The Exception (Unreleased)

Olivia Rodrigo's song 'The Exception' paints a vivid picture of young love, capturing the essence of a romantic moment shared between two people. The lyrics describe a serene yet passionate scene where the couple is driving on the 405 freeway in Los Angeles, a place notorious for its traffic. Despite the standstill, the moment is filled with intimacy and connection, as they listen to Led Zeppelin and share tender kisses. The imagery of the 'oil painted sky' and the 'Moon's lit Cheshire cat' adds a dreamlike quality to the scene, emphasizing the beauty and magic of their time together.

The song delves deeper into the emotions of young love, highlighting the fear and uncertainty that often accompany it. The line 'Scared, I love you so much I'm scared' reveals the vulnerability and intensity of their feelings. Society often dismisses young love as either a fleeting experience or a lesson to be learned, but the protagonist believes that their love is different. The repeated assertion 'we're gonna be the exception' signifies a hopeful defiance against the common narrative, suggesting that their love will endure despite the odds.

Olivia Rodrigo's musical style, characterized by its raw emotion and relatable storytelling, shines through in 'The Exception.' The song resonates with listeners who have experienced the highs and lows of young love, capturing the universal desire to believe in a love that can stand the test of time. The cultural references, such as listening to Led Zeppelin and the LA traffic, ground the song in a specific time and place, making it even more relatable and poignant for those familiar with these experiences.