Tracy Chapman has solidified her place in music history as the first Black woman to score a number one country song on Billboard’s Country Airplay chart as the sole writer. According to Rolling Stone, Luke Combs’ rendition of “Fast Car” from Chapman’s 1988 self-titled record is set to hit number one.
Chapman’s accomplishment is particularly significant because she penned the song entirely on her own. Previous Black artists and musicians’ contributions to the country music scene have been more collaborative in nature. For example, Dolly Parton’s 1980 hit “Starting Over Again” was co-written with Donna Summer, Patricia Yearwood’s 1994 track “XXX’s and OOO’s (An American Girl)” featured writing credits from Alice Randall and Lady A’s 2020 single “Champagne Night” included songwriting expertise from Rihanna and Katy Perry collaborator Ester Dean.
According to Billboard, Chapman reacted positively to the news, issuing a statement that she was happy for Combs and his new take on the classic song. “I never expected to find myself on the country charts, but I’m honored to be there. I’m happy for Luke and his success and grateful that new fans have found and embraced ‘Fast Car.'” Chapman said in regard to the history-making success.
Luke Combs’ cover of Tracy Chapman’s “Fast Car” serves as a part of the track listing for his fourth studio album Getting Old which was released earlier this year on March 24 via Columbia Records Nashville and River House Records. His third studio album, Growin’ Up, which serves as a companion album to Getting Old was released on June 24 last year.
Leave a Comment