Exhale
Ella Vos & R3hab Lyrics

The lyrics of "Exhale" by Ella Vos and R3hab convey a sense of emotional turmoil and inner conflict within a relationship. The opening lines express a desire for a temporary escape or release, with the singer longing to be with their partner for just one more night. However, there is a barrier preventing open communication ("Said there can't be talk through the side"), suggesting a lack of honest dialogue and possibly unresolved issues between them. Despite this, the physical closeness is described beautifully with "Your, your limbs wrapped up with mine", creating a moment frozen in time amidst the uncertainty.

The imagery of holding one's breath and feeling a strain in the chest reflects the weight of unexpressed emotions and the struggle to maintain composure despite the mounting tension. The mention of the sun coming up signals a new day dawning, perhaps symbolizing a need for clarity or a fresh start. The chorus emphasizes the need to release these pent-up feelings, to finally exhale and let go of the burdens weighing heavily on the singer's heart. The repetition of "breathe in, then breathe out" underscores the rhythmic cycle of taking in and releasing emotions, highlighting the importance of finding release and inner peace.

As the song progresses, the lyrics delve into the singer's uncertainty and wavering confidence in their emotions. The verse describes a moment of doubt, where the singer questions their initial certainty and begins to reconsider their feelings. Despite the emotional turmoil and conflicting thoughts, the singer hesitates to confront the truth, as captured in the line "Still I hold my head, hesitate". This inner struggle adds layers to the song's theme of emotional complexity and the difficulty of facing one's true feelings.

The repeated chorus, with the plea to "exhale now", becomes a powerful refrain throughout the song, symbolizing a desperate need for release, resolution, and catharsis. The final lines, where the singer repeatedly asks "Can I exhale now, now?", encapsulate the overwhelming desire to finally let go and find peace within oneself. Overall, "Exhale" encapsulates a poignant journey of self-discovery, emotional release, and the tumultuous nature of navigating love and inner turmoil.