Celebrities have their own favorite songs and artists. Country music star Luke Combs told Willie Geist on Sunday TODAY that his first favorite tune as "Fast Car" by Tracy Chapman. That would eventually lead to him unexpectedly recording a cover of the wildly successful 1988 classic. Combs' version adds a nice country sheen to what is already a contemporary masterpiece loved by countless fans.
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Combs also ended up singing it on stage at the 2024 Grammys with none other than Chapman herself. When he described that very special moment to Geist, it was like he was transported back in time to that glorious duet he never forgot. It must have been a dream come true for the "Ain't No Love in Oklahoma" singer.
Combs Talked About How His "Fast Car" Cover Came To Be
In their interview, Combs shared with Geist that he was recording his fourth album. He and the musicians had a hour left to spare. They made a snap decision to do "Fast Car." Good move! Combs recalled that his cover gained traction with listeners right off the bat.
"The song was top 10 on radio and we weren't promoting it at all," Combs said, still marveling at the success it had. Then came the miracle. Combs said that the Grammys contacted him and his team asking if he would be open to doing the song with Tracy Chapman at the upcoming Grammy Awards.
Combs, somewhat flabbergasted, said of course. There was just one obstacle. Finding Chapman would be tough. She had deliberately remained out of the public eye for years.
They Got Acquainted on the Phone
Someone who did PR for Luke Combs told him to expect a call from Tracy Chapman at a certain time on a specific day. When his phone rang, he said the Caller ID was "Unknown Caller." He instantly knew who it was, though!
Combs was thrilled. "She was the sweetest, most gracious person on the call and was so appreciative of me doing the song. It was everything a fan could ever want."
Some time elapsed. Then Combs got word that the duet with him and Chapman at the Grammys would definitely happen. Even two years later, Combs is still dazzled. "I didn't think it would be the moment that it was, but I knew it was really special for me." And for everyone else who was lucky enough to watch it too.
