Classical Composer Reaction/Analysis: REN - The Tale of Jenny & Screech - The Daily Doug (Ep. 616)

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  • čas přidán 11. 07. 2023
  • #ren #jennyandscreech
    In this edition of #thedailydoug, I'm returning to the music of Ren as I listen to Thte Tale of Jenny and Screech. As in past listens, I was completely overwhelmed by Ren's art. These interwoven three short stories (of Jenny, Ren, & Violet) read like a Shakespearean tragedy...in a way that you can't click away from. Come along for the ride as I share my thoughts during this first time listen!
    Reference Video: • Ren - The Tale of Jenn...
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Komentáře • 653

  • @Malfehzan
    @Malfehzan Před rokem +301

    Jenny and James are "standard" names for orphans, a bit like John/Jane Doe for unknown deceased persons.

    • @oh_meghann5777
      @oh_meghann5777 Před 9 měsíci +8

      I was wondering if it was something like this

    • @lenechristiansen2663
      @lenechristiansen2663 Před 9 měsíci +20

      Thank you for that information. This rabbit hole is also a teaching proces in english for me. Love from Denmark. Lene/🇩🇰

    • @LuxFuxx
      @LuxFuxx Před 9 měsíci +1

      Why the fuck does everyone comment this.
      1. No.
      2. It doesn't make sense.
      3. Where did you read this?

    • @theresaespy5484
      @theresaespy5484 Před 8 měsíci +4

      I haD no idea thank you for that info

  • @robmarar
    @robmarar Před rokem +493

    Ren calls this style of music Bardcore (like the bard Jaskier in The Witcher but in modern times) and here's the origin story of the trilogy 🤩😁🤯
    This wasn't originally a trilogy story. Ren read a small article in the paper about a 14 yr old boy killing a young prostitute with a knife, in an attempted robbery. Knife crimes had been skyrocketing in London at that time. Later that same evening the boy had been shot and killed by the police . This disturbed him, so he set out to write a commentary, but not just on senseless violence, but also on how desensitized we've become to it. The words he ends both Jenny and Screech's Tales with speaks for itself. "It's such a Shame" we say these words all to often, and just move on without a second thought. The the lead inspector at the scene said " So Young, It's such a shame".
    Violets Tale was written over 2 years later adding yet another layer of commentary by Ren. He wanted us to consider not only generational violence but to make us look at all angles of society that we turn a blind eye to Domestic violence/child abuse & homeless youths. Both characters are born out of violence on that cruel night and then both killed with brutal violence on the same evening 14 yrs later. Also, his lyrics have even more meaning when you read in between the lines. For example he doesn't say what Jenny was doing or why she wanted to escape from this place & life, or why Screech thought she was older then himself by saying at Patrick's door "I left this lady lying on the floor". Could it be the way she's dressed & her heavy makeup? Also why is a 14yr old girl out so late at night alone in a sketchy area wearing high heels & thats "she's walked it a thousand times before" everything points to Jenny being an underage prostitute, showing us what Ren writes has reason & makes us think. There's no fat on the bone, every word is weighed & has meaning.
    Also, how can both these siblings be so cursed? Jenny has the same traits as her mother Violet, quiet, voiceless, and timid. Where as Screech mirrors his father Stevie in every way, Loud, obnoxious, and easily prone & provoked into violence. They didn't know one another and had never met their biological parents. What made these kids so much like their parents? Was it simply Nature, inherited traits due to their genetic make-up OR Nurture, being brought up in the broken governmental system filled with, mistreated & in many cases, abused children? He organically takes us on this journey, leaving us to think shouldn't we be doing a better job in this so called "advanced, wealthy, 1st world society.
    Cheers 🥂

    • @davespicer3647
      @davespicer3647 Před rokem +42

      Beautifully done writeup.

    • @MissMeKate
      @MissMeKate Před rokem +14

      I haven't heard anything about the boy being killed by the police in the story Ren read. All I have seen Ren say is that he read about a 14 year old boy who had stabbed a woman and then invented the rest. (It would be highly unlikely for a young boy to be killed by our police.) Would love to read/watch him discuss it in more detail if you know where you saw it?

    • @sammyd8860
      @sammyd8860 Před rokem +8

      Loved your commentary @robmarar. The trilogy is one I shy away from (I really can't cope very well with violent imagery0 but I really appreciated your insight. Thank you

    • @jonnylumberjack6223
      @jonnylumberjack6223 Před rokem +10

      @@MissMeKate Yeah, police are not armed in London, generally speaking! There was no 14 year old shot by the police in London, didn't happen. If Ren did take the shooting from a real life occurrence, that happened in the good old USA - Trayvon Martin and Tamir Rice were both very young.

    • @duanehirini2078
      @duanehirini2078 Před rokem +7

      History of Tragedy. 1. Iliad. 2. Romeo and Juliet. 3. Japanese manga. 4. Ren.

  • @TRPLD
    @TRPLD Před rokem +229

    What makes this even more tragic is that Jenny is a "girl of the night". She is 14 years old but "walked these streets 1000 times" in "high-heel shoes" and also the "she wanted to escape, can you blame her" hints at that...

