Tracy Chapman is stepping back into the public eye to mark the long-overdue re-release of her groundbreaking self-titled debut album — 37 years after its original 1988 release.
Known for her soulful storytelling and haunting vocals, the notoriously private singer-songwriter is now speaking out about what this moment means to her.
“The intent was to mark the 35th anniversary of the album’s release, but we ran into a few hiccups and so here it is 37 years later and we’re finally getting it out,” Chapman told NPR, with her trademark humility and candor.
The re-release comes on the heels of renewed attention following country artist Luke Combs’ chart-topping cover of “Fast Car,” the album’s signature track.
Their joint performance at the 2024 Grammy Awards introduced the folk classic to a new generation of fans and brought Chapman back into the cultural spotlight.
Chapman, 59, rarely does interviews, but this time around, she’s using the opportunity to reclaim her voice amid rising public interest.
“This is an opportunity for me to be able to say why I wanted to do this project and what it means to me,” she told the New York Times. “Instead of letting the chatter speak for myself.”
Though she’s kept a low profile over the past few decades, Chapman says she never stopped writing or playing.
“It really is fundamental to who I am, and I think about music all the time,” she said.
The re-release of the album — now available on vinyl — is a tribute not only to Chapman’s timeless artistry but also to her commitment to artist compensation.
“I don’t stream music,” she shared. “I only buy music in physical form. Artists get paid when you actually buy a CD or the vinyl. That’s important to me.”
The singer also reflected on the unexpected crossover success of “Fast Car” in the country genre.
“It’s a pleasant surprise that the song has found this new home,” Chapman said. “I never pay too much attention to genre… I don’t find it relevant or that interesting.”
With her distinctive voice and deep lyrical resonance, Chapman’s debut album, which includes tracks like “Talkin’ ’Bout a Revolution” and “Baby Can I Hold You,” remains a landmark in American music — now poised to inspire a whole new audience.
