In a surprising and highly anticipated Grammy performance, Tracy Chapman joined forces with Luke Combs, blending the folk singer’s legacy with a country twist on her classic hit “Fast Car.” The duet took place at the 66th Grammy Awards on February 4, decades after the song’s original 1988 release.
Chapman, dressed in black, opened the act with the unmistakable guitar intro to “Fast Car,” eliciting enthusiastic cheers from an audience of famous faces. The pair alternated verses and harmonized during the chorus, culminating in a standing ovation led by celebrities like Oprah and an acknowledgment from host Trevor Noah, who called Chapman a legend.
Combs, whose country rendition of “Fast Car” brought the song back into limelight, earning the No. 1 spot on Billboard Hot Country Songs and winning a CMA Award for Song of the Year, commented on his admiration for Chapman’s artistry. Notably, the song’s resurgence marked the first recognition for a Black female artist in this category.
Before the performance, Combs spoke about Chapman’s legacy. “Tracy Chapman is such an icon, and one of the greatest artists that I think any of us will be along to see,” the country singer said. “It’s a full circle moment for me. Just to be associated with her and any way is super humbling for me.”
Fans remember “Fast Car” for its haunting melody and poignant lyrics depicting struggle and hope — themes that resonate across time. The song has not only charted again in 2023 but has also proven influential enough to be featured on former President Barack Obama’s summer playlist.
While it was known that Combs would perform at the Grammy Awards, the news of Chapman’s presence, revealed later by Variety, made for an unforgettable evening, especially given her absence from the public stage in recent years. Chapman’s history with the Grammys goes back to 1989 when she secured an award for Best Female Pop Vocal Performance for “Fast Car.”
The Grammy stage rekindled the song’s spirit, intertwining two artists from different walks of life through the power of music, and placing Chapman and her timeless work back in the spotlight.