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April 5, 1988 Album: Tracy Chapman

Fast Car

Tracy Chapman

About Fast Car

Fast Car Lyrics

[Verse 1]

You got a fast car

I want a ticket to anywhere

Maybe we make a deal

Maybe together we can get somewhere

Any place is better

Starting from zero, got nothing to lose

Maybe we'll make somethin'

Me, myself, I got nothing to prove

[Verse 2]

You got a fast car

I got a plan to get us outta here

I been working at the convenience store

Managed to save just a little bit of money

Won't have to drive too far

Just across the border and into the city

You and I can both get jobs

Finally see what it means to be living

[Verse 3]

See, my old man's got a problem

He lives with a bottle, that's the way it is

He says his body's too old for workin'

His body's too young to look like his

When mama went off and left him

She wanted more from life than he could give

I said, "Somebody's gotta take care of him"

I quit school and that's what I did

[Pre-Chorus]

You got a fast car

Is it fast enough so we can fly away?

We gotta make a decision

Leave tonight or live and die this way

[Chorus]

So I remember when we were drivin', drivin' in your car

Speed so fast, I felt like I was drunk

City lights lay out before us

And your arm felt nice wrapped 'round my shoulder

And I had a feeling that I belonged

I had a feelin' I could be someone

Be someone, be someone

[Verse 4]

You got a fast car

We go cruisin', entertain ourselves

You still ain't got a job

And I work in a market as a checkout girl

I know things will get better

You'll find work and I'll get promoted

And we'll move out of the shelter

Buy a bigger house and live in the suburbs

[Chorus]

So I remember when we were drivin', drivin' in your car

Speed so fast, I felt like I was drunk

City lights lay out before us

And your arm felt nice wrapped 'round my shoulder

And I had a feeling that I belonged

I had a feelin' I could be someone

Be someone, be someone

[Verse 5]

You got a fast car

I got a job that pays all our bills

You stay out drinkin' late at the bar

See more of your friends than you do of your kids

I'd always hoped for better

Thought maybe together, you and me'd find it

I got no plans, I ain't going nowhere

So take your fast car and keep on drivin'

[Chorus]

So I remember when we were drivin', drivin' in your car

Speed so fast, I felt like I was drunk

City lights lay out before us

And your arm felt nice wrapped 'round my shoulder

And I had a feeling that I belonged

I had a feelin' I could be someone

Be someone, be someone

[Outro]

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

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Lyric Video of Fast Car by Tracy Chapman

Line-by-Line Breakdown of Fast Car Lyrics

The lyrics chart a journey from hope to disillusionment. Lines like “You got a fast car, I want a ticket to anywhere” reflect a desperate need for change. As the song unfolds, it reveals the cyclical nature of poverty, despite the initial promise of freedom.

Vocal Parts in the Fast Car Lyrics

Chapman’s voice is soft yet deeply emotive, carrying the weight of each lyric.
The minimal arrangement lets the vocal storytelling shine, adding authenticity to every verse.
Her delivery is restrained but powerful, drawing listeners into the narrative.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is “Fast Car” about?

It tells the story of a woman’s desire to escape poverty and build a better life, only to face recurring struggles.

When was “Fast Car” released?

On April 5, 1988, as part of Tracy Chapman’s self-titled debut album.

What genre is “Fast Car”?

It’s primarily folk rock with acoustic influences.

Has “Fast Car” won any awards?

Yes, it earned Tracy Chapman a Grammy Award for Best Female Pop Vocal Performance in 1989.

Who covered “Fast Car” in recent years?

Country artist Luke Combs released a successful cover in 2023, reviving the song for a new generation.

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