Tracy Chapman becomes first Black woman to win CMA Award 35 years after 'Fast Car' debut

Singer Tracy Chapman became the first Black woman to win a Country Music Association award Wednesday evening when her signature hit, "Fast Car," won Song of the Year 35 years after it was released.

"I'm sorry I couldn't join you all tonight," Chapman, who could not attend the ceremony, wrote in a pre-written note read by presenter Sara Evans. "It is truly an honor for my song to be newly recognized after 35 years of its debut. Thank you to the CMAs and a special thanks to Luke (Combs) and all of the fans of 'Fast Car.'"

"Fast Car," originally released in 1988, was up against fellow Song of the Year nominees including "Heart Like A Truck," "Next Thing You Know," "Tennessee Orange" and "Wait in the Truck." Luke Combs, whose cover of the song helped it climb the charts earlier this year, won Single of the Year for his rendition.

"I never expected to find myself on the country charts, but I'm honored to be there," Chapman told Billboard in July after her song hit No. 1 on Billboard's Country Airplay chart. "I'm happy for Luke and his success and grateful that new fans have found and embraced 'Fast Car.'"

"Tracy Chapman wrote this perfect song that that I first heard with my dad and it has stayed with me since," Combs told Billboard in July.

"Everyone — I mean everyone — across all these stadiums relates to this song and sings along. That's the gift of a supernatural songwriter," Combs said. "The success of my cover is unreal and I think it's so cool that Tracy is getting recognized and has reached new milestones.

Combs' countrified reimagining of the song, which he released on his 2023 album "Gettin' Old," hit number one on Billboard's country airplay chart.

With iconic lyrics that both Chapman and Combs have sung, "Fast Car" has taken on a new life.

In his country grit, Combs sings, "You got a fast car / Is it fast enough so you can fly away? / You gotta make a decision / Leave tonight or live and die this way."

Full winners list:Lainey Wilson, Luke Combs, Chris Stapleton and more

'A supernatural song writer':Luke Combs praises Tracy Chapman as 'Fast Car' tops charts

Contributing: KiMi Robinson, USA TODAY