Tracy Chapman made a surprise appearance at the 2024 Grammys and received some well-deserved flowers from her peers.
The Grammy Award-winner joined country singer Luke Combs on stage at the 66th Grammys Award show where they performed a duet of her 1989 hit “Fast Car.” Combs released a cover of the song in 2023, introducing a new generation to the musical genius that is Tracy Chapman.
Chapman opened the performance playing the familiar chords on her acoustic guitar, her unmistakable voice permeated the room sparking cheers from the audience. She and Combs bounced back and forth on the verses and then sang together on the chorus. When they finished, the star-studded audience jumped to their feet and erupted in applause. Moments after their performance, Chapmans’ rendition of “Fast Car”shot to No.1 on the iTunes Top Songs chart.
Combs’ cover of the song resulted in some history making wins for Chapman.
“Fast Car” went to No. 1 on the Country Airplay chart making Tracy Chapman the first Black woman ever to top the chart. She also became the first Black songwriter to win Song of The Year at the 2023 CMA Awards. The original version of “Fast Car” peaked at No. 6 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart after its release.
This wasn’t the folk singer’s first time performing “Fast Car” at the Grammys. She graced the stage in 1989 where she performed a soul-stirring rendition of her hit song.”Fast-Car” also won best female pop vocal performance that year.
“I never expected to find myself on the country charts, but I’m honored to be there,” The songwriter told Billboard.
“I’m happy for Luke and his success and grateful that new fans have found and embraced ‘Fast Car.’”
The Cleveland native has only made a few public appearances since 2009, in 2015 she appeared on the Late Show where she celebrated David Letterman’s retirement by performing a rendition of “Stand By Me.” In 2020, she sang her song “Talkin’ ’Bout a Revolution” on Late Night with Seth Meyers.
We are not sure what this timeless beauty has been up to in recent years, but judging from her bright eyes, flawless skin and in-tact edges, Auntie has been living well and prioritizing her peace. But if there is some new music? A tour perhaps? Only time will tell.
But Tracy Nicole Chapman has nothing to prove. Her music has transcended generations and genres. Her exemplary body of work ,which includes eight studio albums, two compilation albums and 22 singles, is enough to last us for 20 lifetimes.
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This was such a good article. It read like a good ole girl chat. Tracy’s music is timeless and I’m glad to see her Grace the stage again. Well done Jameelah.