    • @junction6_m27VNC
      @junction6_m27VNC Před rokem +6

      I don’t think Jenny was a street walker, but a sweet girl, I think this tale is set in Camden Town a district of London where Amy Winehouse lived and I think Jenny was a fan that dressed like Amy, retro clothing and high heels, the statue of Amy in Camden Market show Amy wearing high heels and she walked the floor 1000 times before to visit Amy’s statue, wanting to escape is what every 14yo wants but also one of the many graffiti’s of Amy all over Camden is next the The Escape Bar which Amy did some of her first gigs in, I think Jenny wanted to sing just like Amy

    • @stevenmeyer9674
      @stevenmeyer9674 Před rokem +50

      @@junction6_m27VNC She was a street walker , 100% guaranteed . Ren got the idea of the original Jenny and Screech tales from reading a story of a young prostitute that was the victim of knife violence.

    • @andreasbuhrmann8442
      @andreasbuhrmann8442 Před rokem +1

      1000 times is around 3 years, so she started at 11? :/

    • @sootikins
      @sootikins Před rokem +8

      @@andreasbuhrmann8442 Poetic license

    • @BBB_photography_adventures
      @BBB_photography_adventures Před rokem +9

      @@junction6_m27VNC sorry mate i believe you’re wrong one that one

  • @TornSoul062473
    @TornSoul062473 Před rokem +355

    If I had to pick one song I think you'd appreciate the most, it would have to be "Chalk Outlines Live w/ Chinchilla." No big producer, no A list music director, no big production and sound stage. Just 2 indie artists, a guitar, and a hallway with great reverb. That's it. It's a fucking crime this duet hasn't gotten multiple awards. It's one of the best duets I've ever heard. You will not be disappointed.

    • @markwilson7013
      @markwilson7013 Před rokem +34

      Chalk Outlines is great (and the one I'd listen to first), but I think How to be Me (live) is as good or better. Its truly haunting, and the end gets me more now I've heard Suicide.

    • @twistedpixel756
      @twistedpixel756 Před rokem +12

      @@markwilson7013 They're both excellent, and I feel Doug would really enjoy picking them apart.

    • @tonyjames9016
      @tonyjames9016 Před rokem +10

      Chalk outlines will blow you away. Agreed. ❤

    • @jbentz1966
      @jbentz1966 Před rokem +5

      Excellent review. Doug. Was an amazing twist at the end. Thanks.

    • @louannlang7471
      @louannlang7471 Před rokem +4

      I concur!

  • @marcatkinson4149
    @marcatkinson4149 Před rokem +310

    Actually, Jenny didn't fight back, she froze like a statue, and couldn't even find the strength to move enough to hand over her belongings. That's when Screech yelled about her playing games, and sliced and killed her. Jenny took after her mother Violet, who was a silent girl. She fell for a boy who was just like her father. The cycle of violence continued.
    Apparently, there were weeks or months between each video release, and Ren promoted it with more tidbits about the story on TikTok, etc. Patrick, Screech's mate was actually screwing Screech's girlfriend at the time of the incident, which is why Patrick didn't answer the door, and why Screech's gf said she was busy when he phoned her.
    From what I have heard, he read a newspaper article about a similar story, then took that story and embellished upon it to come up with this. He added the crazier twists and turns, I don't think all of that was part of the actual story

    • @joshuawiedenbeck6944
      @joshuawiedenbeck6944 Před rokem +23

      From what I've heard, the real-life story was that a young man killed a young women, having no idea she was his sister because they had both grown up in Britain's version of foster care. Ren added the rest. The incident took place in 2005. "London city, far from pretty. 2, 0, 0, 5.

    • @NixyRose72
      @NixyRose72 Před rokem +20

      Ren read about a young prostitute who was stabbed in London. That was Jenny's Tale. The other two came from Ren's brilliant gift of creative art.

    • @sallymclachlan357
      @sallymclachlan357 Před rokem +6

      I also wonder if Jenny looked at him funny because he looked like her?

    • @shellymiller1248
      @shellymiller1248 Před rokem +9

      Those lines where she freezes often go unnoticed and they are so good.

    • @thomasgoldschmidt298
      @thomasgoldschmidt298 Před rokem

      @@joshuawiedenbeck6944 I believe you misunderstood that: foxspirit38 got it right.
      ...she walked this floor about a 1000 times before, she wanted to escape, who can blame...i guess that she escaped is such a shame.
      Jenny's tale came out 2019 and the article he read was about a 14 year boy killing a young prostitute. 2005 refers to the birth of the twins 14 years earlier.

  • @CristiNeagu
    @CristiNeagu Před rokem +47

    When he sings "She never stood a chance" it just breaks my heart. Incredible delivery.

  • @candidwings5609
    @candidwings5609 Před rokem +79

    As a writer, this is everything a short story should be. As a DV survivor, this is both accurate to my emotional experience and, imo, respectful of all the victims.
    I love seeing reactors flinch when watching this because youre supposed to - both from a storytelling perspective and in the accuracy with which he conveyed the immersive fear of those who are surviving violent people.

    • @lajoyous1568
      @lajoyous1568 Před rokem +11

      I also watch for the flinch. If a reactor doesn't flinch during Violet's tale I figure they're not really paying attention to the lyrics and it doesn't quite qualify as a reaction.
      I'm sorry you have first hand experience to make it relatable ❤

    • @hermajestysminstrelcycle8207
      @hermajestysminstrelcycle8207 Před rokem +3

      What makes me flinch (every single time) is the description of Violet's beating; "...like a crashing pilot" sets up how vicious it was, then delving into individual blows. Doug's reaction to "...met her throat" shows his level of empathy for her.

