7 Shocking Facts About Ren Gill And The Viral Masterpiece 'Hi Ren' That Led To A #1 Album

The viral phenomenon of "Hi Ren" is more than just a powerful song; it is the raw, unedited chronicle of an independent artist's decade-long battle with chronic illness and mental health, culminating in a historic chart victory. As of late 2024, the song and its creator, Ren Eryn Gill, continue to capture global attention, not just for the artistic brilliance of the eight-minute performance, but for the unprecedented success of his independently released album, Sick Boi, which solidified his status as a true lyrical genius and a voice for the chronically ill.

The journey from busking on the streets of Brighton to securing a UK Official Albums Chart #1 spot is a testament to the power of authentic, unfiltered storytelling. Ren's work, particularly the haunting dialogue in "Hi Ren," has resonated with millions, creating a dedicated following that values his transparency about living with debilitating conditions like Lyme disease and the subsequent mental health struggles. The latest updates in 2025 show that Ren's momentum is not slowing down, with new music and a temporary reunion with his former band, The Big Push, on the horizon.

Ren Gill: Full Biography and Profile

Ren Eryn Gill, known professionally simply as Ren, is a multi-talented Welsh singer-songwriter, musician, rapper, producer, actor, and director.

• 5 Shocking Facts About Anna Congdon Penn State Sweetheart To Nfl Fiances Social Media Firestorm Cc90e

• Full Name: Ren Eryn Gill
• Date of Birth: March 29, 1990
• Age (as of 2025): 35
• Birthplace: Bangor, Wales
• Hometown/Upbringing: Dwyran, Anglesey, Wales
• Musical Genres: Hip-Hop, Rap, Indie, Blues, Spoken Word
• Primary Instruments: Guitar, Vocals, Production
• Early Career: Member of the indie hip-hop band Trick The Fox (disbanded 2013) and the British busking collective The Big Push, known for their performances in Brighton.
• Chronic Illness Diagnosis: Diagnosed with Lyme disease and co-infections, which he has battled since 2009. He was previously misdiagnosed with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS) and Bipolar Disorder.
• Breakthrough Single: "Hi Ren" (Released December 2022)
• Chart-Topping Album: Sick Boi (Released 2023)
• Online Presence: Operates under the moniker RenMakesMusic.

The Phenomenon of 'Hi Ren': A Lyrical Confrontation

The song "Hi Ren" is not merely a musical track; it is an eight-minute piece of performance art that has become a viral sensation and a cultural touchstone for discussions on mental health. Released in December 2022, the video, which features Ren sitting in a chair, directly confronts his inner demons and chronic pain.

1. The Unflinching Dialogue Between Two Selves

The core of "Hi Ren" is a powerful, theatrical dialogue between two distinct personalities: the artist, Ren, and his inner critic, a malevolent voice personified as a dark, suited figure.

The opening section features Ren, frail and vulnerable, playing a blues riff, only to be interrupted by the aggressive, rapid-fire rap of the inner voice. This lyrical confrontation explores themes of self-doubt, imposter syndrome, and the crushing weight of chronic illness.

• Shania Twains Bold Statement Why The Star Chose Nude Photoshoots At 57 Qf9cg

2. A Raw Look at Chronic Illness and Misdiagnosis

The song's intensity is amplified by the knowledge of Ren's real-life health struggles. Ren has been battling Lyme disease since 2009, a condition that took years to correctly diagnose, leading to misdiagnoses of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and Bipolar Disorder.

The music video was filmed during a period of severe relapse, lending an authentic, almost painful quality to the performance. The song serves as a defiant battle cry against the physical and mental toll of his condition, transforming suffering into art.

3. The Independent Artist's Historic Chart Victory

The success of "Hi Ren" was the catalyst for the monumental achievement of Ren's second studio album, Sick Boi. Released in 2023, the album, which features a diverse mix of hip-hop, rock, and spoken word, stormed straight to the top of the UK Official Albums Chart.

• The Untouchable Privacy 7 Secrets Of Rachel Mcadams And Jamie Lindens Life Beyond The Red Carpet E820e

This was a historic moment for an independent artist, as Ren managed to outsell major label artists, including music legend Rick Astley, who was also releasing a new album at the time. This victory was widely celebrated as a triumph for grassroots music and the power of a dedicated, organic fanbase.

The 'Sick Boi' Era and 2025 Updates

Following the viral explosion of "Hi Ren," the Sick Boi album cycle has brought forth new entities and further cemented Ren's status as a lyrical force. The project is a collection of painfully honest tracks that delve into his medical journey, mental landscape, and critiques of the modern world.

4. The Award-Winning 'Money Game, Pt. 3'

One of the most notable tracks on Sick Boi is "Money Game, Pt. 3," a complex narrative rap song that has garnered significant critical acclaim. The accompanying music video, directed by Samuel Perry Falvey, has won multiple awards for its concept and direction.

The success of the "Money Game" series highlights Ren's versatility, moving from the raw emotionality of "Hi Ren" to the intricate storytelling and social commentary of his hip-hop tracks. In 2024, Ren performed "Money Game, Pt. 2" at the prestigious Sky Arts Awards, marking his first major television performance.

5. The Ongoing Health Battle and Treatment

Ren has been remarkably transparent about his health, using his RenMakesMusic platform to provide updates. The battle with Lyme disease is an ongoing one, with periods of remission and severe relapse.

In January 2023, Ren traveled to Canada to receive specialized treatment for his chronic illness and co-infections, a journey he documented for his fans. His music, including tracks like "Screech's Tale," often acts as a form of therapy and public awareness for the millions who suffer from similar invisible illnesses.

6. The Return of The Big Push in 2025

Before his solo viral success, Ren was a key member of the popular Brighton-based busking band, The Big Push. The band gained a significant following for their powerful street performances.

In a major update for 2025, there are indications of a temporary reunion with The Big Push scheduled for mid-year, around June. This news has excited fans of his earlier work, offering a chance to see Ren return to his roots with his former bandmates, alongside the anticipation of new solo music drops "coming SOON" later in the year.

7. The Topical Authority of a Lyrical Genius

Ren's body of work, from "Hi Ren" and the Sick Boi album to earlier tracks with Trick the Fox, positions him as a rare artist with significant topical authority across multiple sensitive and complex subjects: mental health, chronic illness advocacy, pharmaceutical industry critique, and the struggles of the independent artist.

He seamlessly blends genres, utilizing rap, poetry, and acoustic guitar to deliver a message that bypasses traditional marketing, relying instead on raw emotional connection. This unique approach is why his fanbase, often referred to as the 'Renegades,' is so fiercely loyal, viewing his music as a lifeline and a validation of their own invisible battles.