The singer I mentioned has a channel called Nicole Maria Sings (ru-vid.com/video/%D0%B2%D0%B8%D0%B4%D0%B5%D0%BE-atckNyVXH0U.htmlsi=IfsWjtEHfs25Twcv). I got mixed up re her song reaction though, it was published a day ago but was in fact Hi Ren. She seems to have been found already by a lot of you and is already putting public posts up asking which Ren song to react to next.
Watched her yesterday. It was ethereal. I wasn’t sure what to make of it at first, but she really did a great job interpreting the whole piece. Not an easy task to take on. Hats off to her.
I know why i do, i am a middle-aged man that has no friends and watching reaction videos sort of feels like sharing something i like with friends and i don't feel so lonely anymore.
@@janeykidd72 I'm not sad, I choose to be alone (not lonely out of choice.) People like you ( no diss intended) can't comprehend that some people are happy on their own.
Same. while I do choose to be alone due to constant physical pain, it does get to me over time. Reaction videos definitely help with that, as well as my obsession with Ren creations.
Obsessed? Does creating a playlist with 1300 reactions to 1 song count as obsessed? What about taking clips from 10 reactions & doing a 2hr reaction to that? What about making a YT channel dedicated to collecting all Ren reactions? If they count, then maybe Im obsessed 😂
@LeeannG I'm moving all my playlists to this account & making them public, apart from Hi Ren Reactions which will stay on my chiefaberach account for now. ru-vid.com/group/PLvQ9PT7Tdzm0oWcg8u_v77mnqNIjZ3lMo&si=z232Lv9cJr20UXWU
To me, there’s pure joy in seeing someone see REN for the first time. Is like I’m living through that first time again every time. Artists like him come along only once in a generation.
Yes, 61 year old Scottish woman here. Since I watched Justin Hawkins reacting to Hi Ren, I’m just addicted to not only reactions but the material that REN puts out. He is one of a kind, multi talented and surrounds himself with other talented individuals. It’s addictive.
Ren is a creator of creators. I've watched dozens of channels that were created by Rens content. I've watched them go from less than a hundred to thousands of subscribers in days. Ren is about raising all boats and that's his greatest lesson of all.
I deliberately didn't put his channel name here at first, I felt like that might have been perceived as trying to take advantage when I wanted to do was be a fan girl! It's clear from peoples comments my good intentions were seen, which I am very grateful for. Perhaps that's just the type of energy that Ren inspires?
@@JoanneWhitlock I know I've definitely felt a predominantly positive energy in comment sections on Ren's videos and reaction videos to Ren's work, so... yeah, I think it is. And if you haven't seen it, his "diss" track on King Dotta (referenced in Kujo Beat Down, name "Dumb King Come") is exemplary of this!
I think two of the reasons why I keep checking reaction videos on Ren's art, are: 1. The authenticity and honesty he brings to the table is something we truly long for on a deeper level as humans. 2. As someone else said before me - the opportunity to see a person change, see them as a person before and after watching Hi Ren (as a good example). And here is a third reason, and it is that he helps so many people understand that they are not alone in their struggles in life. It makes me glad to see you talk about your need for Ren reaction videos. I also need them on a regular basis. I thirst for more authenticity in the world. So thank you for bringing this up in a video! 🙏❤️
love that expression 'thirst for more authenticity'. That is how this whole thing got started. I was fed up with feeling so bad after coming off social media, I just felt like people saw me as an open purse for themselves. Although I was watching Ren reaction videos I had no idea this community existed, and I definitely had no idea of the generosity and openness I would be exposed to. Thank you for such a lovely comment.
I do this too, I think that everything Ren does is so purposeful that watching different reactors, be they vocal coaches, rappers, film makers, producers, or therapists always pick up on slightly different things, which makes me notice so much more. Plus, I just like to see if other people get the same jaw dropping, eye popping reaction that I do when I watch an artistic genius at work! 😍
Yep, it's both things for me too. I want to see the emotional reaction and I love the different insights too. You were one of my very early comments - thank you! It's been a wild day.
Ren reaction addict here 👍 Finally someone speaking my thoughts out. It is bizarre how much time I've spent watching reactions to his song. And it frightens me, to be honest. There's something unsettling in feeling exactly what you have mentioned - reliving and connection - while sitting alone for hours stuck to the flashing screen. Is this how life now has to be lived?
@@kolasinskipiotr does it make you want to create something too? I must admit to a pang of envy re having friends to bounce ideas off re creating like he seems to. I figure I have to go first and hopefully I will find my people! I’m also super curious how you learn visual storytelling like that too. Thank you for taking the time to comment, this video was an oddball for me and I definitely hesitated before posting!
I've started having regular l gatherings based around watching Ren reactions together. We've turned it into a ritual. There are people I've connected with purely through Ren, even though I'm in regional Western Australia I've found and created so many Renegades. We all realised our addiction, and realised sharing it helped mitigate the damage done
@JoanneWhitlock Actually it holds me back from creating, because I'm stuck to the screen 😂 I used to make music, photography, pottery, some upcycling projects. Now I'm just reactions junkie 😀
I have been following Ren since about two weeks after the release of Hi Ren and was also completely compelled to watch others react to his art installations. Ren is a breath of fresh air in the music industry and the way he does stuff is on another level. I'm glad that you are seeing what he is doing and how he is using this platform in an interactive way. He has created a culture that like his music is diverse but also positive. I feel that with every time someone refers to the RENegades they understand that the world is getting more positive and cultured. Ren's positivity breeds more positive energy. It is so addictive. You have made this RENegade happy and something that we do for him is subscribe and share our love.