  • @jamesdoherty6558
    @jamesdoherty6558 Před rokem +128

    ren is off the scales so good

  • @markuss7249
    @markuss7249 Před rokem +56

    Little opera in 3 acts. This style he calls "Bardcore" .
    Working class reality... reminds me a little of "Threepenny Opera" by Brecht and Weill. Many people talk about him as a modern Shakespeare. He introduced the whole "opera" to his audience in a performance on a public place at night in Brighton. (Also availiable on YT) The crowd gathered by doing a little rally to this place. The whole performance then was awesome, but the connection to the crowd was a breathtaking experience. Ren said, it was one of the best nights in his life...

    • @imposs-up1hg
      @imposs-up1hg Před 2 měsíci +1

      Cool that you mention Brecht and Weill. That's what I thought and you're the first person I've seen in the comments who have made the same connection.

  • @dealmes
    @dealmes Před rokem +106

    Knox Hill did a great interview with Ren and Ren opened himself up for the first time about his best friend Joe's passing by suicide. Worth watching.

    • @sentenced03
      @sentenced03 Před rokem +4

      The song referencing that is amazing, btw. It had me in tears.

    • @smack_pop7
      @smack_pop7 Před rokem +7

      Black Pegasus and Rosalie Reacts also have interviews with him. In both of those interviews he mentions his creative process and gives you a glimpse in his brilliant mind, check them out, it's worth seeing them. ❤❤❤

  • @kocko3108
    @kocko3108 Před rokem +22

    Did you notice how he used the natural acoustics of the different rooms to color the story? Pure Genius

  • @NixyRose72
    @NixyRose72 Před rokem +29

    Jenny was a 14 yr old prostitute (she walked the streets a thousand times before; stayed as still as a statue in high heeled shoes), based on a headlined story Ren read in a paper about a young prostitute stabbed by a young boy.
    In Ren's songs, Jenny and Screech are born in violence, raised in the system and both died rough in the street. Their mother was silent, like Jenny and Screech was angry and prone to violence like their "father." (It's also theorized that Violet's father was also the father of her children. That's one of the few ways she'd get a welfare flat at 16... pregnant. Also would explain why Stevie kept calling her a liar and a slut when he got drunk. She was already pregnant when they met)
    Generational violence, nature or nurture cannot be answered in this tale because they were "nurtured" in the same abusive type environment that their mother was. So it could still be either/or or a combo of both.
    You hear about the violence (not necessarily the twisty Shakespearean part) every day. Unfortunately, children are killed every day because of it. I like how Ren brings this horrible, too often avoided, subject to attention in all its bloodstained horror with the beauty and vivid imagery of a painting. Lyrical imagery. It hurts, but it's beautifully done. I think that sums up a lot of Ren's work. He's amazing and world changing. Definitely one to keep your eyes on!

  • @auralfixxation6702
    @auralfixxation6702 Před rokem +57

    This is true songwriting/story telling. When I heard "Hi Ren", I thought this is probably a one hit wonder kind of thing. Then I heard this and realized, he is the real thing. Just wow!

    • @kristalcornwell
      @kristalcornwell Před rokem +4

      commenting to add then I heard losing it and realised he can be fun and enjoyable as well as dark and deep

  • @kristiansavov6528
    @kristiansavov6528 Před 10 měsíci +13

    Wikipedia 2223 A.D.: "REN - Musician & philosopher & poet & bard &... just genius of 21-st century!" Thanks for reaction!

  • @gavinwilson2071
    @gavinwilson2071 Před rokem +24

    Ren is writing a musical drama, he's hoping to pitch it to Netflix one day. He said this trilogy is his proof of concept.

  • @hermajestysminstrelcycle8207

    As a result of Ren, I'm currently active with a plethora of reactors. YOU sir, are the first one to point out "God Rest Ye Merry". What I heard the first time too. He strung all these together as a courtesy to those of us on CZcams who had no clue what order to play them in. One of my favorite parts of Violet's Tale is his use of ambient reverb, both in the hallway and the stairwell. "Normally" you'd add that in post, but this is a live take. Each piece opens with a beautiful intro, followed by the opening theme...and in all 3 cases, comes back at the end. The kids would have gone to an orphanage, and quickly separated. Screech became a right bastard like grandpa, and Jenny became a quiet streetwalker.
    There are 4 major interviews out there: Justin Hawkins, Knox Hill, Black Pegasus. and Rosalie Reacts. I'd make suggestions, but EVERY piece of Ren's work is something of a unique seashell; and it's ALL good. "Chalk Outlines" and "How to Be Me" with Chinchilla (another artist I'd recommend looking into) are pretty amazing.

    • @knowsomething9384
      @knowsomething9384 Před rokem +2

      Same. I saw a reactor say it sounded Christmas-y, but they didn't know why. :)

  • @philth8540
    @philth8540 Před rokem +22

    So glad to see you doing this one. Your reactions are so unique, as is Ren and his artistry. I think Shakespearean tragedy hits the nail on the head for this tale.

