Tracy Chapman Is 1st Black Songwriter to Win CMA Song of the Year

Tracy Chapman Is 1st Black Songwriter to Win CMA Song of the Year

Tracy Chapman Is 1st Black Songwriter , to Win CMA Song of the Year.

The 2023 CMA Awards took place in Nashville on Nov.

8.

The 2023 CMA Awards took place in Nashville on Nov.

8.

Chapman's 35-year-old song, "Fast Car," was recently brought back into the spotlight by Luke Combs, who covered the song.

Chapman's 35-year-old song, "Fast Car," was recently brought back into the spotlight by Luke Combs, who covered the song.

His rendition hit No.

2 on the 'Billboard' Hot 100 over the summer.

The recognition helped Chapman secure the nomination and ultimately win song of the year, 'ET' reports.

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The feat makes her the first Black songwriter to win that award at the CMAs.

Chapman wasn't able to accept her award in person, but Sara Evans shared a statement in her absence.

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I regret not being able to join you all tonight.

It's a genuine honor for my song to receive recognition anew after 35 years since its debut.

, Tracy Chapman, via statement.

Gratitude to the CMAs, and a special thank you to Luke and all the 'Fast Car' fans, Tracy Chapman, via statement.

Combs referred to "Fast Car" as "one of the best songs of all time.".

This song has been a constant throughout my entire life, reminding me of moments with my dad.

It's the song I'll play for my son, and it will undoubtedly be part of my own history.

, Luke Combs, via statement.

To think that it will now be synonymous with me is just insane, considering how much it has meant to me.

So, I just want to say thank you and congratulations to her, Luke Combs, via statement