Ren Plays Twisted "mind games" in the Form of Pop Perfection

image

There's something so eerily flawless about Canadian teen pop artist Ren. At only 16-years old, she has mastered the art of expressing her voice through pop perfection, as demonstrated in her sophomore single "mind games." When we were that age, we were most likely sitting in our rooms, dreaming about our crushes and not doing anything productive. And yes, this dazzling teenager creates innovative songs analyzing the "mind games" played between two parties in a relationship.

On the inspiration behind "mind games," Ren explained,

"I've always been fascinated by movies from directors like Guillermo Del Toro and Tim Burton. I like the movies made for kids, that aren't just fairytales; they introduce a new emotion to the genre of 'kids movies' that I think is so interesting and intriguing.

I tried to incorporate this creepiness into a love song, so that it's not just a mushy song about love, it's more freaky in how literal it is which was really fun for me to do. Lines like 'little bits of life flood in every time you smile' is my way of painting a picture for a listener and creating this world where I'm really in someone's head."

Just as her favorite directors do, Ren has effortlessly weaved her dark references into "mind games." Drawing musical inspiration from creative powerhouses Clairo and Kehlani, her airy vocals are the perfect means to convey the entertainment she feels from partaking in such games. The whimsical production, which incorporates rich electronic goodness and innovative vocals warps, is seemingly an ode to Tim Burton.

Be sure to experience Ren's twisted little world in "mind games:"

Related Articles

Crying City on Cyberpunk and the Neurology of Unlearning Someone [Q&A]

Crying City on Cyberpunk and the Neurology of Unlearning Someone [Q&A]

November 26, 2025 We chatted to the artist about her latest singles, "VOTED OUT" and "unlearning you."
Author: DJ Connor
pop
R&B
Q&A
Blair Davie, On Firsts, Lasts, and All the Love in Between

Blair Davie, On Firsts, Lasts, and All the Love in Between

November 24, 2025 We had the joy of learning more about Davie's latest EP, First and Last, after their show in LA.
Author: DJ Connor
pop
Genevieve Hannelius Tells A Story of True "Girlhood" On Title Track of Impending EP [Q&A]

Genevieve Hannelius Tells A Story of True "Girlhood" On Title Track of Impending EP [Q&A]

November 19, 2025 With the narrative, folk-pop track comes the announcement of her January 16th EP, GIRLHOOD.
Author: DJ Connor
pop