  • @justinatest9456
    @justinatest9456 Před rokem +30

    I think you'd really appeciate his newest song 'For Joe". Performed live on keyboard, it's written for his childhood friend who committed suicide thirteen years ago by jumping from a bridge. It's quite stark and powerful, both bitter and beautiful.

  • @johnshaw4700
    @johnshaw4700 Před rokem +16

    Shakespeare with an O. Henry twist. Ren is so literate, so poetic, so powerful. Knew you'd love this Doug.

  • @andrewwallace4481
    @andrewwallace4481 Před rokem +29

    The Tales Trilogly is a Masterpiece other Tracks 1.Humble with Eden Nash' 2.Power 3.The Hunger 4.Diazepam 5.Chalk Outlines with Chinchilla (another great Reaction Doug)

  • @lilithphoenix6103
    @lilithphoenix6103 Před 11 měsíci +5

    That. 12:28 "a Shakespearean Tragedy" perfect comparison. Only the bard himself would've wrote anything equal to this. 👏🏻 💖

  • @adancer3592
    @adancer3592 Před rokem +16

    Got some of the best advice from my 4th grade teacher miss Miller "when your talking your not listening and will miss important things you may need later .

    • @mysocksarewet
      @mysocksarewet Před 2 měsíci

      Maybe she should’ve taught you grammar instead.

  • @noorieiversen
    @noorieiversen Před rokem +8

    I feel this is social commentary on generational trauma. Ren teaches empathy with these dark tales, in a world so Quick to dismiss the suffering of the poor. Violet was never to blame, and her children bore the brunt of her lot in life. Screech became his father, Jenny became her mother, silent and still, unable to fight back. She froze, like her mother stayed quiet and endured her suffering in silence.

  • @michaelthony9525
    @michaelthony9525 Před 8 měsíci +2

    Perfect pitch and music theory insights are on point! Game recognizes game. Subbed

  • @jeffmalloy8200
    @jeffmalloy8200 Před rokem +10

    Yep, and at 14 years old what is Jenny doing out late at night in high heels walking down a street she knew well and walked a thousand times before? Sounds like she was forced through circumstances into underaged prostitution. So, Ren is shinging a light on..... alcoholism, rape/incest, domestic violence, failure of any kind of functional social safety net or foster care system, drug use, street violence, domestic violence and generational social aberrations of multiple kinds. And he's doing it as an independent artist, live in one take, while working with a great independent cinematographer to boot. Unreal! This is art!

    • @junction6_m27VNC
      @junction6_m27VNC Před rokem

      We don’t know it was late at night, all Ren says is it’s a quiet dark night so it could be 7pm in December, it would be dark at that time and not that late, I’m doing a breakdown of all the characters every Sunday on my YT, jenny is already posted

    • @jeffmalloy8200
      @jeffmalloy8200 Před rokem

      @@junction6_m27VNC not really important how late it was for a working girl, the darkness helps their John's hide their identities though. As far as that goes, working girls work their trade in daylight too.

  • @junction6_m27VNC
    @junction6_m27VNC Před rokem +8

    For me it’s the clarity of Rens words even when he is showing emotion that is haunting, I felt terrible bobbing my head along to the rhythm as he describes some pretty horrific violence, the pictures painted in my head will stay with me a long time, Ren is a true artist, there should be a serious BBC or Netflix show discussing this masterpiece

  • @lavrentish
    @lavrentish Před rokem +5

    A hidden side story in Screech’s tale could be that Patrick is not at home because he is with Screech’s girlfriend (that’s why she was “busy”). Maybe Screech figured it out when he yelled at her and decided to face the blue lights.

  • @hiSPACEmango
    @hiSPACEmango Před rokem +22

    Check out the money game parts 1&2 cause Ren said he just finished the video for part 3. It's some of his thoughts on society. Along with "crucify you culture"

    • @Goddzi
      @Goddzi Před rokem

      So glad someone finally mentioned “Crucify Your Culture”! It’s like the prequel to the Money Game (soon to be) trilogy ❤

  • @atwellorama
    @atwellorama Před rokem +22

    Glad you noted the reggae and busker. Ren moved to Brighton some years back and did much busking on his own, and with his band The Big Push. You can do yourself a HUGE favor and check out some of their stuff. Just amazing how good they are at connecting with the crowd.
    FYI, Ren has hinted that he has spoken to a studio...possibly to flesh this out into something bigger?

    • @MurkW00d
      @MurkW00d Před rokem +7

      Honestly, if Ren and Samuel don't get a Netflix show of their own, then there is something wrong with this world.

    • @PoliticallyPink
      @PoliticallyPink Před rokem

      Ren has had studio offers, and turned them down. He's staying independent. Did you hear something different very recently?

    • @MurkW00d
      @MurkW00d Před rokem +1

      @@PoliticallyPinkprobably talking about television studios rather than music ones in this instance?

    • @atwellorama
      @atwellorama Před rokem

      @@MurkW00d exactly.

  • @Dragonartykay
    @Dragonartykay Před rokem +5

    I can’t imaging anyone being able to just be able to read the lyrics and not being completely immersed in RENs performance. It’s is just so mesmerising, imaginative and truly a piece of art.

