Tracy Chapman

3.5

It’s a wonderful listening experience

Fun mellow deep

"Fast Car" is a perfect song, the kind of bolt of lightning that a songwriter MAYBE gets once in a lifetime, if they're lucky. It's somewhat unfortunate that it came on her first record, because it overshadows everything else here, even though the rest is wonderful in its own right. She got unfairly dismissed as a one-hit wonder (at least until "Give Me One Reason" was a hit a few years later) for making a great first album with a generational pop song on it.

Some deep feeling in these ones, classic songs and the rest of the album which range from great to good. still worth a listen and adding to a playlist.

Not really my genre, but lyrically relevant to this day. I’d say the messages were a little on-the-nose, but I guess that kind of clarity is sometimes important. Either way, not my cup of tea.

Album opens with folk-pop Talkin' Bout a Revolution. Fine if not somewhat boring song -- she's got a solid voice. Didn't know Fast Car was by Tracy Chapman. This song used to be everywhere growing up. Always found the guitar to be incredibly catchy with a chorus that makes anyone think they can sing along. Jam. Not my closest listen, but Across the Lines seems to be a song about racial inequality in America. Pretty, but sad song. Behind the Wall is an incredibly evocative social commentary touching on the fact that police never come fast enough and there is no point to call. Sung completely A Capella, emphasizes the focus on the subject matter at hand. Her voice is like butter... Baby Can I Hold You seems oddly placed following Behind the Wall. I understand you gotta pay the bills, but the juxtaposition is a bit jarring. Back to social commentary, Mountains O' Things is a song about materialism told over a smattering of percussion. Tuned out for a couple songs... For My Lover comes back with a folk-country sounding song. I like the roll of it. All said, I'm glad for this album to have come up on this list. While it isn't something I will come back to for repeated listens, I'm glad for the experience. Tracy Chapman has a beautifully smooth voice and she uses it mostly to speak of social issues. I found the first half of the album to be more interesting than the later and kind of tuned out towards the end. Standouts to me are Fast Car, Behind the Wall, and Fore My Lover. I'm a pretty solid 3 / 5 here.

Great voice, good songs, enjoyable listen. A solid 4.

Only knew Fast Car by her but definitely came out of this album liking more, especially She's got her ticket. She has such an incredibly unique singing voice and the guitar in this album is much better than expected

I had only heard Reel Big Fish's Talkin' 'Bout a Revolution but this one makes me want to run for city council more to start my revolution. Definitely have heard Fast Car. This is a solid tune that's easy to get stuck in your head. I'll probably be humming it later tonight. I do like Across the Lines. The next couple songs were kinda boring. I know the lyrics represent something deeper I'm just working and it's not evoking the emotions I'm sure it's supposed to. Mountains O things is straight out of Tarzan! Overall the lyrics and voice are really strong. Still not my cup o tea but she is certainly powerful.

Real good

5/5

one of the better folks, has like three of four songs I'd re-listen to. Deserved three stars just because I don't really like folk. I prefer my music to not be a snoozefest

Wow never heard any of her stuff before, absolutely amazing stuff

Seminal album that has not lost any relevance or goodness. My first CD purchase in early 90’s in South Africa. I remember the day vividly. Only a handful of albums do that for me. I wish I had seen her in Harare.

Of "Fast Car" fame, Chapman is a talented singer-songwriter as this folk rock debut album shows.

3/5. I enjoyed this album. It showed a lot of Tracy’s range, but suffered at times from the same singing style. Her Pro-Black, Pro-Women stances made this album one of tragedy and I thought those stances helped her dig deeper into her emotions.

All preach, no fun.

beautiful

Am important musician with important messages, but this debut felt a bit flat to me.

Thus is a perfect album. Her voice is unparalleled and her songs her devastating.

Loved it

Very nice

The aural equivalent of a stuffed toy with a hand grenade in it. I'm not sure where I'm going with this, but that sentence seemed to make sense when I wrote it.

This album feels a bit out of place in the timeline, arriving well after the demise of the roots rock of the past decade, but before the hypercommercialism of the 1990s put folk and country back squarely into the mainstream consciousness. I'm surprised it did so well, and very glad for that. Chapman dives into a lot of raw issues, from police neglect and economic segregation to the empty desire of wealth and desiring for a true, genuine life, with a gorgeous voice and subdued but lovely guitar and occasional synthwork (c'mon, it's 1988) to back up her message. Anyone who says Fast Car isn't one of the greatest songs ever made is lying or deluded, by the way. Mountains of 4/5s.

