day, take it anyway.”
I interpreted that as those days where you actually start out feeling ok but maybe take a drug, or your antidepressants, as a buffer anyways.
I think when you struggle with chronic depression it’s a common feeling to fear just how long any given moment of relief will last without anticipating a fall again to where you were.
Knowing his history of misdiagnosis and also having listened to Sick Boi (... "Take another pill, here, take a couple more.
Let see how you're doing in another week or so" ... ), I'd say your interpretation is on point. Although of course, he's probably playing with that duality of interpretations himself.
I also missed the gallows line until you pointed it out. I had a friend take his own life a while back. And you’re so right about trying to take it back, he kicked holes in the wall trying to find a place to stand so he could breathe. It makes it even sadder imagining those last moments of desperation, and no control over his situation. I was also suicidal at that point in my life, and hearing about his trying to go back made me rethink a lot of things. As sad as it is, in some way or another I have him to thank for my being alive today.
Michael, thank you SO much for creating this channel. I only stumbled across it a few days ago. Probably because of my interest in Coulter, Shakey, Tyler Childers, etc... You have awesome content guided down the path of your subscribers... well done sir!! I stumbled on this one yesterday. My brother had severe addiction issues, and mental issues. His suicide and having to go into his apartment to find him was/is haunting, and feeling like WHAT COULD I HAVE DONE DIFFERENTLY?? It is something that has controlled my mind for 8+ years. I already am starting to understand some things listening to some of your content...a huge thanks for that. I am also a "stuck" guitar player. I am going to jump on your site and sign up to learn from you.
You’ve met Ren previously looking at a busking performance by The Big Push.
Loved that and love this.
Ren Gill has a body of self produced work that is wide ranging. His mates from the currently disbanded The Big Push are, and have been making great unique music that is well worth a listen. Very talented musicians lyricists and singers in their own right.
Thank you for looking at Chalk Outlines. It has that simplicity so that the message hits you straight on with a BANG❗️
im shocked he didn't noticed that.
Talent meets a monent of destiny. Ren's "Hi Ren" touched a nerve. If Ren didn't have the ability to pull off these songs they wouldn't have the impact they do. A great song meets a great perfomance. I hope Ren finds peace where he is going, he does not have an easy road ahead by his own admission. Thanks Ren, keep making music for us all.
Versatility is one of the many great things about Ren. Very few people have done a Chalk Outlines reaction, and if this is the first you've seen of Ren, prepare to be amazed when you see what else he can do. "Hi Ren" and "The Tale of Jenny and Screech (Full)" are the two obvious choices to blow your mind, and they're both guitar-based. He's also a great rapper, making both humorous ("What You Want", "1990s") and topical ("Money Game, Pt. 2") songs.
What you want is beastie boys. It's great.
I never heard anything like the tale of jenny and screech. One of the most unique and awesome things i ever heard
Don't forget violates tale too. Really rounds out the tale.
That is so interesting that you took the last section "It's a beautiful day, take it just in case..." as a line of hope. I heard it as the inner voice telling you that, despite it being a beautiful day, when everything seems okay, you should still take that pill, literal or metaphorical, to protect yourself from the demons that you feel right around the corner. The voice of addiction, of temptation, desperation. But I'm glad to hear it in a new light now. Thanks for reviewing this.
Someone I know just committed suicide. He left information saying he felt like no one liked him and that he didnt fit in. He had so many people at the funeral that people couldn’t fit in the church. Our minds sometimes keep us from realizing that we are loved and we are important. Hopefully this will lead more people like me to be intentional in showing others they are important and not just assuming they know
I remember watching your The Big Push reaction probably over a year back and being so happy they were getting at least a tiny bit of recognition by an awesome reaction RUclipsr.
Fast forward to now, the band currently not playing together anymore, but "Hi Ren" making big waves throughout the music reaction side of RUclips and Ren finally being exposed to more people.
I'm really glad he is, because just as back then, I truly believe in the power his music holds and his indescribable passion for it.
He's an absolute powerhouse but also just a lovely guy, I'll always think fondly of when I met him and the rest of TBP on their tour last year.
I'm excited to see where your journey through his material takes you and can't wait for you to get a chance to fall in love with his music, too.
Lots of love, brother.
Keep at it.
The band is still playing together, they are on hiatus while Ren gets treated for Lyme disease. I watched them play live at the Brighton Dome back in September 2022 and they were absolutely mind-blowing.
@@guidoscalise I know, that's why I said currently. ;)
Busking as TBP would be kinda hard with a fourth of the band in Canada.