  • @GarnetJ
    @GarnetJ Před rokem +7

    Ren is a master storyteller. Many refer to this style of his work as “Bardcore,” and it definitely is a modern day Shakespearean tragedy. It’s a powerful depiction of generational trauma and the cycles of abuse.
    Ren even released Instagram stories as Screech that shows more of a backstory. It likely wasn’t a coincidence that his friend Patrick wasn’t home and his girlfriend was busy.
    And it’s tragic when you realize that Jenny is only 14 walking the streets alone at night. They likely grew up in foster care. Makes you wonder if Jenny could sense Screech because they were twins or if she could sense the danger. But she froze just like her mother.

  • @frankquinn6872
    @frankquinn6872 Před rokem +8

    The story is set in London but was filmed in Brighton on the south coast (hence the seagulls after “she stayed silent”).

  • @helenjarvis7755
    @helenjarvis7755 Před rokem +8

    The use of environmental acoustics especially in Violets tale adds so much to the music

  • @Blend-24
    @Blend-24 Před rokem +14

    Jenny did not fight back sir, she froze scared just like her mother. Congrats, many reactors miss the twins connection there!! Great reaction

  • @woolleson
    @woolleson Před rokem +15

    Ren is just "art" personified..... A real gem. He's just released a new track "suici#e" , it's deep but heart wrenching, but his other side is fun and goofy, check out loosing it, it's a real rollercoaster of a track with fantastic lyrics and cadence to and EDM beat.

    • @PoliticallyPink
      @PoliticallyPink Před rokem

      I definitely didn't find Suicide heartwarming. More like heart-breaking, for sure. For Joe was a fresh breath towards life though, which I think we needed. Losing it is one of my favorites! Love it! (then again, which ones AREN'T "*one of* my favorites"??

  • @xchakeix
    @xchakeix Před rokem +4

    I'm so glad you did this trilogy. It's my favorite to watch people react to. It's an absolute masterpiece of storytelling and he's 100% a modern day bard. Please continue down this rabbit hole, it's well worth your time!

  • @iamsquatty
    @iamsquatty Před rokem +12

    Ren can tell a story like none other 💜

  • @mrbrad4566
    @mrbrad4566 Před rokem +11

    One of my favourites by Ren is How to be me (Live) with Chinchilla. I think this will show his songwriting and vocal range. But there's so much more, Money Game, Animal Flow (both versions in one reaction). Genesis or Power will show his rapping flow. He'll keep you going all year.

  • @user-zu6ir6kj5g
    @user-zu6ir6kj5g Před rokem +6

    Yep, I got that "God rest ye...." intro. In my mind,, it sets the story on Christmas Eve. (Wish you saved the commentary for when you stop the track - I wanted to hear the lyrics)

  • @adamlaceky8127
    @adamlaceky8127 Před rokem +11

    Ren read a newspaper article about a boy who killed a girl, and was then killed by the police. The cop said "It's such a shame."

    • @supertuscans9512
      @supertuscans9512 Před rokem +1

      I don’t think that is exactly correct.

    • @adamlaceky8127
      @adamlaceky8127 Před rokem

      @@supertuscans9512 That's just what I read awhile back.

    • @goobydoot
      @goobydoot Před rokem

      London cops don’t carry guns. The first story was in the paper about the girl getting killed by knife. The rest of it is straight from Rens imagination over the next few years.

  • @glynnettleton9900
    @glynnettleton9900 Před rokem +2

    Ren is one of the most generous & interesting interviewees I've ever seen! No two interviews are the same in content so you won't get the predictably dull plugs for product that you'd expect from an A list popstar. An interview with Ren just flows organicaly & weaves through a maze of random topics that pop up in conversation. All his interviews tho are warm, generous, heartfelt & honest! Yes, please make the effort to set asside 90 - 120 mins of your time to interview him 😁

  • @sketchtherapy1218
    @sketchtherapy1218 Před rokem +4

    I've been waiting for this a very long time. Thank you so much sir thank you thank you Ren is a good boy a great man thank you for featuring him.

  • @RonaldBigsworth
    @RonaldBigsworth Před rokem +3

    I love your channel Doug 👊🏾
    Amazing technical insight every time. In answer to your question on where he filmed it, it was filmed in the back lanes of Brighton where he now lives.
    I came down to see
    If I could find some locations and I found most of them. I also had the extreme pleasure of bumping into Ren and can confirm he’s actually an Angel sent from God 🙏🏾

  • @jonathangibson9137
    @jonathangibson9137 Před rokem +5

    Doug there are so many Ren tracks to choose from - as countless others have mentioned. He has brought so many people from all walks of life together through his art. He has given me hope in the music of today and champions music not as a commodity but as a way of life. I would love to see you react to many more. I think you'd love seeing his band covering "I shot the sheriff/road to Zion/hip hop" and also his duet with Chinchilla "How to be me". Welcome to the Ren-aissance!Thank you for your valuable musical insights. 🔥✌️

  • @TheSkootenbeeten
    @TheSkootenbeeten Před rokem +15

    "The thing that I've heard multiple times is to not read through the lyrics," they said.
    You didn't read the lyrics... except, you did.
    "Megan has prepared my read-in and the lyrics are here below so I can follow them." I mean - that let me know before the songs started. You had them right there in front of you whilst watching this masterpiece. You're only human. As we all do - you craved that answer. What answer? WHERE DOES VIOLET COME INTO ALL OF THIS?
    Can we not see where your eyes go when we watch this? For that reveal at the end? Well, of course, we can... they dropped low. They read the lyrics. You read the lyrics.
    Let the man (Ren) tell you the story before you jump the gun.
    When you are advised to not read the lyrics... don't read the lyrics.
    That being said; it was an enjoyable reaction. I think a little genuine honesty was lost as I saw your eyes picking up the threads of lyrics. So... c'mon, man. Give yourself some credit and react without the need for such crutches.
    A little harsh? Maybe. True? Yes.

