Watch Tracy Chapman and Luke Perform “Fast Car” At 2024 Grammys
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An Iconic Performance Cemented At Grammy’s History
Tracy Chapman graced the stage at the 2024 Grammy Awards, delivering a heartfelt performance of her classic hit “Fast Car,” accompanied by Luke Combs, whose rendition of the song last year reignited its popularity. Both artists stayed true to the original, drawing thunderous applause from the audience as Chapman began singing. Combs, nominated for Best Country Solo Performance for his cover, included it on his album Gettin’ Old, released in 2023. Chapman made history when Combs’ cover reached No. 1 on the Country Airplay chart, becoming the first Black woman to achieve this feat with a solo composition in country music. Additionally, she clinched her first Country Music Association Award for Song of the Year with “Fast Car,” thanks to Combs’ rendition at the November 2023 ceremony. Chapman, a four-time Grammy winner, received accolades for her self-titled album in 1989, including Best Contemporary Folk Album, Best Female Pop Vocal Performance, and Best New Artist.
Luke Combs Covered “Fast Car” Before
Luke Combs frequently incorporated a country rendition of “Fast Car” into his live performances before officially releasing a studio version on his 2023 album, Gettin’ Old. The cover retained much of the original lyrics, with only a subtle change in the last refrain. Combs altered “you” to “we” while preserving the line about working “in the market as a checkout girl.”
Combs’ rendition achieved notable success, securing the top spot on Billboard’s Country Airplay chart. Tracy Chapman, the original artist, expressed her surprise at finding her song on the country charts, emphasizing her gratitude for Combs’ success with “Fast Car.” Chapman shared her happiness for Combs and appreciated the newfound support from a fresh audience.
The triumph of Combs’ cover marked a historic moment for Chapman, as she became the first Black woman to reach No. 1 on the Country Airplay chart as a solo writer since its inception in 1990.
Watch their legendary performance in clip below:
