Tracy Chapman Fast Car: The enigmatic singer-songwriter Tracy Chapman might not have graced the 57th annual Country Music Association Awards on Wednesday, but her presence was undoubtedly felt as her timeless song, “Fast Car,” became a major highlight of the night. The song, which experienced a resurgence through Luke Combs’ rendition this summer, clinched both Song and Single of the Year, marking 35 years since Chapman first recorded and released it.
As the first category announced during the CMAs ceremony, Single of the Year saw Combs express his gratitude to Chapman in his heartfelt acceptance speech. “I want to thank Tracy Chapman for writing one of the greatest songs of all time,” he enthused. “I just recorded it because I love this song so much. Its meant so much to me throughout my entire life. Its the first favorite song that I ever had, since I was 4 years old.”
In a quick turnaround, Combs returned to the podium to accept the Song of the Year award, typically reserved for songwriters. The audience erupted in cheers and a standing ovation when country legend Bill Anderson announced Chapman’s name. Sara Evans then read Chapmans brief acceptance speech: “Im sorry I couldnt join you all tonight. Its truly an honor for my song to be newly recognized after 35 years of its debut. Wow. Thank you to the CMAs, and a special thanks to Luke and to all of the fans of Fast Car.”
Combs’s version of “Fast Car” achieved massive crossover success in 2023, receiving airplay not only on country radio but also on top 40 and adult-contemporary stations. This catapulted Chapman, who hadn’t released new music since 2008, into a fresh audience, earning her an estimated $500,000 in royalties, according to Billboard. Moreover, when Combss rendition topped Billboards Country Airplay chart, Chapman became the first Black woman to achieve a solo country No. 1 hit with her composition. With this CMA victory, she made history again as the first Black songwriter, regardless of gender, to win Song of the Year since the CMA Awards’ inception 56 years ago.
The 2023 CMAs featured memorable moments, including an energetic opening performance of Need a Favor by Best New Artist winner Jelly Roll and a surprise appearance by Wynonna Judd. The night also witnessed an all-star tribute to Jimmy Buffett, emotional duets, and notable performances by various artists. Lainey Wilson emerged as the night’s big winner, securing honors in multiple categories.
The 57th annual Country Music Association Awards unfolded on Nov. 8 at Nashvilles Bridgestone Arena, with hosts Luke Bryan and Peyton Manning steering the ceremony. The event celebrated the diverse talent within the country music industry and highlighted the enduring impact of timeless songs like Tracy Chapman’s “Fast Car.”
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Our Reader’s Queries
Did Luke Combs pay Tracy Chapman for Fast Car?
Fans are happy about the royalties Chapman is making from the cover of “Fast Car” (Billboard approximated that, since she owns the publishing rights, she is entitled to a “substantial portion” of Combs’s around $500,000 in earnings up to now). They are also pleased that the singer is getting more attention.
Who covered Tracy Chapman Fast Car?
Many young adults born after 1988 are being introduced to Tracy Chapman this summer, all thanks to Luke Combs’s popular rendition of her timeless song “Fast Car,” currently ranking at No. 2 on the Billboard Hot 100.
Why did Luke Combs cover fast cars?
The country star revealed that the song caught his attention while he was driving with his father. He distinctly remembers a song called ‘Fast Car’ that left a lasting impression on him. This song has held significant meaning for him throughout his entire life.
How many versions of Fast Car are there?
Today, we are celebrating the iconic song, Fast Car, by sharing a curated list of 15 different versions for you to enjoy. The list kicks off with the original rendition, paying respect to its origin, followed by an alphabetically organized collection of 14 additional performances of this beloved song.