When Love's Exceptions Become the Rule | The Only Exception | The Pretenders

The Only Exception by The Pretenders is a song that has been praised for its poignant lyrics and soaring melody. Released in 2008 as part of their album Break Up the Concrete, the song tells the story of a person struggling to come to terms with the end of a relationship.

The song's narrator is consumed by regret and longing, unable to move on from the memories of what once was. The lyrics are filled with vivid imagery, painting a picture of a love that has been lost but still lingers in the heart. "I'll be yours if you'll be mine / You can be my sunshine", the narrator pleads, highlighting the desperation and yearning that defines their emotions.

One of the most striking aspects of The Only Exception is its soaring chorus, with "You are the only exception" becoming a haunting refrain that resonates long after the song has ended. This sense of longing and regret is woven throughout the lyrics, creating a sense of introspection and emotional depth that is rare in contemporary pop music.

Despite the heartbreak at its core, The Only Exception is ultimately a hopeful song, one that suggests that even in the darkest moments, there is always the possibility for redemption and renewal. "You are the only exception / To my rules", the narrator sings, implying that this lost love has changed them in ways they never thought possible.

Overall, The Only Exception is a powerful and emotive song that showcases The Pretenders' ability to craft songs that are both deeply personal and universally relatable. Its themes of heartbreak, longing, and redemption have resonated with listeners around the world, making it one of the band's most beloved and enduring tracks.