Tracy Chapman Honored as Luke Combs' Cover of "Fast Car" Makes History on Country Charts

Tracy Chapman, known for her reclusive nature, breaks her silence to acknowledge the historical moment sparked by her timeless hit, "Fast Car." In an exclusive statement to Billboard, Chapman expresses her unexpected delight at finding her song on the country charts and shares her admiration for Luke Combs' cover version. As Combs' rendition of "Fast Car" surpasses Chapman's original chart success, reaching No. 1 on the Country Airplay chart, a significant milestone is achieved. Chapman becomes the first Black woman to claim the top spot since the chart's establishment in 1990, further solidifying the song's enduring legacy.

The Impact of Luke Combs' Cover:

Luke Combs' rendition of "Fast Car" has made a remarkable ascent on the charts, surpassing Chapman's own chart performance. The track secures the No. 2 spot on the Billboard Hot 100, while Chapman's original peaked at No. 6 in 1988. This achievement not only highlights Combs' success but also signifies the continued popularity and appeal of Chapman's masterpiece. The cover version resonates with a new generation of fans, exposing them to the timeless beauty of "Fast Car."

Chapman's Historic Milestone:

Tracy Chapman's momentous accomplishment is twofold. Firstly, her status as the sole writer of "Fast Car" propels her to No. 1 on Billboard's Country Songwriters chart, courtesy of Combs' successful remake. This recognition underlines Chapman's exceptional talent as a songwriter and her enduring impact on the country music scene. Additionally, Combs' cover takes Chapman's legacy to new heights, making her the first Black woman to claim the top spot on the Country Airplay chart since its inception in 1990. This milestone is a testament to Chapman's artistic brilliance and the timeless relevance of her music.

Legacy and Grammy Recognition:

"Fast Car," as Chapman's debut single from her self-titled album, captured hearts worldwide upon its release. The iconic song not only garnered critical acclaim but also earned Chapman a well-deserved Grammy Award for Best Female Pop Vocal Performance in 1989. Additionally, it received nominations for Record of the Year and Song of the Year. Chapman's success extended beyond "Fast Car" as she also secured Grammy wins for Best New Artist and Best Contemporary Folk Album, solidifying her status as a multifaceted and celebrated artist.

Tracy Chapman's gracious response to Luke Combs' cover of "Fast Car" reflects her humility and appreciation for the song's enduring popularity. As Combs' version conquers the charts, Chapman's historic achievement as the first Black woman to top the Country Airplay chart since its inception is celebrated. The timeless impact of "Fast Car" on both Chapman's career and the music industry at large is undeniable, as evidenced by its Grammy recognition and continued resonance with audiences. The legacy of Tracy Chapman and her iconic song will continue to inspire and captivate generations to come.