Tracy Chapman Makes History as Luke Combs' 'Fast Car' Cover Tops Country Charts
Tracy Chapman made country music history with a 35-year-old song.
With Luke Combs' hit cover of the singer's classic "Fast Car" topping Billboard's Country Airplay, Chapman has now become the first-ever Black woman to have the sole songwriting credit on a No.1 country song on the chart, as well as on the Country Songwriters chart.
In an interview with Billboard from July 6, Chapman reacted to "Fast Car" becoming a hit again through Combs' cover. "I never expected to find myself on the country charts, but I'm honored to be here," she said. "I'm happy for Luke and his success and grateful that new fans have found and embraced 'Fast Car.'"
"Fast Car" became Chapman's breakthrough hit when released as her lead single for her 1988 self-titled debut album. The folk tune won over fans with a harrowing story about striving for survival while facing poverty, with an infectious chorus and an iconic acoustic guitar riff. It received Grammy nominations for Record of the Year, Song of the Year, and Best Female Pop Vocal Performance, winning the latter category.
The song touched many when it came out—including Combs. During a recent show, the country star explained the nostalgic reason why he picked to cover it. He explained that growing up, his dad introduced him to a diverse range of music but Chapman's hit struck a chord.
"There was this one song that really stuck out to me. It was called 'Fast Car.' That song meant a lot to me since then—for my whole life. I always think about my dad when it comes on and us spending time together."
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