    • @anascoburn
      @anascoburn Před rokem +3

      I agree with your sentiment here Skooten, and would would just underscore that many of us watch multiple reactions to the same piece because each reactor enriches our own appreciation of the piece -- perhaps cognitively with an insight, perhaps technically by bringing their expertise to bear, but most fundamentally when they allow their own visceral response to to pierce through all the layers of technique, all the ways in which the medium through which they reach out to us tends to shape the artist's work, the reactor's work and our own conditioning to just experience a fleeting moment of authentic connection.

    • @guadalupejazminvilaguillen4786
      @guadalupejazminvilaguillen4786 Před rokem +3

      Thank you. I left my own comment about it but just today cause I just watched this, and I just found your comment after I already commented. It is obvious sometimes he is even moving the mouth to lyrics that didn't happen yet, and the switching of his eyes from left to right is super obvious...

  • @richardlyons7582
    @richardlyons7582 Před rokem +8

    You're going to love this Doug.

  • @reeniemartins6639
    @reeniemartins6639 Před rokem +10

    Was waiting for months for this! Loved it! Thanks for doing this one! I always assume Jenny and Screech were separated at birth and raised in the system , thus didn’t know each other. But who knows. Can’t wait for more Ren reactions!

  • @MichaelNaydeck
    @MichaelNaydeck Před rokem +2

    This storytelling that he is doing is so far advanced. He's a performer and a writer. An artist who I am beginning to enjoy immensely.

  • @zerofox3d
    @zerofox3d Před rokem +13

    Money game part 1 and Money game part 2 (lyric video) are your next best options, they are social commentary type stories that always resonate. Then probably Chalk Outlines Live with Chinchilla for just some amazing vocals. He’s approaching a million subs so a push on reactions will help him 😉

  • @lowertheshield
    @lowertheshield Před 11 měsíci

    This is one of your most authentic reactions I have watched of yours. Well done! I loved how you struggled to allow the story to unfold. The music and lyrics and performance as a whole dig in and pull out huge, uncomfortable emotions.

  • @guitarchannel5676
    @guitarchannel5676 Před rokem +5

    Powerful performance. Haven't heard this guitarist/singer/composer before, but he has some powerful ideas.

  • @incrediblyStupid678
    @incrediblyStupid678 Před 8 měsíci +1

    This piece by Ren I find especially impressive. He really sets himself apart as not just a musician, but a modern barde, really. His musical talent combined with his amazing storytelling really draws you in!

  • @thentil
    @thentil Před rokem

    I appreciate all the preparation you do!

  • @QuantumBeeWellness
    @QuantumBeeWellness Před rokem +4

    His most recent video is yet another live performance of his song For Joe, he plays piano in this one. It will also blow you away with its power

  • @DwarfsRBest
    @DwarfsRBest Před rokem +1

    I'm so happy that you reacted to this one, Doug. I'm always impressed by your ability to break down complex popular music, but Ren breaks all the rules. Happy to have you along or the ride. So far, it has only gotten better for me and I hope you experience the same. Cheers

  • @nebulousreactions
    @nebulousreactions Před rokem +2

    A very tragic and sad tale, that happens all too often, told in Ren's amazing fashion. He's so magnetic I had a hard time reacting to this myself because it's hard to break away from his storytelling. Ren's a treasure. Great video!

  • @hdavidgarcia777
    @hdavidgarcia777 Před rokem +4

    Ive been waiting for this.

  • @mickjuul1977
    @mickjuul1977 Před rokem

    Been waiting for you to do this one.. You did not disappoint.. ;)

  • @by_the_stone
    @by_the_stone Před rokem +1

    Make that interview happen, please! Would be amazing to dive a bit deeper into the musical side of Ren's art as this wasn't covered too much in the previous interviews. And just seeing you two lovely persons talking face to face would make many of us happy for sure!

  • @Brown614
    @Brown614 Před rokem +9

    She didn't fight screech and it's important to the story because how he made it was the kids took the traits of the parents. Jenny was quiet and didn't fight back just like Jenny, while beaten to death by Stevie, just like screech killed jenny. The depth of this story is insanity.

  • @nellynkaqt9467
    @nellynkaqt9467 Před 6 měsíci

    I love how engaged you are in the story. It is so lovely to watch your reaction videos.

  • @samwiseganja3026
    @samwiseganja3026 Před rokem

    Been waiting for this!!!! Thank you!! 💚

  • @Night_Hawk_475
    @Night_Hawk_475 Před 4 měsíci

    Talented doesn't even begin to cut it - Ren's skill with not just the guitar, and not just other instruments, but with those as well as his lyricism, storytelling, and cinematography all show years of hard work and dedication to practicing his craft. I cannot imagine the amount of time that he put into practicing and producing just these three pieces, much less the time and effort it took to build himself up to this point in his career.
    Thank you for highlighting this talented artist again, I'm so glad that Ren has blessed us all with his music. Even these particularly dark tales are moving in ways that are so rare in media, and I appreciate that someone is out there to evoke those emotions in so many people.

