Residente's New Version of "René" Brings Together 30 International Musicians, His Mom, and Rubén Blades

In late February, Residente gave us his most personal track yet. His single "René" is a seven-minute song that offers a glimpse of his real life while advocating for mental health. "René" resonated with his fans, overcoming them with feelings and making them cry. Many praised him for being so open and transparent and not being afraid to show his emotions in such a public way.

"This song helped me get out of a place that I didn't want to be in," Residente said in a press release at the time. "I needed to go back to my hometown and house to reconnect with my friends. I needed to go back to being me, René."

Now, with the global situation taking a toll on us, Residente stripped down once again and recorded an acoustic version of "René" with 30 international musicians; his mother, Flor Joglar de Gracia; and Rubén Blades. Every single person recorded their part from their home, and the result was mixed by Roberto Almodóvar and edited by Alejandro Pedrosa.

This acoustic version is another reminder that it's OK to feel vulnerable during this time, that it's OK to reminisce and go back to the times that made us happier, that it's also OK to allow yourself to just feel whatever it is that you're feeling. But this is also a reminder of how we can continue creating and adapting, no matter how many punches life throws at us, and that beautiful things can come out of uncertain times.

"I leave you all with 'René,'" Residente wrote accompanying this new approach to the song. "I haven't seen my mom or my son since this whole thing started, but I feel them close every day. Thank you mami for feeling this song as much as I do. Thank you to the 30 musicians who embraced us with their art in their shelter in place. Thank you to my eternal master Rubén Blades, and the great Leo Genovese for being an infinite expert."

With a piano, congas, violins, violas, violoncellos, double basses, and french horns, Residente's new approach to his song continues to move us, setting an example of unity during these times and proving once again that music is a universal language.