I wrote this poem last year watching all the reactions to Ren. Sometimes an action Enacts a reaction But needs re-reaction to capture the traction A Singularity's fraction Of Black hole Attraction fulfil satisfaction In the tomb of a black sun That We should shun But cannot run from This empty plate before which we prostrate Decimated, left to beg and scrape Estimated to attempt escape But fail To scale the walls of the estate And fall Misjudged harshly by a psycho society Framing the torture as a mild impropriety While one petty spree fucks a mind mightily The chain of the pain It is cutting so tightily a desperate mentality Like A Kombat fatality That Becomes just banality Celebrity violence Keeping peace keeping silence While the soul of a thief Steals your belief In a system So ridden with greed and with grief But let's go let go Break it like Lego Let go, pull it down Just so So it can regrow New life Revives New eyes And The old lies Die In the light The Rebirth of the sky After the night Shows us this path Is righteous Why they are so frightened to fight us Some actions Demand a reaction And re-reaction And then re-re-reaction And keep rewinding Until it is Undone And we can lay a better Foundation, right here and now In my case in London
@@JoanneWhitlock I mainly post on Facebook but I have some books.. Thanks for your video, I look forward to seeing more of your channel. Light and peace
First of all i don't think there is a typical Ren fan, his music is listened to across all generations, im 66 years old and never really listened to Rap before except maybe a bit of Eminem from my kids but i feel just like you, i think i may be a bit obsessed. I love watching the reaction videos, ive never wanted to be on that side of the camera. Through Ren and his community I have met some of the nicest people you could ever wish to meet and at the end of July i stepped outside my comfort zone and went to my first ever music festival on my own (my family thought i was mad) so I could see Ren and friends live. It was totally worth it, there was something special about that community where you didnt feel out of place no matter what you were struggling with and so if thats what you call being obsessed then i dont care what im labelled, I'll say it myself I'm obsessed and thank you for making this video, you have now added to my day ❤
I'm 66 too. A lifelong music lover, theater lover, etc. His "Hi Ren" is a theater piece and should be built out into a play or something! It is very beautiful and creative. I am also a survivor of suicide, and I wish my love could have heard this before he took the path he did. I have also been at the precipice, and this is exactly what I heard... 'heard' the voice. It said to me; 'Forgive yourself.' as if, my prayers going up were, 'Please forgive me.' and the answer was, I already have, forgive yourself... which I equate with the 'relax' part. Anyways. I love Ren's path in musicality and theater. Who doesn't love a good story from a Welshman?
I'm right there with everyone else but we should be honest and say that spending so large amounts of time in front of a computer screen for any reason, isn't healthy for us in the long run. The struggle is real.
LOVE LOVE THIS!! This is so true!! I am 37 yrs old with no family nor really any friends. So, I get COMMUNITY out of the reaction videos. The internet has taken away human connection in a way (physically), but it has also made us all connected around the world. Oi, love what you said. I wont get all sad lol 🖤😊
I've been thinking a lot lately about how empty some social media leaves me feeling and I decided to send a signal out to find my people. Today is day 104 (I think!) of doing daily 1 1/2 min videos as I was so scared to hit record, I can't tell you how happy I was to see your comment. Thank you
Hun I know what you mean. I watched the premier of the song at 7pm. Then watched his Twitch stream. Before I knew it, it was after midnight and I had saw god only knows how many reactions to it. I felt like no time had passed. Glad to know I wasn’t the only one. 💕💕
I've been the same way since HI Ren. it's addicting for me. I've watched hundreds of reactions to each video. it's amazing !! thanks for doing this video!!
You're definitely not alone. These videos struck you deeply, and now you want to share that feeling with others and experience it again through their reactions. That's the power of profound art-it draws people in, connecting us through shared emotions and experiences that create a moment or leave a impact.
It's so strange that I was so hesitant to share this video (or even film it), in my little world (my household!) I would get all excited and wanted to talk about it and no one got it!
I go in cycles. When a song first comes out I like reliving my first viewing experience. Later I’ll start catching the analysers which helps me understand what’s so good about it/him. Plus I’ve learned about music and singing in ways I never did before.
Thanks so much for so openly and vulnerably articulating all this. As a recent Ren discoverer who has gone down the same reaction rabbit hole recently, I can relate to a lot of what you said, and I think you hit the nail on the head when you talk about watching reactions as a way to recapture--and share--how we feel about Ren's (or whichever artist's) music. As humans, we crave shared experience...and it’s interesting to me how technology is influencing how we share. So thank *you* for your take on all this!
Yes ... so insightful. I feel the same. I watch a video Ren drops ... then hour after hour I refresh and look for the newest reactions. I am so drawn to the struggles he has been through. I am so drawn to the genius of his artwork. I am so drawn to the amazing vocals and instruments. Ren checks all the boxes. His ability to paint a story that draws me in ... is more powerful than anything I have experienced in music since I was a teenager.
All I know is it's awfully crowded way down here in the rabbit hole. Great video. I haven't been creative in over 40 years, but I'm also a fan of creatives, so liked and subscribed anyhow.
I enjoyed watching your video. 😊 Btw one thing I know for sure is there is no “average Ren fan” because we are all unique and wonderful in our own way, we all love him for our own reason, but we come together through him; and that is what I love about the Renegades community. Of which you are definitely a part! 💛 We are all so engrossed with Ren’s music, lyrics and videos. The reaction community does such a beautiful job in supporting and helping promote Ren and I love how you are acknowledging the value they bring. I truly love and am fascinated by the whole range and diversity of people from all the different walks of life who react creatively to Ren, it is amazing.
