A Study in Contrast and Harmonies
Released on Taylor Swift's surprise 2020 album Folklore, "Exile" is a brooding, cinematic duet that explores the breakdown of a relationship. The song is physically demanding not because of high notes, but because of its range width and the need for subtle emotional coloring.
The track relies on the interplay between Bon Iver's (Justin Vernon) incredibly deep, resonant baritone/bass register and Taylor's breathy, conversational lower-alto range. To score high on this track, you need to master your chest voice resonance.
AI Coach Tip: Relax Your Jaw
To hit the low C#2 in the opening verse, do not press your chin into your neck. Keep your head level and your jaw completely relaxed. Think of the sound vibrating in your chest, not your throat.
Phase 1: The Deep Lows (0:00 - 1:33)
Justin Vernon begins the song in the key of G♭ Major. The opening line "I can see you standin', honey" requires a steady, warm tone. He descends to a C#2, which is near the bottom limit for many male singers.
The Trap: Singers often resort to "vocal fry" to hit these notes. The AI Coach deducts points for fry that loses pitch definition. Support the sound with your diaphragm, even at low volume, to maintain a true musical note.
Phase 2: The Conversational Alto (1:34 - 2:16)
Taylor enters with a lighter, airier texture. While the notes are not high (hovering around G♭3 to D♭4), the challenge is diction. The storytelling is paramount.
- Breathiness: Taylor uses a stylized "breathy" tone. You can mimic this, but ensure you don't run out of air before the end of the phrase.
- Rhythm: The delivery is almost spoken. Avoid singing too strictly on the beat; allow for a slight "push and pull" (rubato).
Phase 3: The Bridge Overlap (2:55 - 3:50)
This is the climax of the song. The vocals overlap in a call-and-response structure ("I gave so many signs...").
If you are singing the lead, you must hold your melodic line against the counter-melody. The intensity builds here, rising to a C#5 in the harmonies. You should switch to a stronger mix voice here to convey the frustration in the lyrics, contrasting with the resignation of the verses.
Frequently Asked Questions
Justin Vernon hits a C#2 (on "understudy"). This is an exceptionally low note for pop music, firmly in the Bass range.
Yes. The Singing Coach AI app allows you to mute either Taylor's or Bon Iver's vocal track, so you can fill in the missing part and practice the duet dynamics.
The song is in G♭ Major (or F# Major). It moves at a slow tempo of roughly 76 BPM.