# 25 : I've always liked fast car and I found this a pleasant album with some good listening songs. 256 on Rolling Stone 500 Greatest Albums of All Time!

Lovely voice (whisper it - boring songs)

Tracy Chapman earns her singer/songwriter chops with here. 3.5/5.

Een oudje, waarvan ik dacht dat ik dat plaatje goed kende omdat mijn moeder 'm 'op CD' had, maar het zei me allemaal niet veel en bleef ook niet echt hangen.

Ik heb dit vroeger grijs gedraaid. Vooral de eerste helft is briljant, maar daarna zakt het toch een beetje in.

Dit album heb ik als kind heel vaak gehoord als mijn ouders het draaiden. En dat heeft blijkbaar een zaadje gepland, want elke keer als ik het nu weer hoor dan raakt het me. Ik vind het werkelijk een schitterend album.

Mooi maar niet helemaal mijn geluid. Wat schandalig is, is dat ik ‘Baby can I hold you’ alleen van Boyzone kende.

This was pretty melancholy

The singles are great

Poignant lyrics that paint pictures, swell you up with emotions and sweep you off your feet. Nearly each song has the simple arrangement of Tracy's voice, her guitar and a drummer colored by some percussion. At times a few additional instruments join the formula. It feels barebones yet full and strong.

It’s aiite

I just couldn't get into this one. I remember it being played a lot back when it was first released and, just like then, it never had any impact on me. I'd say that Ed Sheeran has been influenced by this. Not my cup of tea at all.

Excellent songwriting with very political lyrics. Unfortunately many of her themes from 1988 are still relevant today.

The hits are still hits but the rest is simply the rest…

such a beautiful voice and beautifully written songs

As much as I like Tracy Chapman’s singing and excellent songwriting, the album didn’t hold up as well for me as I’d hoped it would.

I’ve been sleeping on this album aside from Fast Car for years. It’s so sad and ponderous, it feels so personal and stripped back.

Just not my style. Definitely has something to say and a lovely voice, but far too laid back in its presentation for my liking.

Fast Car on kyllä hieno kappale. Muuten ihan jees jees jepaa

Wat te jaren tachtig adult contemporary vibes in de productie maar de liedjes zijn geweldig

Tracy was an instant hit when she released this album in 1988, I absolutely loved it then, and still find it a brilliant album to kick back and listen... chilled. Her lyrics and effortless vocals paired with her beautiful acoustic guitar accompaniment, is a real treat for a personal chill out time.

Great album. Her voice and songwriting are so good.

Thought this was gonna be a 5. The singing and songwriting is incredible but I really can’t stand the way the guitars sound(and really most of the instruments) it is a really great record that just kind of ruined it for me

Fast car is a masterpiece. baby can I hold you and Behind the wall are both cool too. Short and sweet.

This album is easy to listen to. The thing is, while it’s politically-conscious, straightforward, and well structured—all generally good traits—it takes zero risks at all. The acoustic backing is the definition of conventional and the writing is straightforward to the extent of superficiality (not that I think it was superficial—Chapman’s singing and songwriting definitely struck me as authentic, just that it really lacks depth). I get it grows out of the pacifist protest song tradition and that that genre almost mandates an easily palatable tone with broad, digestible lyrics but it really doesn’t interest me that much.

Tout est réussi, des textes profonds sans être complexes aux mélodies et arrangements subtils et dépouillés, qui forment des pièces d’une qualité indéniable et indémodable. Plusieurs pièces m’ont émue et fait pleurer

Legit great 4

this one really seems to be more about the lyrical storytelling, but the harmonies, melodies, rhythms, and timbres just don't do it for me. It's a little too homogeneous and simple, seemingly in an effort to put focus on the lyrics.

Good road trip music

First two tracks use the same riff. Somehow insufferably grating for a mellow artist. Vocals have a hidden piercing quality similar to the frequency of the cry of a newborn. Avoid.

Talkin bout a revolution and Fast Car are obviously enormous hits, as a beginner guitarist among the first songs I learned to play. The rest of the record couldn't quite keep up, but it was solid. Why and Across the lines stood out as well.