Lol. I've been doing the same thing since hi Ren came out. He just you he just pulls on peoples heart strings and he is such a damn good musician. And so are his friends. So many of us can relate in many ways. And its people from all walks of life and ages. He's a musical genius
Thanks for sharing your thoughts. I've been amazed at how much effort Ren puts into his videos. Just the Animal Flow video with the intersection between an homage to director Stanley Kubrick and the themes of the book Animal Farm, is so brilliant. I understand some people don't catch easter eggs like the german shepherd with the sheep on a leash is a nod to Eyes Wide Shut, but those people still enjoy the music immensely. Ren's music videos really are on another level. I'm also a Ren reaction video addict. Glad to see I'm not alone.
I really appreciate what you’re saying. The reactions add so many layers to the songs. Without them, I would miss so much! I’m also obsessed. And I feel I almost HAVE to watch the reaction videos to them to support the reactors. I love some of the reactors and have met some amazing people in the comments too. Edit: who was the reactor who sang over it?
Wow....just happened to pop onto your reaction video by accident. Thank you!!! For adding More Value to what Ren has started at bringing people from all walks of life together. Keep doing what your doing. Speaking as a fellow reaction video addict, YOU have personally put my faith back in check when it comes to people just wanting to connect! I hope Ren sees this particular video you put out. He'd be very proud of the impact your trying, And Making, happen!! Much respect from a voice in Florida!!❤
oh my goodness me, thank you for such a lovely comment. Earlier this year I felt so discouraged by social media etc and that others saw me just as an open purse (or that they wished I was). I decided to make some changes but I have been really flying by the seat of my pants! I'm all for making a living but so wanted to find my people who I could excited with, maybe geek out a little and be a fan girl! Your comment was incredibly generous of you, thank you.
You say out of your depth, you are just being honest and genuine and that’s what people are seeing. You don’t have to be totally knowledgeable about a subject just honest and enthusiastic.
first 30 seconds are literally how I feel... lol i discovered him a few weeks ago only, it started pretty soft, then i started watching the reactions, then a new song, then wanting to see every reaction to it, and new song... and its a loop.... i just love the man... the music, the videos, the performances, the lyrics, the beats, the message! and he looks like such a nice guy and so down to earth, which for me is such an added value seeing how many shitty people become huge artists and turn into untreatable divas....
Funnily enough, I found Ren though a Sudoku channel whose setters had found Ren and set up some Sudoku's to do in honor of Ren's release of the Sick Boi album. I haven't been able to get enough of watching the original songs and every reactor to each of them that I can find. I love how each reactor brings something new to palate of Ren's music.
Hi. We have the same affliction. I think it’s also about building understanding by acquiring different perspectives. I’m driven by a desire to understand what I felt and it keeps me coming back for more.
Guilty as charged! LOL, 😁 I'm less then 300 Ren videos or Ren reactions videos from 5000! Ren's music has been in my life daily since I first hear Hi Ren almost 2 years ago. He has REN-EWED my mind, heart and soul in ways I can hardly explain. It's almost like I'm really hearing music for the 1st time in my life and I'm 54 year old music lover!! I also never had music move me to tears, but some of Ren's music has had me crying my eyes out. I appreciate your video well done! 😊
thank you, and thank you so much for sharing your reaction to Ren. Although he is amazing I really wanted to let those that make the reaction videos know that they are adding tonnes of value too.
Brilliant and love your openness. It’s a question I ask myself. I initially found ren through Hi Ren,. It was a jaw dropping moment. I then fell in to the Ren rabbit hole and discovered an artist who is so talented. Married to this is the ability to articulate his personal story and his social commentary with amazing literary references everywhere. I too, like you enjoy much more educated people than me pointing things out and I also love seeing the same visceral reaction I have. It’s joyous and also affirming my own experience. I’m 60 years old and have seen so many great artists, Pink Floyd Animals tour in ‘ 77 was my first live concert and I have never seen an artist like Ren.
@@EdB-w7i thank you so much for commenting, I was so scared to post this video. It seemed so off topic yet it really impacted me, not just his work but the work from others that flowed from it. I feel like there’s something more to learn from it. I would love to know his creative process but feel like I am too outside that world to go to patreon! Again, thanks for stopping to comment. You made my night.
@@JoanneWhitlock I have asked him in a comment, if he gets inspiration from sounds in nature, or every day man made sounds, but understandably, had no reply. I am not on social media, so can't ask in a live. I will have to wait for someone else with the same curiosity to ask.
Thank you for posting this! I love feeling connected to people from all different backgrounds in our love of the same music. It reaffirms my faith in humanity, the idea that we’re all more similar than different. The idea that I-a 48 year old suburban mom in Chicago-is in love with the same music as an opera singer in Britain or a rapper in Brooklyn or a veteran or a music producer is something that never gets old. Getting to watch their faces as they delight in the same moments I’ve delighted in is like getting to open a Christmas present over and over again and it’s new and wonderful every time.
Thank you for sharing your thoughts, truly appreciated. I’m a 54 year old man and was stuck in a loop of 80s music. It’s because of RU-vid reaction videos that I discovered Ren back in July. Nobody has had this impact on me ever before, the rawness and openness of his music is what draws you in and he’s embraced his fan base and the reaction community as his extended family. It’s a beautiful thing and being in this rabbit hole is like a warm blanket. Thanks again.
I agree. I kept trying to update my music tastes but just didn't feel it. I think tapping into the story telling with visuals etc has really captured my attention.
