Tracy Chapman’s Country Music Milestone Achieved with Remake of ‘Fast Car’
Tracy Chapman, known for her reclusive nature, has made a significant mark in music history this week. In an exclusive statement to Billboard, Chapman expressed her surprise and gratitude for her recent accomplishments in the country music scene.
Luke Combs, a prominent country star, covered Chapman’s iconic 1988 single “Fast Car,” which has now reached the coveted No. 1 spot on the Country Airplay chart. This achievement makes Chapman the first Black woman to claim the top position on this chart since its inception in 1990.
As the sole writer of “Fast Car,” Chapman’s contribution to the song has also led her to secure the No. 1 spot on Billboard’s Country Songwriters chart, all thanks to the success of Combs’ remake.
Combs’ rendition has surpassed Chapman’s original in terms of chart performance. While Chapman’s version peaked at No. 6 on the Billboard Hot 100 after its release in 1988, Combs’ cover currently sits at No. 2 on the same chart this week.
“Fast Car” served as the debut single from Chapman’s self-titled first album, garnering her a Grammy award in 1989 for Best Female Pop Vocal Performance, as well as nominations for Record of the Year and Song of the Year. Additionally, she triumphed in the categories of Best New Artist and Best Contemporary Folk Album that same year.