Ehkä miespuolinen Joni Mitchell mutta tenhoavampi. A-puoli oli tosi hyvä, B-puolelle olisi tarvittu päräytyävämpää vaihtelua. Jännä ääni (Ed Sheeran kuulostaa tältä)

Kun artistin itseilmaisuun sisään rakennettu kornius estää häntä saavuttamasta sitä, mihin hänen lahjansa riittäisivät, ja minkä hän luultavasti ansaitsisi.

Nice and sad.

One of the bright stars - lovely album to be reminded about

day 29. beautiful, soulful, heart breaking in a lot of ways. Tracy Chapman has such a distinctive voice with a quiver that transfers every emotion so cleanly. it's a bit of a tough listen and got a little sleepy for me toward the end, but I enjoyed diving deeper beyond Fast Car (still an all-timer and the best from the album). faves - For You, Across the Lines, Behind the Wall 4/5

Yeah yeah yeah, “Fast Car” aside, a lot of these lyrics are too heart on sleeve and obvious. The political songwriting is so overt Phil Ochs would blush, the playing is expert but standard. One’s more likely to fall asleep than take action after listening to this.

Perfectly serviceable

I didn't expect this album to have such heavy and hard hitting subject matter. I only knew the song Fast Car, and figured it would be a general folk/singer-songwriter album. But it really got into some deep subjects that I really appreciated. Songs themselves were pretty good but not something that I'd really listen to too many times. Still an interesting listen though

Good

This is good. Vocally, instrumentally, socially, spiritually. All deservedly receive high marks.

3/5

Part of the new folk revival of the mid-80s (along with Suzanne Vega, Billy Bragg, and a bunch of lesser known bands like the Chesterfield Kings), Chapman was on of the few artists to attain real stardom. That's not surprising given the quality of the songs and tunes on this, her debut album. Best known for Fast Car and Talkin' About a Revolution, the album is full of songs that are tough, sweet, sad, and insightful, often at the same time. Pretty much every indie folk artist today owes their career to this album which made folk mainstream again.

Well, this was just fantastic.

Relative still, and challenging to the mind, but Tracy's vocals are pleasant and earthy, nonetheless. Wow, phenomenal stuff!

first time listening have heard fast car

Pleasant enough to listen to, good stuff. She has a wonderful voice.

2,5

Great album really enjoyed

Great album, with an iconic song. Good vibes, would definitely listen to again over the summer

Brilliant then, brilliant now and sadly still lyrically relevant. Solid 5/5

It feels to me like these songs have always existed. I don;t listen to them much these days but surely this album deserves a 5/5

mueito bom 8/10

Blues, folk, soul. J'adore, mais on est bcp dans la mélancolie. Me ferait pleurer si j'étais à fleur de peau. Mériterait plus un 3.5, mais je me sens généreux aujourd'hui!

Very good songwriter. I'm impressed with her somewhat unique melodies and cadence.

Classic 5 too

very good. Not my style everyday but great

3.5

She blew me away when she appeared on Live Aid and I bought this album on the Monday. It's still relevant and still a great album.

what do I have to say about this one... It has some really good lyrics and Tracy's got a beautiful voice. I do think that some of the songs can be a bit boring and annoying... All in All 6.5/10 (3/5)

This album was nice, easy listening. She has a soulful, sincere voice. The sound doesn't deviate a whole lot throughout except for that one song with only vocals. Overall, it's not my taste, but also wasn't bad so I'll give it an average rating.

Game changing

As nostalgic as autumn leaves

This was alright. I’m not really into singer-songwriter music, but some songs connected with me.

Was a phenomenon, wasn't it, her sudden rise. Was it about the public's hunger for authenticity or need for quiet, simple and relatable tunes? Today, this feels a bit pallid, a touch tepid. The distance between the grimness of the material and the neutral (almost numb) delivery is quite striking. No doubting that "Fast Car" is a great song. And shame it feels so relevant today.

An album i knew one song on and wound up really enjoying.

If I could give a "music that everyone likes award" it would be this, classics but nothing that is exceptional. It's just good, nothing more, nothing less

Cualquier cosa compuesta y producida en los '90 está bien.

It's nice to be reminded of what great songwriting sounds like.

