Tracy Chapman Is 1st Black Songwriter , to Win CMA Song of the Year.<br />The 2023 CMA Awards took <br />place in Nashville on Nov. 8.<br />The 2023 CMA Awards took <br />place in Nashville on Nov. 8.<br />Chapman's 35-year-old song, "Fast Car," <br />was recently brought back into the spotlight <br />by Luke Combs, who covered the song.<br />Chapman's 35-year-old song, "Fast Car," <br />was recently brought back into the spotlight <br />by Luke Combs, who covered the song.<br />His rendition hit No. 2 on the <br />'Billboard' Hot 100 over the summer.<br />The recognition helped Chapman <br />secure the nomination and ultimately <br />win song of the year, 'ET' reports. .<br />The feat makes her the first Black songwriter <br />to win that award at the CMAs.<br />Chapman wasn't able to accept her award in person, <br />but Sara Evans shared a statement in her absence. .<br />I regret not being able to join you <br />all tonight. It's a genuine honor <br />for my song to receive recognition <br />anew after 35 years since its debut. , Tracy Chapman, via statement.<br />Gratitude to the CMAs, <br />and a special thank you to <br />Luke and all the 'Fast Car' fans, Tracy Chapman, via statement.<br />Combs referred to "Fast Car" as <br />"one of the best songs of all time.".<br />This song has been a constant <br />throughout my entire life, reminding <br />me of moments with my dad. It's the <br />song I'll play for my son, and it will <br />undoubtedly be part of my own history. , Luke Combs, via statement.<br />To think that it will now be <br />synonymous with me is just insane, <br />considering how much it has meant <br />to me. So, I just want to say thank <br />you and congratulations to her, Luke Combs, via statement