This could be me, at 66 some may say im in the wrong place, you said you're not even sure if you're using the right terms ,Me Too! But the renegade community are so welcoming.so i agree with all that you said and I'll add, as a Brit, im so proud of our boy Ren. Im from near Brighton and he films alot of his vids there, so that could be why i feel that. When he says this is the Britain i know the Britain i love it really moves me, what a dork i am,😅.So good vid, ive subbed❤
I've never been to Brighton, I'm up in the Midlands (did you hear my Brummie twang?). Thank you for commenting, this is a very small, very new channel and so many people commenting is quite overwhelming and totally lovely
Love this, thank you. I love the rabbit hole, the reaction videos and Ren’s followers are creating a community network of positivity, belief and strength. I can feel the vibes, it’s lovely and what Ren is doing here, it’s truly inspiring. ❤
Hey, I just watched your video (obviously) and you pretty much nailed it. I think it was June 2023 that I first heard Ren - my grandson played Hi Ren in the car on the school run and I've been addicted ever since. First it was his outstanding talent - guitar and voice in Hi Ren that grabbed me, swiftly followed by the poetry of his lyrics. 20ish years earlier my son would play Eminem in the car (ejecting my classical cd to do so) and Eminem's wordplay and style also grabbed me, but in between Eminem and Ren I didn't listen to anything else but classical. Now, Ren's versatility of styles, instruments, expression, story telling, authenticity, rawness, beautiful voice and humanity are compelling. Your take on experiencing all that again thru reactors is spot on, that their observations from their particular expertise adds another dimension. Lol, shall I mention, as a 71 year old granny, that Ren is also delectable eye-candy? No, better not :D Cheers!
I can answer your introduction question easily, because he's the best musician of our time, and few have heard of him! He's a modern day savant, and beyond that he's quite humble and a thoughtful young man with manners, and that's rare in todays society! I too love watching peoples first reactions to REN, IMO he's the new gold standard in music today.. Cheers
As a 68 year old some art artists and musicians just resonate with a certain fan base. Ren is a rensonator. If there is such a thing. I'm just grateful to still be alive in the moment.
@JoanneWhitlock I've watched all of rens RU-vid releases and even purchased the sick boi album on cd and vynl as a gift for my stepdaughters 20 year old. I never tire of watching reactions of his music. Everyone is unique in its own creativity. I'm a beatles Fleetwood mac era. Lost all taste in music till ren came along. This young man can leave a legacy for so many so long as he can keep well in his journey through life. I, like thousands more, can not thank him enough for the message's he leaves within his songs.
I agree. I think watching reaction videos in general is an attempt to understand and connect with authentic human emotions, its like this little flash of gold thats lacking in our repressed normality.
I had to read this a few times. I fee like there is something more in your words that I haven't quite seen. Have written it out to ponder on. Thank you. Are you a poet or a writer?
@@JoanneWhitlocki am both! The unsaid is possibly an implication that we are starved of authentic human emotions in our relationships because everyone is trying to present a perfect persona, and in a reaction to something really moving (like Ren) we can see a glimpse of what lies underneath - as Ren calls it, the human that stumbles and struggles through life.
@@mandygoff5339 ok, I feel new to this world, did he say about seeing a glimpse of what is beneath in a particular song? I would like to hear more about this. And do you share your work publicly?
Ren owes much of his current success to reactors. He had been putting out absolutely amazing stuff for years, and not getting any algorithmic traction. He put out Hi Ren just as the reactions phenomenon started really taking off. Hi Ren was a hit among reactors, and all of a sudden, Ren was a year away from a #1 album. Makes you wonder how much talent is hidden in algorithmic obscurity.
Addict here. He is like no other. The reaction community has definitely helped me understand exactly how intelligent, creative and mind blowing Ren actually is. I love watching a first-time reaction and how blown away they are at how talented Ren is. It's way too easy to be addicted to this.
I feel that way... I connect to him because I am a long term pain sufferer and Ren knows long term pain and what it does to someone both physically and mentally but the reactors themselves keep me coming back they are kinda my friends and I am sharing my love of Ren and I learn so much from so many of them and they themselves make my life better so I too thank them
I am sorry to hear about your long term pain but happy to hear you have found pleasure in these areas. I feel like I am dipping my toes into lots of different creative fields at the moment ... not sure where I will end up!
spot on i'm the same after every song he drops i watch reaction videos and love the insight they give. they all break down the song in a different way and make the music more enjoyable. x
Same, sister! So addictive. I think there’s something happening that intuitively tells us we’re bearing witness to a once in a generation artist who is tapping into our humanity in a uniquely compelling manner. This intuition pulls us in and fans the flames of curiosity and in turn builds connection. Totally agree with everything you shared. 😊
Thank you. I was just googling this very idea - there must be a name for it? When you see it you know it's something special? And I don't mean your taste but something more transcendent. (I had to look up how to spell that, I hope you are impressed!)
@@JoanneWhitlock exactly! I’ve used transcendent to describe REN’s work as well. Let me know if you find another way through your research to articulate this phenomenon. He’s tapping into something we’re apparently hungry for - namely transparency, vulnerability, humility, authenticity, and a sense prioritizing the greater good. In my 40’s and I’ve never experienced this with an artist before.
There is no average Ren fan. The age range is wide (I'm 71, a lifelong Pink Floyd, Led Zeppelin, Crosby Stills and Nash, etc, etc, fan) . I have loved learning about artists i haven't heard of and adding some of them to my listening list. I started watching reactions about 5 years ago, to see how young people reacted to the above named established acts. Ive been blown away at how open young folk are to what came before and how some if their current favourites were inspired by past artists. Reaction channels have restored my faith in humanity. Ren has been the cherry on top of the icing on the cake 😊
I have felt as I have gotten older that my music tastes were stuck in the past, and worse that I had just gotten out of the habit of listening. I love that Ren has opened that door again for me.
