By Nina Praegis
After majoring in classical piano performance at USC in undergrad, Ren Liu grew new music from classical music roots and discovered a new way to express herself.
It has not been an easy journey for Ren on many levels. Ren’s road to success has taken some new turns. She is a survivor of eating disorders and addictions and wants to inspire with her music and advocacy for mental health.
“I started songwriting at a very desperate point in my life when I felt scared of everything,” Ren said. “I was feeling very out of control of myself and my relationships. There were more tears than relief, more yearning than satisfaction.
“As someone who lives with anxiety and depression in recovery and sobriety, I really hope my music can help listeners feel seen in their moments of fear,” Ren said. “I want to give a sense of serenity to the roller coaster ride of living with mental illness.”
Ren hopes people can remain strong during this tough time in our world.
“I think ‘Prayer for a Stranger’ is especially relevant this year where everyone’s mental health has been tested in unprecedented ways,” Ren Liu said. “It is a year of deep refection. I wrote this album looking for serenity and I hope that it can give a similar wave of serenity for listeners.”
Of the new EP, ‘Prayer For a Stranger,’ Ren said:
“The title track, ‘Prayer for a Stranger’ was my love letter to the Al-Anon community (loved ones of alcoholics) because of what that group did for me and my own healing,” she said. “So I do really hope anyone within that community can resonate and feel peaceful in regards to that song.”
Ren Liu on Soundcloud:
“Endless” on Youtube:
