Tracy Chapman’s “Fast Car” Reaches #1 On iTunes, Nearly Four Decades After Its Release

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Tracy Chapman’s “Fast Car” climbs to the #1 spot on the U.S. iTunes chart following her Grammys performance, almost 36 years after its initial release.

Tracy Chapman and Luke Combs delivered a captivating duet of “Fast Car” on the Grammy Awards stage last night. The song, originally penned and performed by Chapman, has seen significant success for both artists.

RELATED: Tracy Chapman Joins Luke Combs for Grammy Awards Performance of “Fast Car”

Luke Combs and Tracy Chapman deliver a captivating performance of their hit song at the 66th Annual Grammy Awards.

As Luke and Tracy stepped onto the stage during the televised award ceremony, the audience was visibly captivated by their performance, with numerous individuals rising to their feet and joining in the singing. Although an unexpected pairing, their synergy was undeniable, drawing admiration from a fresh wave of fans who appreciate both renditions of the tune.

Their outstanding collaboration garnered them a well-deserved standing ovation.

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA - FEBRUARY 04: (FOR EDITORIAL USE ONLY) (L-R) Tracy Chapman and Luke Combs perform during the 66th GRAMMY Awards at Crypto.com Arena on February 04, 2024 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Timothy Norris/FilmMagic)
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The song received a nomination in this year’s Best Country Solo Performance category, but the trophy ultimately went to Chris Stapleton for his song “White Horse.”

Tracy Chapman’s “Fast Car” reaches #1 on the U.S. iTunes chart, making history alongside Luke Combs.

Following their stellar performance, Chapman’s original rendition claimed the top spot on the U.S. iTunes chart, a milestone previously achieved by Luke’s version, which topped country radio charts and reached #2 on the Billboard Hot 100. This marks the first time such a feat has occurred.

Tracy Chapman's "Fast Car" on the top of the iTunes chart.
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While iTunes didn’t exist when the song debuted in April 1988, witnessing it claim the #1 spot now is truly gratifying and speaks volumes about the song’s lasting quality.

The Grammys served as a notable occasion for Chapman, known for her rare appearances and preference for a quieter life since stepping back from the spotlight.

As reported by Variety, Tracy Chapman has graced the camera with her performance presence only three times following the conclusion of her last tour in 2009.

Tracy Chapman Praises Luke Combs’ Cover

Chapman commended Combs for his cover, indicating her satisfaction that it did justice to her song, evident in her decision to perform alongside Combs at the Grammys.

“I never expected to find myself on the country charts, but I’m honored to be there,” Chapman told Billboard in a statement. “I’m happy for Luke and his success and grateful that new fans have found and embraced ‘Fast Car.’”

Watch Chapman & Combs’ electrifying Grammy performance below!