Answer: who wrote Exile
“Exile” is a track by Taylor Swift featuring Bon Iver, from her 2020 album Folklore. The songwriting credits belong to Taylor Swift and Justin Vernon (the lead singer of Bon Iver), with production by Swift and Aaron Dessner. Certain background elements also involve instrumentation and vocal work from collaborators including Jack Antonoff and Bryan Devendorf. In short, the song was written by Taylor Swift and Justin Vernon, making it a co-written piece central to Folklore’s narrative and emotional tone.
Album context: Folklore
Folklore is the eighth studio album by Taylor Swift, released on July 24, 2020. It marked a creative shift toward indie folk and alternative sounds, largely due to its development during the COVID-19 pandemic. The album emphasizes storytelling, atmospheric production, and intimate lyricism. “Exile” serves as one of its centerpiece tracks, reflecting themes of heartbreak and longing. The collaboration with Justin Vernon signaled a notable departure from Swift’s earlier pop-centric work.
Songwriting credits: verified names and roles
Primary writers
The primary writers of “Exile” are:
- Taylor Swift — lyrics, melody, and concept
- Justin Vernon (Bon Iver) — lyrics, melody, and vocal features
Production and additional contributions
Production credits include Taylor Swift and Aaron Dessner. Additional musicians and engineers such as Jack Antonoff and Bryan Devendorf contributed instrumentation and vocal arrangements, but are not listed as songwriters on the official copyright registration. Understanding this distinction helps clarify who wrote the lyrics and music versus who performed or produced them.
| Name | Contribution | Credit Type |
|---|---|---|
| Taylor Swift | Lyrics, melody, concept | Writer |
| Justin Vernon | Lyrics, melody, vocals | Writer |
| Aaron Dessner | Production, instrumentation | Producer |
| Jack Antonoff | Engineering, additional instrumentation | Contributor |
| Bryan Devendorf | Drums, percussion | Contributor |
Background and inspiration
“Exile” was conceived during the early months of the pandemic when Swift and Dessner were exploring ideas for Folklore. The track was imagined as a dramatic dialogue between two characters who are no longer on speaking terms. Justin Vernon’s involvement came through Dessner, with whom he had prior musical connections. The lyrics reflect perspectives of regret and separation, heightening the song’s cinematic quality. This collaborative process was distinct from Swift’s usual solo writing sessions, marking a new chapter in her approach to album-making.
Release and commercial performance
“Exile” was released as part of Folklore on July 24, 2020. It gained significant attention for its emotional depth and Vernon’s feature. The song entered the US Billboard Hot 100 and peaked within the top 20, while also charting in multiple international markets. Streaming numbers and radio play sustained long after the album’s release, underlining its impact. The track’s success further cemented Folklore as a critical and commercial milestone in Swift’s career.
Critical reception and legacy
Critics praised “Exile” for its writing, production, and the interplay between Swift and Vernon. Many highlighted the vivid storytelling and the risks taken by blending folk textures with mainstream appeal. In retrospective reviews, the song is frequently cited as a highlight of Folklore and a signature collaboration for both artists. Its lasting influence can be seen in how it opened doors for more experimental, narrative-driven projects in Swift’s later work.
Conclusion
“Exile” was written by Taylor Swift and Justin Vernon, with production by Swift and Aaron Dessner. Additional contributors such as Jack Antonoff and Bryan Devendorf shaped its sound but are not songwriting credits. The song’s development, context within Folklore, and critical success illustrate a turning point in Swift’s artistic journey. Understanding these credits and roles clarifies the collaborative nature of the track and affirms its place as a defining song of the 2020 era.