This has been shared to my RENactions! FB group - which I set up 18 months ago as my addiction to Ren reactions (which I didn't even know was a thing until Hi Ren!) - and the comments on those- showed there was a hunger for it with fellow junkies. We have a few Reactors in the group too now, so some may well get to see your message of thanks. You've expressed my sentiments about the reactions very well - in particular for me they help me to see & hear things id not noticed (or not noticed I'd noticed) with new eyes and new ears- adding such a richness to every future listen to that particular track. If you are not already a member, please do come and join us there - you will be in very good company x
I've just clicked join. Thanks for telling me about it. I am also holding my head in my hands a little bit, I thought by making the video I was putting a full stop to this habit and everyone has just encouraged me even more!
Lol. All addicts like to take hostages down with them for company😁 Disco Doc has already now seen your video - so he at least has received your personal Thank you to them all
I’ve gone down the Ren rabbit hole more times than I can count. I can’t quite put my feelings into words, but I know i love his work. I’m just glad I know I’m not alone in watching these reaction videos.
Funnily enough, I was always watching Knox Hill, not only because he's really good, but because there just weren't others (for the most part). But recently, as in the last month, I've been recommended TONS of reaction videos, pretty much exclusively of Ren's work (not specifically Kujo Beatdown), all of the style "[Profession] reacts to ...", and they are all vastly different, and I absolutely love it.
Hello Joanne, Trust me when I say you are not alone. I believe you are so caught up in watching reaction videos is because you want to see someone else find the joy in watching Ren perform as much as you do.
Yes! Years ago a friend bought me a Bible although they knew I didn't share their beliefs, I had to remind myself she wants me to have the joy she has found in it, that's what she is really giving.
Yesssss I swear it’s like an addiction for sure! I’ve never really watched reaction videos till a few weeks ago when i found Ren.. now it’s basically my whole YT algorithm 😂 I started watching them I think bc nobody I showed him to gave me the reaction I wanted.. I was like holy fucking shit who is this modern Shakespeare sent his videos to a ton of people showed a few others and my kids and barely got anything from them!!!! When he had this profound effect on me yet nobody else got it! I have to say my fav has to be Black Pegasus bc he brings so many people on to react to Ren. And they GET it!
I discovered Ren about 2 or 3 months ago, the algorithm randomly served me up some highlights of Rosalie's reaction to Hi Ren and it piqued my interest, I went and found the real song and then found some more reaction videos and started down the rabbit hole. I have a chronic illness that has impacted my life which probably made Ren's work resonate with me originally, though my situation is far less severe and I fortunately haven't suffered from severe pain or mental health issues. I hadn't watched reaction videos to anything before and I'm not even a particularly massive music fan really. I listen to spotify or the radio as much as anyone else but I haven't been to a gig in years and I don't have a vinyl collection or anything. Most of my music taste is about 20+ years out of date now too and limited to specific genres. Previously I'd never have given rap songs like Genesis or The Hunger the time of day as they're not the genre I listen to. Yet for some reason I've become borderline addicted to Ren reactions across all of his music and I don't think I've gone a day in the last couple of months without listening to a few. A lot of this video resonates with me, seeing different reactions is a way to recapture that first impression of a given song and to see other perspectives on it and feel like you're experiencing it with a community.
Hi, thanks for replying. I'm sorry to hear about your illness. I remember the first time I heard him speak about his challenges with the medical profession and I felt so seen and heard. I'm the same re my musical taste, I think that Ren is creating something else.
The reason I watch Ren reaction videos is two fold. For one thing his song Hi Ren moved me immensely. I want to see if other people have the same reaction as me because I can never experience watching it for the first time again. I can watch other people see it for the first time and I get a twinkle of that feeling. The other thing is I feel like when you live something and you share it with a friend and you both get excited about the same thing. The camaraderie feels good.
It is inspiring to see people inspired by talent, honesty, compassion and hope. I experience this every day thanks to Ren. Ren is a portal to a better world.
Watching reaction videos reminds me of being in art school during our critic days. We would look at a classmate’s artwork, and discuss it as a class. I see reactions are like this on a grander scale.
NEW SUB I understand what you’re saying and I have similar feelings about REN and reactors….You’re not alone. All reactors are not created equally. You will quickly find “your people”. Welcome to the REN rabbit hole…his music and his own personal beliefs encourages so many thoughts about the human condition. He is so raw and he makes you feel something. No matter how many times I have watched reactors review his music or when I just listen to it just for me…the emotional connections are still going strong…it’s amazing✌🏽✌🏽
Thank you, it is a whole new world to me. I knew Ren had fans but I didn't know there was a load of us going down these rabbit holes of reaction videos!
I've watched over 100 reaction videos to Hi Ren, and I know exactly what you are talking about. The humility, gratitude, and generosity of this principled artist, largely as a consequence of the extreme adversity he has endured, reaches into your soul and articulates common problems and subjects in such a powerful way that it effortlessly bridges impossibly wide caverns of religions, genders, races, occupations, ideologies - you name it - to blaze undeniable truth in your face that we are all common in being human beings. Ren has a platform that gives an incredibly powerful voice to concerns and desires that affect all of us. He gives us hope in a world of division and lies tailored to keep us separated from one another. He is a north star guiding us in a sea of chaos. Thank you, Joanne, for making this video. 😊❤
You are absolutely bloody brilliant! And I don't just say that because you so beautifully, concisely and eloquently made several points I've been struggling to cogently express for bloody months... Seriously, wow Joanne, you bloody-well rock!!
oh wow! thank you. wow! now I'm wondering what did I say!?! Have you ever heard of Derek Sivers? he talks about obvious to you and amazing to others re self expression. I was thinking I sounded like a fan girl gushing! Thank you for saying it hit the right mark for you.
Like you, rap is not usually my bag but then Ren happened. As well as enjoying seeing new people enjoy Ren, I also like to watch rap folk breakdown the lyrics, musicians/singers breakdown the music and people with a variety of experience in mental health sector can offer even more insight.
