Tracy Chapman owns the publishing rights for “Fast Car,” meaning she bags a large chunk of the royalty profits. Billboard estimates Luke Combs’ cover of the song resulted in around $500,000 in global publishing royalties between March 17 and June 8, 2023 alone. The bulk of the cash comprises on-demand streaming payments.
In addition, the success of Combs’ cover reignited interest in Chapman’s original version. Streaming and sales of Chapman’s “Fast Car” leapt 44% following Combs’ release, equating to somewhere in the region of $54,000. Elektra Records owns the recorded music rights, but Chapman’s ownership of the publishing rights means she’ll get around $13,000 of the $54,000. All in all, it’s not a bad payday for a track that’s all about living in poverty.
It’s not just Chapman’s bank balance that’s enjoyed a significant boost, though. Her personal currency has also increased, with Google searches of Chapman’s name tripling in the US between March 18 and June 3, 2023. Her star will likely continue to rise when she performs at the Grammys on February 4. Variety reported that Chapman would be making a surprise appearance at the award show, joining Combs on stage to perform “Fast Car” together. It’s a rare occurrence, as Chapman has only made three on-camera performances since 2009. She last performed “Fast Car” at the 31st Grammy Awards ceremony 35 years ago. Chapman swept the board at the 1989 show taking home Best New Artist, Best Pop Vocal Performance, and Best Contemporary Folk Recording.
