Released: 2015
In “Exchange,” Bryson Tiller dives deep into the emotional turbulence of a past relationship, expressing regret and longing for reconciliation. This track paints a vivid picture of his emotional journey, showcasing the complexity of love and his desire to make things right with his ex.
From the jump, Tiller admits, “This what happen when I think about you. I get in my feelings, yeah. I start reminiscing, yeah.” He’s admitting that thinking about his past lover throws him into an emotional spiral. He wishes for another chance, a different outcome next time around: “Next time around, fuck I want it to be different, yeah.” This sets the stage for the entire track’s mood.
His plea, “Lord please save her for me, do this one favor for me,” is raw and earnest. Tiller acknowledges he needed to change his ways, “I had to change my player ways, got way too complicated for me.” The artist is showing personal growth and maturity, hoping she waits for him despite his past mistakes.
In the second verse, Tiller paints a nostalgic picture, “We used to lay up and then stay up, have sex and then blow dank.” It’s clear he misses the simpler, intimate times they shared. He’s upfront about the games he played, admitting, “I shouldn’t have played no games with you, just leveled up my rank.” This indicates that his actions were to boost his status, but he’s regretting the impact it had on their relationship.
The line, “Guess it’s nothing I can do, man, it’s true, exes change, yeah,” speaks to the inevitability of change in relationships. Tiller acknowledges that she might have moved on and changed for the better. He admits to her ability to make him jealous, revealing, “I know you know how to make me jealous, I was never loyal, let you tell it, yo.” Despite his past disloyalty, he’s ready to make amends if she’s open to it.
As the verse continues, Tiller sets a scene at familiar local spots with, “Yeah, is you at Two Keys or Tin Roof? Turn up with young Tiller, we just gettin’ loose.” This brings the narrative into a relatable locale, making his feelings even more grounded. He’s earnest when he says, “Won’t fuck you over, wanna fuck you over and again,” showing his intention to make things right.
Wrapping up, the lyrics, “I was scrollin’ through the ‘Gram, girl, I had to follow you, say what’s up with you?” Tiller ends on a hopeful note, trying to reconnect. This song is a powerful confession of love, regret, and a desire for change, delivered with Tiller’s smooth, emotive style.