But yeah, my family and I caught them in August at their last show before they got Covid last year, they are incredible. 💛
Had it not been for HI REN I wouldn't have discovered him, just like so many have recently, but HI REN, to me, is a freaking masterpiece. I expected that this video was going to cover that song. Nevertheless, REN is something special. Glad to see he's getting his props now.
Loved your reaction, not the usual guitar lead reaction, and rightly so, you nailed it. The 'traced', and 'erased' chalk outlines analogy hit me so hard. If you have ever taken anti-depressants (I have been through 6 different anti-depressant medication cycles in as many years), they take away who you are inside, you no longer feel anything, you become emotionally stifled, you are just a 'chalk outline' of who you used to be. the line 'you erase yourself in a chalk outline' is exactly that... you erase who you are in this chalk outline... it is so eloquent and such a perfect analogy for me, it might mean something else to somebody else, but this is what it meant to me. I wish I had heard this years ago, but I suppose I had to wait until Ren had written it first. 😀
“Do anything except the work on you” - nailed it ❤
Thank you for doing a reaction to one of the songs that hasn't been 'discovered' yet. He has so much amazing music and amazing in so many different ways. Hope you enjoy your journey through the Ren rabbit hole.
It’s amazing how many of these young guys (NF, Tom McDonald, and Ren, to name those I have recently found by RUclips), mostly rapping and singing some, are pouring their soul out in these songs about hanging on, despite internal torment, whether they screwed up earlier in life or not. Last popular music I recall that did that was maybe REM with “Everybody Hurts”, but I haven’t been following newer music for several years. Well, these days are pretty good for that material.
All the blessing to Ren and you too of course
Thank you Michael!! I appreciate your attention to mental health issues etc. In addition to all your great advice on playing.
Fuck, I'm rewatching this and crying. I love your reaction to this one. And I love this song. Great video all around,
You didn't miss it by doing this tune. This is quite an incredible song too. Great job on the analysis.
Hi Micheal
Normally just a viewer and not a commenter but I feel like I need to add here I have been listening too and watching REN for many years he actually helped me and my girlfriend reconnect as we both love him and he is not as well known as he should be (I wish him all the luck in this journey getting through his medical journey) but one of my favourite songs of his is diazipam there is some also guitar playing in it and powerful words too well worth a listen even if you don't review it just treat yourself
Your reactions about heavy stuff are important. You have a very good way of talking about the subjects. Would really love to hear you react to How To Be Me (live version) by these same two. Exceptional and important.
Been following you for a while, this reaction was.. well can not find the word but you embodied the experience of the viewer for this REN view and the whole emotion of their message.
Great reaction. I love this song; it moves me to tears every time. I only recently learned about Ren and have gone down this rabbit hole ever since. Many of the subjects, experiences, and emotions expressed in his songs touch me on a very personal level because I can relate to and identify with many of his struggles. "Hi Ren" is the song that recently went viral and brought Ren to everyone's attention. It is a must see, and I hope that you will watch it, whether in a reaction or in the privacy of your home.
A little background on Ren that I gathered from the internet. Ren pursued a career in music from an early age. In 2009, while studying music performance at Bath Spa University, he 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. His illness often kept him in bed for up to 23 hours a day. Ren was initially diagnosed with depression, bipolar disorder, and chronic fatigue syndrome. It would take seven years before he was finally diagnosed correctly with autoimmunity, Lyme disease, and brain damage. Ren eventually underwent stem cell therapy in the United States, which improved his health, but it has not been a cure. He is currently in Canada for more treatments.
Ren is an incredible and unique artist; he plays multiple instruments, has great vocal ability, is an excellent storyteller, and is quite the philosopher and poet. From what I read, his videos are shot live, all in one take by his friend. I recommend you check out some of his other work. The trilogy "The Tale of Jenny/Screech/Violet" is haunting and has an unexpected ending; WATCH THEM IN THE STATED ORDER, as this is the flow of the storyline or just watch “The Tale of Jenny & Screech (Full)” which includes “Violet’s Tale at the end. It is another example of Ren’s genius and a master’s class in storytelling.
His song "Money Game" (Part I & II) is another recommendation. If you like his personal reflections, they 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. As a solo act, Ren performs a range of genres, much of it hip-hop/rap influenced, as well as guitar-based ballads.