очень понравился альбом, как-то всё в нем очень хорошо какой-то the weeknd конца 80х под гитарку

приятно вечерком послушать алкоальбом: под бутылочку белого

Очень добрый юноша с гитарой. Ну очень уж прям! Ага, мальчик... Девушка это, емае! Если бы я не заглянул в википедию - так и остался бы в неведении. Сразу скажу - здесь нет никакого сексизма, ну не отличил по голосу, с кем не бывает... Какие же светлые песни, прям не могу. Простые на первый взгляд, с глубокими текстами, если вслушаться. Можно конечно пожаловаться, что звучит всё одинаково, но не в этом суть кажется. Суть просто в том, что это одна из первых исполнительниц поп-блюза, которая стала реально успешной, причём с первой попытки. Самородок. И да, действительно чем-то на Викенда похоже, разве что IDM накинуть какой-нибудь на фон, и синтов бахнуть как у Duran Duran или Daft Punk.

одна из немногих акустик, которой я даже думал ставить 4, ну вкусно. но все таки 3+

Deze plaat heb ik ooit grijsgedraaid (en m'n zus helemaal). Prettige jaren tachtig singersongwriterprotestzangermuziek. Uit de tijd dat sociale kritiek ook nog eens mooi mocht klinken (een stuk beter dan de schraapstem van Bob Dylan dacht ik zo). 'Fast car' is het hoopgevende middelpunt van de plaat. Je gaat als vanzelf naar de teksten luisteren, wat in het Engels wel een prestatie is. Tevens het bewijs dat je ongeacht je eigen huidskleur uiteraard gewoon kunt meevoelen met de lotgevallen van iemand ver weg met misschien een ander uiterlijk, geslacht en sociale achtergrond dan jij. Een les voor al die vervelende hokjesdenkers van tegenwoordig.

Vreemd dat artiesten met veel muzikale creativiteit op de eigen naam als titel uitkomen. Zit de creativiteit dan alleen in het muzikale hokje? Afgaand op de titel draait het nu allemaal om Tracy zelf. Terwijl Tracy best wat te vertellen heeft, zoals in de ijzersterke hit. Normaal zie ik zang vooral als instrument en let ik niet zo op de tekst. Maar zonder enige inspanning komt de tekst van Tracy vrij makkelijk binnen. Dat is een prestatie op zichzelf. Dat gezegd hebbende duren de 36 minuten van Tracy wel erg lang. De eerste twee nummers luister ik met plezier. Maar daarna haak ik toch echt af. 2 sterren voor het album als geheel en een halve bonus-ster voor de eerste twee nummers.

Het is eigenlijk akoestische muziek, maar de jaren 80 hebben een iets te grote invloed qua drums. Het lijkt wel of er gated reverb is toegepast, waardoor die drums een enorme echo krijgen. En zo pleuren ze er wel meer synthesizergeluidjes, panfluiten en irritante tingeltjes in, die totaal onnodig zijn. Het zijn prachtige ingetogen liedjes, waarbij al die jaren 80 poespas eromheen volgens mij alleen maar storend werkt. Hier hadden ze echt een moderne muzikaal uitgeklede remaster van moeten maken: alleen Tracy met haar gitaar. Al vrees ik ook een beetje voor dat het dan iets teveel richting de door mij zo gehate Joni Mitchell gaat, want daar haalt Tracy wel iets teveel de mosterd vandaan soms. Afgezien van die jaren 80 productie, staan de liedjes op zichzelf keurig overeind en heb ik ook dit weer met plezier geluisterd. Ik twijfel tussen 3 of 4 sterren. Nog een keer geluisterd op maandagochtend. Er staan een aantal sterke nummers tussen, maar ook wat mindere. Hoe geengageerd te teksten zijn, heb ik me nooit door laten beinvloeden. Dus ook nu niet, 3+ sterretjes.

I coincidentally finished the Bandsplain podcast on Tracy Chapman a few days ago so I was well-prepared to listen to this album. the first three songs are great. It’s not a style of album I’d listen to often, but there’s no denying Tracy Chapman’s talent.

