Bon Iver’s Justin Vernon Reflects on Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour Performance of “Exile”

Table of Contents

1. Key Highlights
2. Introduction
3. An “Out of Body” Experience
4. The Collaborative Landscape of Modern Music
5. Vernon’s Upcoming Album: “Sable, Fable”
6. The Role of Sampling in Modern Music
7. Emotionally-Charged Music Experiences
8. Future Implications for Music Collaborations
9. Conclusion
10. FAQ

Key Highlights

• Justin Vernon describes watching Taylor Swift fans sing “Exile” during her Eras Tour as an “out of body” experience.
• The collaboration between Vernon and Swift on “Exile” showcases a unique connection between artists and their audiences.
• Vernon shares insights on his upcoming album, “Sable, Fable,” and the creative process behind it.
• He also reveals his collaboration with Bonnie Raitt and Charli XCX, highlighting the power of sampling in today’s music landscape.

Introduction

In a musical landscape that thrives on collaborations and cross-genre influences, few moments resonate as strongly as watching an audience sing word-for-word along to a song by their favorite artist. For Justin Vernon, the frontman of the acclaimed indie folk band Bon Iver, experiencing tens of thousands of Taylor Swift fans belting out “Exile” at her record-breaking Eras Tour was a surreal and powerful moment. The emotional weight of this experience serves as a testament to the deeper connections formed through music, as Vernon shared during his recent appearance on The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon.

An “Out of Body” Experience

Vernon described the sensation of seeing Swift perform “Exile” as "out of body," underscoring the profound impact music can have on both artist and audience. The song, which was co-written by Vernon and Swift, has transcended its original recording to take on a life of its own within these enormous auditoriums filled with fans.

"Sadly, I didn’t ever get to sing it with her on her tour... I saw those clips and I’m like, ‘Gosh, they sound better than one of me can sound,’” he said, reflecting on the performance and the symbiosis created when fans engage passionately with music.

The audience's response illustrates how Taylor Swift’s artistry resonates deeply, evoking emotional responses and creating a communal experience that leaves lasting impressions on those present.

The Collaborative Landscape of Modern Music

Vernon’s engagement with Swift is part of a broader trend in contemporary music where artists frequently collaborate across genres, leading to innovative sounds and fresh perspectives. This fluidity between music styles has blurred traditional lines, resulting in transformative collaborations that elevate entire songs, genres, and careers.

Taylor Swift, known for her versatile discography that includes country, pop, and indie-folk, previously collaborated with Vernon on “Exile” from her 2020 album “Folklore.” This partnership reflects a broader trend that champions the fusion of artist identities in the name of creative expression.

The Significance of “Exile”

“Exile” features haunting vocals and poignant lyrics that delve into themes of heartbreak and longing. The collaboration represents not just a merging of styles but also a synthesis of experiences shared by both artists, effectively bridging the gap between the two distinct musical worlds they occupy.

The success of “Exile” exemplifies the cultural phenomenon of artist collaboration and highlights how such partnerships can amplify a song's message. The chance for audiences to experience this collaboration live on Swift's tour has solidified its place in contemporary music culture.

Vernon’s Upcoming Album: “Sable, Fable”

As he prepares to release his fifth studio album, “Sable, Fable,” on April 11, 2025, Vernon anticipates a different kind of emotional journey than what fans may expect from his previous works. The album is described as a two-part narrative:

• Sable: The first part of the album delves into deeper emotional valleys, reflecting on past experiences with a focus on introspection and personal struggle.
• Fable: The latter half symbolizes a departure into a more uplifting, happier sound reflecting Vernon's pursuit of joy and fulfillment in art and life.

Vernon stated, "The first portion... is sad and hard to get through and kind of drudgy. The rest of the record is me kind of doing whatever I needed to do right now to be happy for once.” This explorative duality within the album offers listeners a comprehensive view of his artistic process as it continues to evolve.

The Role of Sampling in Modern Music

In addition to discussing “Exile,” Vernon expressed his excitement about collaborating with Bonnie Raitt and Charli XCX. This dialogue touches on the increasing prominence of sampling within contemporary music, a practice that serves as a homage to musical heritage while creating opportunities for new interpretations and sounds.

Vernon revealed that he sought Raitt's permission to sample her iconic 1989 song “Nick of Time” for a Charli XCX remix. His approach to this collaboration illustrates not only respect for musical history but also a desire to contribute to the ongoing dialogue within the music industry.

“My friend Danielle Haim told me, ‘You should sample ‘Nick of Time' the old Bonnie Raitt song,’ and I was like, ‘That’s such a good idea,’ because Charli’s song was about running out of time,” he explained, showcasing how collaborative ideas emerge from shared networks within music.

The resultant track demonstrates not merely the ability to innovate on established sounds but highlights a kind of cultural reverence that continues to shape the music industry landscape.

Emotionally-Charged Music Experiences

The conversations surrounding “Exile" and the emotional journeys both Vernon and Swift navigate through their music evoke a compelling discourse on the transformative power of music. It creates spaces for community, connection, and healing, extending far beyond the confines of a concert arena.

Swift’s Eras Tour has emerged as a milestone not only for her career but also for those who find solace within the shared experience of music. It's an exploration of identity, nostalgia, and connection that resonates through the voices of those who attend her shows.

Future Implications for Music Collaborations

Looking forward, Vernon's insights and continued collaboration with established artists may inspire a new wave of musical exchanges that will redefine how contemporary music is produced and experienced. As artists increasingly share creative spaces, fans have more opportunities to engage with different genres.

This exchange among artists not only encourages creative collaboration but also fosters a deeper understanding of shared experiences and emotional landscapes. Each performance becomes a living artistic expression, one that evolves and resonates as fans contribute their voices and stories.

Conclusion

Justin Vernon's recent reflections offer a fascinating glimpse into the ever-evolving nature of contemporary music and artistry. As he prepares to release new work with “Sable, Fable,” the anticipation for what lies ahead—be it new sounds or deeper emotional connections—continues to grow. The collaboration between Vernon and Swift on “Exile” symbolizes the incredible potential of music to unite and transform audiences while navigating personal stories and shared experiences.

FAQ

What did Justin Vernon say about watching Taylor Swift fans sing “Exile”?

Vernon described it as an “out of body” experience, noting the powerful connection between the audience and the song.

What is the theme of Vernon’s upcoming album “Sable, Fable”?

The album is a two-part journey, with the first part focusing on sadness and reflection, while the second part embraces happiness and fulfillment.

How does sampling play a role in modern music according to Vernon?

Vernon sees sampling as a way to pay homage to musical history and create new interpretations of classic songs, exemplified by his collaboration with Charli XCX using Bonnie Raitt's song.

What is the significance of “Exile” in Taylor Swift’s discography?

“Exile” represents a fusion of styles and thematic depth, highlighting the emotional resonance and audience engagement that can result from artist collaborations.

How does audience participation affect live music performances?

Audience singing along transforms a concert into a communal experience, deepening the emotional impact of music and reinforcing the connection between fans and artists.