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

Parcels Tell Us How It Feels to be LOVED [Q&A]

Parcels Tell Us How It Feels to be LOVED [Q&A]

September 15, 2025 This Berlin-via-Aussie band is pushing the bounds of their sonic exploration on their latest record, LOVED.
Author: DJ Connor
pop
Asia Holiday’s “Sweet Tea” is a Feel-Good Anthem

Asia Holiday’s “Sweet Tea” is a Feel-Good Anthem

September 14, 2025 Both an actress and a musician, Asia has a passion for performing that is clear through her sound, or what she fittingly describes as “theme songs that boost your confidence.”
Author: Chancey Stefanos
pop
R&B
Chloe Moriondo Dives To New Depths With "girls with gills"

Chloe Moriondo Dives To New Depths With "girls with gills"

September 10, 2025 The new track is a fierce alternative anthem that oozes a seductive, club-ready aura, feeling like a natural successor to her critically acclaimed recent album, oyster.
Author: Alessandra Rincon
pop