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

Join DaniLeigh's Journey of Faith in Latest Single, "G.O.D."

Join DaniLeigh's Journey of Faith in Latest Single, "G.O.D."

March 23, 2026 A triple threat of confidence, grace, and talent, as well as a 2018 OTW alum, DaniLeigh gave us the pleasure of an exclusive convo around the release.
Author: DJ Connor
pop
rap
R&B
Meet Dominique Da Silva Through the Eyes of Sofia Valdés [Q&A]

Meet Dominique Da Silva Through the Eyes of Sofia Valdés [Q&A]

March 23, 2026 As two genuine besties recognizing the beauty of themselves in one another, Valdés and Da Silva giggle through discussing studying English literature, their shared latin roots, and the role family plays in shaping oneself.
Author: Jazmin Kylene
pop
PIAO Grapples With Identity On New Single “if i am me, then who are you?”

PIAO Grapples With Identity On New Single “if i am me, then who are you?”

March 20, 2026 PIAO’s new single sees the artist interrogating her own feelings surrounding this question, pairing introspective lyrics with glitchy production.
Author: India McCarty
pop