The History Behind Tracy Chapman’s “Fast Car,” Which Has Experienced A Resurgence In A New Generation & Genre
Tracy Chapman released “Fast Car” in 1988 as the lead single off of her debut studio album. Chapman served as the sole songwriter behind the track.
“Fast Car” reached the sixth spot on the all-genre Billboard Hot 100 following its release. It also earned three Grammy nominations. Those nominations came in the categories for Record of the Year, Song of the Year, and Best Female Pop Vocal Performance. Chapman won the latter award.
“Fast Car” has been covered many times over the years. But recently, one cover took off and became a popular hit for a new generation…and genre.
Luke Combs Takes “Fast Car” To The #1 Spot On The Country Chart
Country music star Luke Combs recorded “Fast Car” for his 2023 album Gettin’ Old. The song soared up the charts immediately after its release. It reached the #2 spot on the all-genre Billboard Hot 100…higher than Chapman’s original recording.
In addition, “Fast Car” reached the #1 spot on Billboard’s Country Airplay chart.
Luke Combs’ ‘Fast Car’ Will Help Tracy Chapman Make History https://t.co/456NFtzXvf
— Alex Ward (@alexbward) July 5, 2023
After “Fast Car” claimed the Country Airplay chart’s top spot, Chapman became the first black woman to earn a #1 country hit as a solo songwriter. Also, it marked the first time a country cover of a pop song topped the Country Airplay chart since Blake Shelton‘s rendition of “Home” by Michael Bublé accomplished the feat in 2008.
How Did Tracy Chapman Respond To Luke Combs “Fast Car” Cover?
Chapman shared a statement with Billboard after Combs’ version of “Fast Car” became a #1 country hit. She expressed her surprise about the song’s ascent up the Country Airplay chart:
“I never expected to find myself on the country charts, but I’m honored to be there,” Chapman said. “I’m happy for Luke and his success and grateful that new fans have found and embraced ‘Fast Car.'”
Congratulations to Chapman and Combs! Watch Combs sing “Fast Car” below to see why it’s one of the hottest songs of the summer.