Thank you for saying it 🙏 I'm on your journey too. I sat and watched a guy sit in stunned silence watching the tales, pausing just once at the end of screechs tale. He said 3 words. "This is brilliant". Just watching him absorb Rens artistry was beautiful to watch. He has just 150ish subscribers, but he's heading down the rabbit hole, and I want to watch every second. I have come to realise there are 2 types of Renegade in the reaction community. The joyful artist who can remain detached enough to wonder at the masterpieces laid out before them, they are resilient and a reminder that for some people hope has been on their side throughout life, which in itself brings me joy. And then there are the triggered. Those grieving for lost family members, therapists who have lost friends to suicide (watching suicide - it's brutally engaging), it's rappers bobbing heads and expressing guilt when their minds caught on to what was being said. It's twins cutting the reaction short. It's one of the usually joyful artists watching Jimmy and shrinking in his chair Ren held the mirror to his soul. One at the top of my list is the bouncy guy in Australia who cuts in a trigger warning before posting. You kinda know where it's gonna go from there. But here's the thing. I've tried watching some of my favourites reactions to other stuff, and there is no other artist getting such visceral reactions. From any of them. The funny are still funny. The technical are still technical. But the emotional impact on every single one of them is something special to witness, or should that be share? Let us not forget the final layer that makes this special, the community in the comments. The stories people share touch my soul. The snippets of Ren info shared out of love, with no pettiness or spite to those starting the journey. The technical conversations about guitar mastery. The engagement with the reactors. But most of all, the stories you all share touch my soul. Thank you ❤
At different times I am both of those, I definitely feel joyful and excited to watch his work but stomped around the house the other day pretty angry at the world after hearing one story! I have a lot to figure out! Thank you for such a thoughtful and articulate comment, I really appreciate it.
Totally understand the obsession that happens. Ren has a resonance around him that so many can tie into and feel, plus he's got crazy skills, and connections with other creators... both of which he's worked to develop for a long time. I've learned his Money Game 2 and really know it now... Posted it several times in various ways on the socials. I am learning Money Game 1 and would like to learn Money Game 3. But the biggest for me was when Ren said "When you're loose in the noose on the rope." That one landed. I found myself there (literally there) in April 2014 after 2+ very difficult years. I just buried some of those voices for a very long time after trying to do battle with them (which doesn't work - at least it didn't for me...) Watching "Hi Ren" really helped me realize I actually needed to re-integrate parts of myself as part of a healing journey I'm on. I have a 3cm pituitary tumor that's been developing for more than a decade, and I've been being treated for it for about 14 months now. Anyway, not to make this comment too long, but today, as part of that journey, I shared my "housework" version of "Hi Ren" called "Hi Jonathan", with my own internal dialogue, accompanied by Moss.E's guitar cover. Hope you'll check it out: ru-vid.com/video/%D0%B2%D0%B8%D0%B4%D0%B5%D0%BE-NXm2uktmbB8.html
@@strive4impact I think it’s so valuable to see the conflict or inner chatter out of your head whether on a page or some other creative form. I draw simple cartoons which I share on instagram which I find super useful to look back on. I hope you feel the same pleasure looking back on what you create.
Thanks for your video! I have been watching Hi Ren reaction videos on a loop for the last 2 weeks since I found him. It is great to hear that other people are so moved as well. Your analysis is spot on.
Same, Joanne. With Ren I feel this deep need to experience it _'for the first time'_ again... and the only way I can do that is through someone else's eyes. So I lose most of my day visiting reaction after reaction : ) I especially enjoy looking back at their past Ren journey. And I must have subbed to hundreds of new renegades, just to follow their future journey. It's the power of shared strong emotions. It's deeply moving, it's uniting, and it has become the glue that binds our amazing Renegade family. Ren has been an absolute phenomenon for reactors, swelling views and subscriber counts. I've just come from a lady who had a deep personal reaction to Hi Ren, and then had to make a 2 hour livestream about all the positive messages she got from the Ren community that had left her crying and glued to her comment feed all day. She said she'd gone from just a handful of subs to over 300 in a day! ... I looked, it was a day later and she was already on her way to 2k There is just SO much love, energy and momentum in this crazy community of ours. Anyway, much love to you Joanne! I can't wait to walk beside you on this amazing journey, wherever it may lead. o/ o/ o/ +1 Sub, and beating the heck out of that bell : )
thank you! I so want to share what I have been experiencing regarding the comments section from you all, I just haven't processed it yet. I had this idea that his fans would be way more puritan, yet the ones I have met here have been so positive and open minded and just hungry to connect to others who feel like that. It's has been a joy!
I’m so addicted to watching Ren reaction videos that I now find myself being compelled to watch videos of people reacting to people reacting to Ren Videos. How deep is this rabbit hole.. 😮
Joanne.. you have asked the question I ask myself.. I am totally obsessed with Ren I spend hours and hours watching reaction videos, never done this before with any other artists.. you’re onto some here.. great post
Hi Joanne! Loved your video! Many of us share your feelings, and I'm really happy you shared it. Also, thanks for directing me to another Ren reaction video I haven't seen yet (Nicole)! Cheers! 🥰
A lot of reactors worry about being hit with "copyright strikes" from the original artists, and so they often obscure the video with text. Many reactors also don't add much beyond, gosh, wow, i enjoyed that! Ren, though, is different. He doesn't seem to have a problem with reactors using his videos unadulterated. He sees reactors as promoters of his work, and it's a win-win. As you suggest, he seems to have a better level of reactor, with many worthwhile insights. And with the Kujo dispute, his generosity to reactors has paid back. They've all come in on his side, and they seem to be legion. As to Ren, he's a bit more than a rapper. Yes, rapping is a large part of his work, and his word play is remarkable, but he sings and is a very talented musician and video maker. I think he works independently of the record companies and has become successful while overcoming some quite horrible illnesses. On the general point of reactions, I think we all like the cosy feeling of watching people enjoying the same things we like. I guess that's why TV programmes like Gogglebox are so successful.