His collaborations with Sam Tompkins (“Blind Eyed,” “Earned it /Mans World / Falling”), with Chinchilla (“How to Be Me,” “Chalk Outlines”), with Eden Nash (“Humble,” “Ocean”), with Bibi (“Crutch,” “Ahiahiaoha”), with Molly McKinna (“Penitence”), with his former band mate, Romain Axisa (“French Song”) and any of his performances as a member of the band "The Big Push" (which unfortunately broke up) are awesome and well worth checking out, both the busking (street performances) and their live recordings. Ren has impressive vocal and instrumental skills. He is one-of-a-kind and appears mature beyond his years.
Ren released just his latest single, “Sick Boi.” In anticipation of his stay in Canada for more treatments, Ren prepared some music ahead of time to be released over the next 3-6 months that he expects to be gone.
you have great taste in pens @Michael Palmisano
also, really enjoy your videos homie. keep up the incredible work.
This is good (all his stuff is), but Hi Ren was the song you were looking for! An absolute piece of art. Best song and performance I've seen in many years.
Agree with your views on this 👍
Agreed. Would be great to see Michael cover Hi Ren. That piece is something else.
Hi Ren is the best 9 minutes of per art that I have ever seen. Mesmerizing. I was transfixed the first time I saw it.
From the days of Trick the Fox to Love music (Twenty tracks still available on Bandcamp ) to Freckled Angles and The Big Push, Ren knows how to play great music,writes insightful lyrics and knows how to tug at human emotions. Can never get enough of this guy.
I knew the day would come, where I'd have to share him with the world. Happy for Ren, but sad for me....
I feel exactly like that too.
So glad I ve subscribed to your channel.Love you, dude...and thank you.
I'm in tears watching this. This is so relevant to someone very dear to me. Thank you. On a different note, the whole blanket/tarp issue has been raging in the Phish community for a while now.
Glad it touched something in you. It certainly did me. Oh I’m sure. I can’t imagine that flying in any other scene / genre… except maybe kids shows.
@@Guitargate you probably won’t see this comment… anyhooow. Check out his video “REN - Violet’s Tale”. Look closely…. It’s a live recording. At first I thought “not possible” the lapel mic is just a gimmick but (to my ears at least) the change in reverb confirms it 🤯
Barely ever comment but I just want to thank you for such a strong, vulnerable, raw speech on a heavy issue that we, especially men, need to keep talking about. You’re so real man x
Such a powerful message and song writing. Love REN. 💙
That was great, dude! You make a difference in peoples lives not just because you introduce people to new music, but you also bring a unique perspective to my understanding of music. Thanks!
I've been a Ren fan for years. I am praying he conquers his health struggles and becomes the massive star that the world needs 🙏
Yeah, I was excited that Friday was finally here looking forward to playing my guitar and watching some RUclips including you to relax and learn to play better...and then you jumped into the deep end of not the pool but the deep end but the ocean! You, however, handled this video well! The song has so much biting emotion; intense, biting, thought provoking, artistry. We need this side of music to go along with the happy love songs we get inundated with. Yeah, the video added so much! You are correct. We all deal with this issue to some degree and as artists we can't ignore that aspect of creating music. Coming from an older artist; but only older according to the calendar. Keep up the good work.
Michael, I just wanted to say Thank you for this video and your review and commentary of Hi Ren as well. I must admit I have never heard of Ren, but these two videos have been amazing. Being the parent of a daughter who has many struggles with mental illness, I have seen her stare the demon in the face on many occasions. I have seen her walk to the edge and look in vain for reasons to step back instead of over. I have shared these videos with her in hopes that they can get through to her what I have never been able to put into words, in hopes that she can balance on her toes just one more day, so she can breathe.
Holy smoke, But they are singing that live!! Raw and immediate and intimate. They are totally in the moment and feeding off each other. Fantastic!
This is one of my FAVORITE Ren songs. He's an amazing artist, musician, and human. PLEASEEEEEE react to Hi Ren, and then also......Jenny's Tale, Screech's Tale, and lastly Violet's Tale...in that SPECIFIC order. The guitar playing, the live one takes, the lyrics....A MASTERPIECE. Your mind will be blown!!!
I like how you mentioned “real stuff comes out of necessity”. So let me be real here, cause I really need to. Micheal I don’t know what it is about you but your videos touch my soul very often. I can’t put a finger on it, but it’s some kind of mixture of you being a parent a guitar player and man with a soft heart who is not afraid to show it that I can heavily relate to. Many of your videos have brought my tears out and have given me new strength at the same time. I needed to say that. Thank for what you are doing and for being real! From the bottom of my ❤
This is great too and I'm happy you covered it. "Hi Ren" is the one that is getting a lot of attention at the moment.
