Tracy Chapman (born March 30, 1964) was born in Cleveland, Ohio, United States. She is an American singer-songwriter. Her breakthrough occurred in 1988 with the release of her debut album, self-titled as Tracy Chapman, under the Elektra Records label, a move facilitated by Bob Krasnow in 1987. This album, catapulted into success partly by her memorable performance at the Nelson Mandela 70th Birthday Tribute concert, achieved a remarkable 6× Platinum certification by the Recording Industry Association of America.
Chapman's inaugural album garnered widespread acclaim, securing six Grammy Award nominations and winning three prestigious categories: Best New Artist, Best Female Pop Vocal Performance for the iconic "Fast Car," and Best Contemporary Folk Album. Following this triumph, her 1989 release, "Crossroads," earned her another Grammy nomination for Best Contemporary Folk Album, solidifying her position as a musical force.
In 1992, Chapman unveiled "Matters of the Heart," showcasing her evolving artistry. The year 1995 witnessed the global success of her fourth album, "New Beginning," achieving 5× Platinum status in the United States. The album's standout track, "Give Me One Reason," not only dominated charts but also earned Chapman the Grammy Award for Best Rock Song.
Though there was a five-year hiatus before her fifth album, "Telling Stories," emerged in 2000, Chapman continued to captivate audiences. Subsequent releases, "Let It Rain" (2002) and "Where You Live" (2005), upheld her reputation for delivering soul-stirring compositions. Her most recent studio endeavor, "Our Bright Future," was unveiled in 2008.
A testament to her enduring influence, Tracy Chapman's curated compilation album, "Greatest Hits," was released in 2015. Notably, in 2023, she achieved a groundbreaking milestone by becoming the first black woman to secure a country number one with a solo composition. This achievement was complemented by winning the Country Music Association Award for Song of the Year when Luke Combs covered her timeless hit, "Fast Car." Chapman's legacy continues to resonate across genres, exemplifying her status as a trailblazing artist.