Genres: Contemporary folk, folk rock, roots rock Formed: 1987? Run time: 11 songs, 36 min, 9 sec It’s a great album with many accolades and awards. Three singles were released from the album: Track 2, "Fast Car" (677M plays on Spotify), Track 1, "Talkin' 'bout a Revolution" (153M plays) and Track 5, "Baby Can I Hold You" (266M plays). All were successful. Every other track on the album has over 9M plays. Tracy sings about life (in general and sometimes specifically black lives). Singer songwriters generally create songs with great stories and meaning and Tracy Chapman is no exception to that rule. I loved the three singles mentioned above. The others are good, but didn’t capture me in the same way. I probably won’t listen to the album again, but I will look for other songs by her. When Spotify finishes an album it plays something equivalent. It chose Neil Young and David Grey, which is quite good company to be in! My Rating: ***

An absolute classic. This album has perfect balance, managing to be both poignant and uplifting. The songwriting is sharp and poetic.Tracy's voice moves exquisitely between warmth and righteousness. The backings are simple but catchy and infectious. Each track has its own clear identity and makes for a powerful whole. I see no faults on this.

Credit has to be given to the songwriting given a lot of it is just a guitar.

A Salt Bae sprinkling of bangers amongst deeper cuts that sounded a bit samey on first listen. It all grew on me with more listens. Well done our lass(?)

One of the best albums ever recorded. Chapman's voice and message are timeless. I can't speak about this album without bringing up Fast Car, a classic anthem about breaking the cycles of abuse. Tracy Chapman is an essential recording that stands for all time.

Not the biggest fan of folk music, but it was pretty good. It deserves another listen when I'm not working, though overcoming my allergic reaction to lyrics is hard.

Two tracks carry this album. Buts it’s not too bad of a coffee house record

Great album. Still holds up

Good lyrics. Not my thing though.

I know and love this album. Tracy’s voice is like silk. Surprisingly mature, thoughtful lyrics. Excellent.

Moving without being smultzy, a wonderful voice.

Enjoyed this more than I expected to. Aside from Fast Car, Behind the Wall and Mountains O' Things really caught my attention and captivated me.

i'll be the first to admit that i generally don't care much for folk music. oh my gosh, tracy chapman! she used her lyrics wisely to tell her stories, to such a powerful impact. the social injustices mentioned are done in such a smart way, too. she asks hard questions, demanding answers, in "why?" or muses about a hypothetical revolution, "talkin' 'bout a revolution." or there's "across the lines" where chapman details how different lives can be as black or white. while those are worthy subjects, her more personal songs dealing with heartbreak are on equal footing. "fast car," rightly a legend, showcases chapman's storytelling skills with snapshots of a life. and her visible pain when singing the chorus of "if not now..."! all this to say her songwriting is clearly the standout of this album. the music itself sometimes wasn't as good on certain songs, like i found myself uninterested, but no matter what, the lyrics brought me back and kept me in it. that's exactly what good folk music should do! i suspect this is an album that becomes better and more appreciated on additional listens, so i'm looking forward to future listens. more than that, i felt like chapman's self titled was an educational listen and a great choice to be among the 1001 albums. for it being folk music in 1988, to be by a black woman, to include such important subjects.

So glad to finally get Tracy Chapman on this project! Her voice is incredibly unique, stunning, and a bit forlorn, and she knows exactly how to use it. This is a beautiful album from vocals to instrumentation. Tracy has always done a great job of communicating meaningful, impactful, socially conscious, and often downright heartbreaking lyrics through song. This album is a shining example of that. The album has a fair bit of diverse sound while still sticking to that contemporary folk rock sound that Chapman is well known for. Arriving in 1988, this album was a bit trendsetting and ahead of its time, as this a few of the singles off of this album not only permeated the radio throughout the 90s but certainly influenced other singer-songwriter women in the Lilith Fair circle.

Det fortjener måske en ekstra stjerne, men jeg hørte det desværre ikke 100% koncentreret.

Exceptional song writing, simple acoustic arrangements, a blend of personal, universal and socially conscious lyrics, and an outstanding voice. A classy, elegant, and beautiful album. Rating: 4.5/5 Playlist track: Fast Car Date listened: 29/04/23

What a unique voice.

Magic

this is a record i'd love to hate but the opening lends itself to a sentimental open-mic atmosphere a little bit and that i must admit gets to me but 'why' is really dumb. that naivety persists throughout the album the sound is like 10/15 years ahead of time though

I liked it :) a lot very sweet and sincere Cute lil album

I remember when this album debuted....I was absolutely floored....such talent, such a message in her song writing.....This. is truly a great classic 5 star album!