Michael. I really appreciate the way you speak about inner struggle and suicide here. As you say, a fascinating subject that touches us all. I have been watching you for a while (I don't even play guitar, I just like your content). I remember watching Ren years ago from his busking and forgot all about him. I have been transfixed by the current music and the way it is touching people.
All I want to say is that the way you react to this, the way you speak, matters. It's not sad, it's not a plea, and it's not an outlier of human feeling. We all feel this way, or we all have to deal with it at some point. That comes through man. Thank you.
Finally, my dad took his own life when I was 6. He was a good man, there is no rational reason that any of us know why he did it... Yet he did. And I have typed this to share the one line that helped me cope and understand. Over a lifetime. And it sounds odd, but if you really empathise it can help if you have lost someone to suicide.
By the enlightened Scottish Philosopher of the 18th Century - David Hume.
“No man ever threw away life while it was worth keeping.”
― David Hume, Essays on Suicide and the Immortality of the Soul
On the surface it sounds unacceptable. Of course all life is worth keeping... but, consider it from that person's POV. To get to THAT point, they are in a mental place where it is truly the only option. For them. If we can accept that? We can learn to be less angry at their ultimate decision and just love them despite their final act.
To all of those affected, struggling.. or who are still reading this??
I love ye all. Take care. Go stick on a good tune and let us make it through another day together.
x
I wanted to hate this so much when it first started. By the end I was almost in tears. Great song writing and powerful message. Definitely going to check out more.
We write these songs so we can heal. Music is very personal but easily applied over vast emotional substrates.
It's a way to find peace in chaos.
It's sublime.
Ren is amazing - Hi Ren is the song you want MP
Today is the greatest day I've ever known/ can't live for tomorrow, tomorrow's just too long.
Ren is a damn god send. Old story, but new. Waiting on some more SP, my friend! Similar stories.........
The truth about suicide and attempting suicide is simply this. The ones who "succeed" are the ones who go quick. Attempting suicide is against everything our make up tells us. It's anathema to everything we are and attempting suicide is a moment of exhaustion, a moment of true insanity. If you don't do it quick, no matter how badly you hurt yourself, you can still hit a moment of clarity. That's really the crux of it. If you are left to linger, you hit that moment of clarity and self preservation and you react accordingly. Committing suicide isn't about weakness. Some of the strongest people have committed suicide in that moment of insanity. In that moment of just needing not to be. They probably didn't even want to exit off the mortal coil, they just didn't see another way because the exhaustion distorts perception.
An important part of this song is that eye contact between them. That bridge of empathy they experience because they have a similar baseline. That strength they draw from knowing they aren't alone. Taking medication can destroy everything you are, your creativity, your potential. We trace ourselves in these chalk outlines because you have to comply with medication or they will refuse to help you.
Thank you for your reaction. I greatly enjoyed your perspective on this song and appreciate your work!
Michael, this is a great song, but the one that's blowing up all over the place and is one of the greatest pieces of performance art you'll ever see is "Hi Ren". It's completely MIND-BLOWING. PLEASE, if you never react to another Ren video, you HAVE to check this one out, I PROMISE you, you'll be blown away and be glad you did!
Thanks and keep up the great work on one of the best channels on RUclips!
That really resonated with me. “We’ve thought about, romanticised about it, felt guilty about it but also kind of like it”. That is me exactly,
You actually reacted to Ren a couple years ago with the band Big Push. He is an Artist with a capital "A". And I reiterate what others are saying. All his stuff is cool but you must go watch Hi Ren. It is something else entirely. I also love the trilogy of Violet, Jenny and Screetch. You must watch all three and in order.
"Everything happens in an instant. Every part of your life is instantaneously" Thank you. Never know what you need to hear till you hear it.
Gonna recommend Hi Ren like everyone else, but also Violet’s Tale
The twist in Violet and Screech's Tale reminds me of Immortal Technique and Dance with the Devil.
😭Thanks for making me feel less alone and restoring some faith in loving humanity. Emotional intelligence is still unknown to many, you have it in spades. Grief and trauma, ignorance and cruelty, can blow a person to pieces, only love can put us back together. Thankyou.
Ren is one of the most talented individuals I have experienced. Listen to all of his stuff. He has such a wide array of talent. You will love it. His stuff with the Big Push and the street busking is phenomenal. Rabbit hole worth diving into.
So powerful and moving. Your compassion for the topic was felt.
YES! Been so impressed by his talent for years! I’m so thrilled so see him getting SOME of the attention deserved