  • @rebeccaburnell9319
    @rebeccaburnell9319 Před rokem +2

    Violet, at 9 months gestation, had no idea she was pregnant with twins; she'd slipped through the cracks of the health care system (very common for victims of abuse - whether they themselves don't want to have anyone see the evidence of abuse on their body and push them to leave if they're not ready to leave, or whether the abuser prevents them from seeking medical care in order to prevent the victim from being persuaded to leave the relationship and/or the involvement of law enforcement). She's never had so much as her early pregnancy ultrasound, probably not even the early fetal heatbeat check (although it can happen that the medical tech can miss a second heartbeat in the early weeks).
    And yeah, Sam the camera person is an important factor in Ren's ability to tell a story. ❤

    • @Ruloathesome
      @Ruloathesome Před rokem +1

      I reckon she knew she was pregnant let my babies stay alive I can't imagine her not knowing and loving her unborn children but it is possible she never knew what does Ren say about this?

    • @rebeccaburnell9319
      @rebeccaburnell9319 Před rokem

      @@Ruloathesome she knew she was pregnant, but the lyric Ren typed out and pinned to the video says "please let my baby stay alive" so he's saying she didn't know she was carrying twins.
      Edit - wow, I see how my comment probably reads! I didn't mean Violet didn't know she was pregnant, I just meant she thought she was carrying *one* baby/didn't know it was twins.

  • @kellynutter1180
    @kellynutter1180 Před rokem +3

    Chalk Outlines with Chinchilla!!! The harmonizing between the two is off the charts.

  • @roosvanderwerf3637
    @roosvanderwerf3637 Před 11 měsíci

    I loved your reaction and your expressions, thank you for this!

  • @simonbennett3171
    @simonbennett3171 Před rokem +1

    I love this reaction Doug, much as I love your reactions because you get so invested in the music as it grabs you. I love watching you discuss what is going on in the tracks. As a budding musicians in his early fifties who is trying to get his ear to work properly, I try to learn from what you do, so thank you.

  • @alaysiayoung
    @alaysiayoung Před rokem +1

    I'm just so struck everytime I listen to this full tale of the depth of violence stemming from generational trauma.
    We don't know much about Violet's parents beginnings - but we can assume from the cyclical telling they weren't good themselves. The rage and sadness keep getting passed down the line, producing shorter and shorter lives lived, ending with two children who didn't even know they were related being the cause of each other's demise.
    So much to be taken and gleaned here.
    And the fact that it was delivered via such impeccable artistry is not to be lost.
    I'm just speechless at Ren's talent. Truly.

  • @katarinawikstrom2578
    @katarinawikstrom2578 Před 10 měsíci

    I love the way you get sucked into the music, just like you are there when it all happened. You are brilliant!

  • @h0113r0
    @h0113r0 Před rokem +7

    this will be interesting. Is it the full version? Violette´s Tale as well?

  • @silentwhisp4r670
    @silentwhisp4r670 Před rokem

    Awesome reaction! Look forward to future Ren reactions!

  • @bethscott4330
    @bethscott4330 Před 11 měsíci

    Loved watching you experience the story.

  • @sketchtherapy1218
    @sketchtherapy1218 Před rokem +5

    Ren loves reactors and does interviews with them you don't have to react to the interviews you can just watch them to understand what is behind his creations and what he hsa suffered, endured & enjoyed.

    • @PoliticallyPink
      @PoliticallyPink Před rokem

      I'm always running into you at these reactions. Hi again! Do you sketch? I DO, a lot!

  • @TRPLD
    @TRPLD Před rokem +14

    Great reaction! Absolutely loved it! I think you might enjoy Money Game Pt.1 and Pt. 2, first one is a 5 minute live one take, second one is just "chefs kiss".

  • @louise11854
    @louise11854 Před rokem

    I enjoyed your reaction! i lived in texas for a while, so i really appreciated your 'y'alls'!! you're just at the entrance of the ren rabbit hole, carry on and have fun. much love, kathleen

    • @Doug.Helvering
      @Doug.Helvering  Před rokem +1

      I use “y’all” intentionally, as it’s a plural pronoun that doesn’t gender my audience. :)

  • @rubenagostinho7
    @rubenagostinho7 Před rokem +1

    Ren has becomed my favourite artist for years! Followed him since hearing him play on the street and I can't stop hearing him play! Real music, real artist, who's open with his ups and downs. True Shakespearean experience! Thank you for reviewing him

  • @joeuncoolio
    @joeuncoolio Před rokem +2

    I try to figure out how to categorize what Ren is doing. Shakespearen is absolutley the best description. This is modern musical theater. Amazing art.

  • @michaelphipps8647
    @michaelphipps8647 Před rokem +4

    Genesis, Illest of our time, The Hunger, Losing it, Chalk Outlines, How to be Me, all 🔥!!! For Joe his latest release is a must! Subscribed for more Ren, loved your reaction, you nailed it! ❤

  • @neiladdison4457
    @neiladdison4457 Před rokem +2

    It's a masterpiece! I love Money Game pt2. Give that a try... More brilliance🙌

  • @jbftcmof
    @jbftcmof Před rokem +6

    I recommend switching it up a little and doing The Hunger. Ren is a fantastic lyricist.