I just shared quite a long comment, so I'm doing a separate one to let you know, I've subbed to your channel. It's a pleasure to meet another kindred spirit. Thanks, Ren, for helping to bring so many like minded people together.
Very insightful! I agree that it is a shared appreciation of art. It akin to standing in front of a painting in a museum with a group of strangers and hearing what they think about it.
I'm also an addict. Yes there's a joy in the sharing of emotional reactions, and reliving the pleasure of the first few viewings. As well as the 'professional' commentators. I love the people who are (e.g.) sick themselves and find a shared POV with Ren. As long as reactors are picking up the tiny easter eggs, Ren will keep putting them in. And in that context lets give a shout out to his team; Josh, Connor, Kai and of course Sam 'Behind every genius there's a quiet group of trusted and talented folks helping to make the magic! I'm only 150 into the Kujo reactions, so now I have to get back and watch the rest!! LOL! 1.2. million views in 5 days, and that doesn't include the vicarious viewers of 200+ reactors. Ren is the next Elvis!
I'm only just starting to hear the names of those on his team, I'm so interested in the creative process and that you can bring the best out of each other - does that sound too corny?
omg. I am also 'addicted' to watching the reaction vids to Ren! LOL. It has gotten to the point where I am looking down at myself going, girl, you need to shut that off and get to work! What a strange form of entertainment. But deconstructing the beautiful video "Hi Ren" is very wonderful. Nuance. Plus Ren is so sweet.
My daughter is ten and thinks it is very funny. I even blushed when telling her after school today that people had sent this video to his patreon. oh boy.
You raise some interesting ideas about the reaction community and particularly, Ren! I discovered Ren almost two years ago when I listened to Hi Ren! That quickly led me to the reaction community and the Renegade family! I was at a point where I was disenchanted with music and along comes Ren who was relatable, refreshing, talented in all genres, skilled musically and sharing original songs about personal life experiences, many of which touched my heart! His music spoke to me and changed me in ways I could never have imagined! I have so much love and respect for Ren! Thank you for your input❤liked and subscribed ❤
I love the word disenchanted that you use. I was feeling this with many types of online interaction. I often felt like my whole feed was simply people who wanted money from me. I was too scared to hit record myself but thought, someone needs to be real here. Finally I figured it might need to be me. I'm on day 104 today of doing daily videos to build confidence hitting record. The response to this video has been overwhelming. Sooooo fascinating that so many are saying the same as you (and what I felt but didn't have your vocab to help me!)
Im retired, a 'lady who lunches' a couple of times a month, with different groups of friends. None of them pay any attention to Ren, though i do mention when he releases a track i enjoy. As a sociable, l person, i also REALLY enjoy time alone. In those times i watch reaction videos, mostly to Ren (😊) but also to other, lifelong favourites. These videos have added a different dimension to my life and given me connections to people I'll probably never meet,but who chime with my interests. I think if you're a solitary person, whether by choice or not, this reaction phenomenon has added value to many lives.
I didn't get reaction videos before Ren, so I think that's why I wanted to say that they add value and talk about it. Turns out lots of people already knew that!
Reaction video makers have become the friends that in the past you would go to the movies or a concert with. I also am addicted to reaction videos but largely people reacting to music and movies I grew up with.
I haven't thought of watching those but have recently bought some classic old films for my daughter to see and spent most of the film waiting for her reactions!
I join you it is literally my fave obsession of all time. Grateful I have a full life but every chance the buds are in and I’m on to more music or reactions!
Wow. Thank you for sharing this video! Your words are so helpful. It gives a bit of clarity to have some else’s thoughts and perspectives on this little habit I’ve developed. Imagine my shock at becoming addicted to Hi Ren reaction videos, then digging through Ren’s work and finding there’s so much more! The Renegade community is amazing. My only experience with rap was when it came out decades ago. I didn’t care for it. I love nearly all types of music from Celtic harp to Heavy Metal… but never could find anything that spoke to me with rapping. Ren has blended rap into something that truly resonates with me. I respect and love that he refuses to be pigeonholed into one genre. I’m in love with his duets with Chinchilla, his diss tracks, his songs, For Joe, Tales of Jenny and Sreech, Violets Tale, Troubles, Sick Boi, and Seven Sins too. I also have “intangible illnesses”. Trust me, if you aren’t on crutches, or have an obvious issue, people can be very disrespectful. The medical community are the worst offenders. “Your labs look fine… blah, blah, blah” …ugh. Then you find out decades later that they weren’t even ordering the correct tests. I have lived with autoimmune diseases, chronic pain, and MH for decades. It’s been very validating to hear Ren open up his heart and soul and share his story. If you haven’t been yet, go to RenMakesStuff and watch his short videos Ren’s Life Chapters. He’s a compassionate, brilliant person. I’m thankful he has been so good at keeping control of his own narrative. Chapters will keep people from twisting his story to suit their own agenda. I honestly don’t know any other artist who has done what he’s doing. I think it’s partially because of his character and principles, and his personality and authenticity. I’m sure with his health issues he has down days, but he’s remarkably resilient and upbeat. I know personally that takes an enormous amount of energy and emotional intelligence. I was relieved to see that he takes great care and attention with his health. Every person’s journey with autoimmune disease is unique. That’s why they’re so challenging for doctors to detect and treat. The reaction community has also helped me understand rap jargon, videography techniques, instrumental styles, voice and singing skills and how rap lyrics and “bars” are supposed to be constructed. It’s been a ton of fun. The therapeutic aspect of his music and then watching other reaction channels needs no explanation. He’s saving lives because he’s talking about very