Tracy Chapman, who won song of the year at the Country Music Awards on Wednesday, is still making history with her 1988 smash song “Fast Car.”
The category presenter and country music artist Sarah Evans issued a statement on Chapman’s behalf after declaring her as the winner during the show, which was held at Nashville’s Bridgestone Arena.
Sorry I was unable to attend to all of you tonight. After 35 years after its release, it is definitely an honor for my music to get this fresh recognition. Whoa. On behalf of Chapman, Evans remarked, “Thank you to the CMAs and a particular appreciation to Luke (Combs) and all of the fans of “Fast Car.”
Given that “Fast Car” premiered 35 years ago and saw a rebirth in popularity in July with the publication of a rendition of the smash track by country artist Luke Combs, the CMA award is an incredible accomplishment.
Chapman became the first Black woman to top the Country Airplay chart since it began in 1990 when Combs’ version hit the top spot.
The Combs version helped “Fast Car” songwriter Chapman, who wrote the song alone, debut at No. 1 on Billboard’s Country Songwriters list.
“I’m happy for Luke and his success and grateful that new fans have found and embraced ‘Fast Car,’” Chapman said in a statement to Billboard at the time. “I never expected to find myself on the country charts, but I’m honored to be there.”
In addition, Combs won a CMA Award on Wednesday for the single of the year for his rendition of “Fast Car.”
The first single from Chapman’s self-titled debut album, “Fast Car,” was nominated for record and song of the year in 1989 and won her a Grammy for best female pop vocal performance.
That year, she also took home the awards for best modern folk album and best new artist.
Former NFL quarterback Peyton Manning and country music star Luke Bryan presented the CMAs, which aired on ABC on Wednesday.
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