  • @Phoenix_flying
    @Phoenix_flying Před 3 měsíci

    Great reaction. Thank you. No words.

  • @Codex7777
    @Codex7777 Před rokem +3

    An interview I'd highly recommend, is Ren's interview/discussion with the CZcams reactor, Rosalie. It really gives a great insight into Ren's thoughts and how he views the World. As with his art, he's extremely honest, open and intelligent. He occasionally does that thing where he slightly stumbles over his words. You can tell it's not because he's tongue-tied, it's because he's thinking about 20 steps ahead, down the pathways of various possible pathways and is just trying to get it all out. :)

  • @paulawallace7622
    @paulawallace7622 Před 11 měsíci

    Your reaction was perfect! You didn't get it until the end! That was GOLD!

  • @themojoslide
    @themojoslide Před rokem

    Its a jaw dropper! 😮 A remarkable piece of work!

  • @cherylhurst7093
    @cherylhurst7093 Před 8 měsíci

    Thanks for covering Ren again. This is a masterpiece. I have been watching different reactions to Hi Ren from opera singers to psychiatrists. Very interesting how this reaches so many people. I love how he uses many techniques to create emotion with his instruments and his voice.

  • @asscancerjohnny
    @asscancerjohnny Před rokem +1

    I've seen so many tale if Jenny and screech reactions and this is definitely one kf my favorites! Love your takes and knowledge

  • @itsalladream
    @itsalladream Před rokem

    I've heard these songs so many times, but still get goose bumps at the end.

  • @mldkenny
    @mldkenny Před rokem +2

    Ren is in a league of his own, so pleased you did this one. If you wish to hear pure vocal brilliance x 2 please do Chalk Outlines X Chinchilla LIVE.

  • @arbel7655
    @arbel7655 Před 2 měsíci

    I'd also like to give some love to the way he uses acoustics and ambiant sounds of his surroundings as he tells his tales. It just gives me chills!

  • @caro.k2958
    @caro.k2958 Před rokem +1

    Ren did a series of posts in character as screech around the time of the release that gave background and some context. Also cameraman singular for these is his friend Sam Perry Falvey who is genius too behind the lens.❤

  • @jasonstewart3996
    @jasonstewart3996 Před rokem +1

    Ren has stated in an interview that he is working on something he wants to pitch to Netflix or some of the other movie/tv platforms. I hope he does

  • @mikeynma
    @mikeynma Před rokem +3

    This is probably one of the only times you dont want to read lyric as you are watching. It will spoil the impact...and its hard to hide when you already read it.

  • @rbruceBruce
    @rbruceBruce Před rokem +13

    Ren said in a recent interview that he loves doing stuff like this and is working on another big one and trying to get a Netflix story. That would be awesome 👌

  • @marcel1416
    @marcel1416 Před rokem +1

    Can we appreciate what a great musician/songwriter/performer/producer - or artist in general - Ren is?
    In a sea if meaningless and copy&paste music (which also can be fun, but still...) thats at the top of the charts, we get this breath of fresh air.
    My playlist for the last few months has been like 90% Ren. I think the last Artist(s) that had such an inpact on me was Linkin Park, who I still listen to (I'm in my 30s) and maybe Nightwish (since Floor's joined).

  • @cloaker2375
    @cloaker2375 Před 4 měsíci +1

    Ren lived in Brighton while recording Jenny's Tale and Screech's tale, and I believe Violet's Tale was recorded in Calgary (fact-check please), as he was getting medical treatment in Canada. To answer 10:54

  • @hollyryalsgrubb1273
    @hollyryalsgrubb1273 Před rokem +2

    This trilogy really asks one to consider how society fails people. And I am still thinking about that and if there are any solutions.
    Another Ren gem aligned with this live one-take cinematic genre is Money Game 1. Really imersive.
    The live version of Chalk Outlines is another one; as a bonus, you'll meet the artist Chinchilla too. Follow that up with their live How To Be Me.
    An earlier music video is a total masterpiece - look for Crutch, but be warned that it's heartwrenching.
    So many of his other music videos are completely different. He explores a vast array of topics, styles and vibes.
    He pays homage to the Verve with a remake of Bittersweet Symphony. He remakes Fisher in Losing It. He lays down hip hop in The Hunger. His song Power will have you singing along.
    There's sooooo much to explore.....and then there's his teamwork with Sam Tompkins and also with the busking band The Big Push. It's a very deep rabbit hole when you consider Ren....

  • @lisamayreed6399
    @lisamayreed6399 Před rokem

    Great reaction....it def pulls at you...new sub.❤

  • @jrbush1
    @jrbush1 Před rokem +1

    Ren is a next-level artist. Crazy good.

  • @valkyrie1066
    @valkyrie1066 Před 2 měsíci

    It's mind blowing....his guitar gets me right away, every time. (I love spanish/classical guitar) The PERFORMANCE...with all the clicks, sounds, unusual guitar usage...He is a total package; from shakesperian actor to rapper and all the way around... ❤️❤️

  • @wexfordgirl1
    @wexfordgirl1 Před rokem +11

    Ren saw a news report about a teenager who stabbed another (knife crime has risen last few years). The quote "it's such a shame" was a direct quote from a Police Officer during a press conference announcing the crime. That was his inspiration. The test is him - the genius.