important and meaningful subjects that connect with people. He does it with vulnerability and honesty. He doesn’t care that YT demonetizes tough subjects like Su!c!de and generational trauma. I’d never even heard the term unalived until I went deep into Ren’s rabbit hole. How crazy is a world where we have to make up a word to avoid being automatically censored? Content that’s healing shouldn’t be censored. Plenty of people with MH degrees are not afraid to react with very in depth discourse and positivity to Ren’s work. Again, those channels are helping others who can’t or won’t go to therapy on their own. I can’t count how many reactions I’ve watched where the reactor is overwhelmed with emotions; guess what? they needed to feel validated and heard too. Go Ren! Why stigmatize subjects that people need to understand and discuss with empathy? Even the Kujo Beat Down was a healthy and creative way for Ren to let go of a boatload of stress. Not to mention that therapy is expensive and extremely difficult to access for many people. Music is therapy for me. I’m an old Renegade. My hair is silver at this point and I have earned my wrinkles… 😆 my husband thinks I’m a bit obsessed with this. Honestly, he knows music is my voice. I’ve always loved meaningful music. I just started trying to articulate Ren’s musical talents and creative genius to hubby. His intro to Ren so far has been the one take video of his musical tribute to Collum Mackay. That was safe enough. He was very moved by the heartfelt composition and the video. He even mentioned that it felt like a conversation from Ren to Callum… I’m hoping to share HI Ren with him soon. I’ve already shared that with two of the grandkids. They love Ren. He helps them make sense of our crazy world. Money Game 1,2 & 3. There’s something for everyone here in the community that Ren has built with his art. He’s definitely a once in a lifetime creative artist. We are so lucky to have him in this world. I hope he gets the recognition he deserves and more number one spots on the music charts. ☮️
Thank you for your reply, I felt like I could almost hear your voice speaking to me. Do you create videos or write? There was so much you mentioned that I am not yet familiar with, perhaps you should be helping people like me with your own channel investigating the world of Ren. No, I'm serious. Do you create? Reach out to me if you feel curious and need a push!!!!
@@JoanneWhitlockthank you for your kind words. Yes, I’ve enjoyed writing and creating art over the years. We used to have a big farm and offered equine therapeutic group support for veterans. We finally both got too old and decrepit to keep it going, even with a staff. We made the difficult decision to sell the farm and retire. Unfortunately my thinking is so scattered nowadays from exhaustion and anxiety due to navigating daily life with my own autoimmune diseases, and complex PTSD from childhood trauma that it takes me ages to focus and write these comments. I actually have been trying to break my habit or set a strict time limit for going on YT. Yes, the community has been very therapeutic for me, however, I’m noticing a pattern of scrolling and viewing to avoid dealing with things I detest… email, decision making, and sorting through clutter to donate. 😆 My previous avoidance “fix” was listening to audiobooks. Inability to focus is a side gift of complex PTSD. I have always been anxious about posting on social media for personal safety reasons. I’ve nearly gone back and deleted my posts, but decided to just leave it out there in hopes of lifting just one survivor or person with chronic illnesses up out of the morass of daily life. I’ve always viewed YT content for quick “how to” videos , like how to use danged Procreate. Which I notice you enjoy 😉 My husband gifted me with the Apple Pencil and Procreate years ago. I found an excellent how to channel, and still am struggling with that; I’m a painter. I love realism. That’s not easy to learn to do that digitally. It’s quicker to grab a paintbrush 😆 If life would allow me to immerse myself in big blocks of time, I’d likely be able to figure out getting the most out of digital art. Then there’s that darn autoimmune component that causes issues within my body. It’s a dance to find work arounds for those things. It’s a constant process. One moment at a time. Prior to discovering Ren, I’ve never been involved in posting any comments. I don’t recall if I’d even subscribed to channels before this. Ren is an inspiration and a force of nature. I’m so grateful for his work. Thanks for the offer of a boost, it’s so generous of you to do that for a complete stranger. If I were interested in setting up a YT channel your offer to help would have been immensely helpful. Your enthusiasm and dedication to sharing with others and growing your own community is inspiring. All the best to you. I’ll be rooting for your success with this channel. ❤️ Thank You for your generosity and offer of support. Kindness matters. ✨
The reason I love watching Ren reaction videos is that he's a great antidote to the sea of fakeness we're all drowning in every day. Governments, news channels, corporations, movies, social media, music, food, and everything else you can imagine are plastic, artificial, empty, manufactured, and homogenized. But Ren finds beauty in the imperfect and the uncomfortable, and finds power in his pain. Watching people that are genuinely moved by his art gives me hope that the giant soulless machine is losing, one reaction at a time.
I also felt unhappy with what I was being fed via social media. I didn't - and still don't - feel skilled enough to be creating videos but I thought who goes first to change this? I tell myself in a years time I'll be better! It helps to take myself lightly!!!
Hi Joann. This is the first video of yours that I've seen and I enjoyed it. You said that you're sure you don't look or sound like the average Ren fan but I'd like to say I guarantee you that you do! I honestly believe that his fan base is comprised of people from different nations, different colors, all ages and walks of life. We're brought together by Ren's incredible talent, his soul reaching messages, the love of art and his genuine nature that inspires us to lift each other up when we can. He's a breath of fresh air that so many of us needed. So yes, to me, you absolutely do look like a Ren fan. Not the average fan, but the true fan! ❤️✌️
Thank you. This is the overall message of the comments I have received today. I woke up this morning seeing I had a tonne of messages and I spent the next two hours avoiding opening my computer cause I was so scared! That people like you have taken the time to write and let me know you relate etc is more than simply uplifting - thank you.