❤️ Light 9/10

YES! I love this album so much.

meh to nah

I have listened to this album a lot, but not recently. In the intervening time I listened to a lot of Joni Mitchell and I see a lot of influence this time around. Still great, solid lyrics, singing, emotion with occasional slips into muzak. Harrowing, but enjoyable to revisit.

Rentoa ja helppoa kuunneltavaa. Pari biisiä oli entuudestaan tuttuja korvaan, mutta esittäjästä ei sitten mitään tietoa. Taipuu kolmoseen ja voisipa testata jotain muutakin ko. artisin musaa.

Chilli ja kesäinen. Sopi aurinkoiseen kevätpäivään autoa ajellessa ja sai hyvälle tuulelle

Beautiful vocals, amazing musical talent. It's just so darn sad.

5 stars!

Sorry, Chapman. You are a 2 star album in my heart.

Listened to this for the first time in a long time. I was ready for it to sound dated but it didn't. Nice simple production and great songs. A little preachy (maybe a lot) but the vocal delivery is spooky yet powerful.

Lovely acoustic album of the 1980s. Wasn’t too out there, but did have some original and unique bits to it which make the album very enjoyable. The combination of different genres and less popular instruments really add the creativity of this album. 4/5

Have listened to this album once before I think, but didn't think anything particular of it except of Fast Car which I absolutely love. Coming into it I didn't have any special hopes, but I gotta say I was pleasantly surprised by how good all of it is. The lyricical content is quite serious and I wouldn't consider it especially "happy", but somehow it still gives me some feelgood vibes strange enough. Also good variety in the songs in my opinion, for example completely caught off guard with Mountains O'Things which got some carribean vibe going on. Then a bit of raeggae feeling with She's Got Her Ticket straight after, very nice! Hard choice between 4 and 5, but when listening through the album there is not a single song I don't like, so it will have to be a 5!

Fast car must be one of the biggest hits in the last decades, and rightfully so, it's a great track. Talkin' bout a revolution stood out to me too as great track which I hadn't heard before. The rest kind of blended together. Listening to two albums in one day might have been a bit much as the style is a bit similar to the first album "American Pie" and i got a bit fatigued towards the end. I feel I would've liked it more if circumstances were different. A tentative 3 stars, might have to give this one a second chance.

One of the most universal, yet intimate singer-songwriter records of all time. Several of the all-time greatest singles, and the deep cuts are almost on the same level. A great record.

Fantastic voice and great songs

Inoffensive, mellow but I didn’t want a second listen. I appreciate the musicianship, just a 3*

Very pleasant. Although I have to say that I was expecting to like it more.

A vocal masterpiece! Tracy Chapman's self-titled debut album are song of revolution and songs written from the welfare lines of America. This album radiates hope and sacrifice and perseverance. While very simple from an instrumentation standpoint, Tracy's voice is the driving force on this excellent album. Talkin' About a Revolution, Across the Lines and If Not Now are incredible, while Behind The Wall is completely vocal and beautiful. Fast Car, the best and most long-lasting track, has a Romeo & Juliet feel of escaping poverty and ruin with another person. Major Bruce Spingsteen Born to Run vibes on that track.

Fantastic voice and flattened music. It is not unlikeable, and it's clear that this influenced some modern songs, but it's forgettable.

This album is fantastic all the way through. The fact that she isn’t still a top artist is a tragedy. Great body of song all the way through her career.

adorei o álbum, meu favorito por enquanto. que bela voz. conhecia 2 músicas também, o que já ajudou. não vou ouvir novamente, mas esse entendo e concordo em estar nessa lista.

Her voice has a really significant impact on me. It always has and i dont think any other musician has ever had that effect on me. Incredible artist powerful voice

A storyteller album, more Springsteen than Dylan The stories still seem relevant today, the folkie style aged ok

You forget how good some of her songs are, since Fast Car is so overplayed.

I long for more Fast Car. Unfortunately the rest of the album doesn't fulfill that wish.

What a voice. Having heard so much of this music before, taking the time to really listen to it seemed a little unnecessary, but it actually really revealed how repetitive fast car is. Despite that, this is a solid 5.

Classic alert! Very protest, but listenable. Good mix of stripped back and full pop band. Excellent.

She's a talented songwriter and musician, and should appeal to fans of Tom Petty. However, as much as I appreciate the skill, that style is just not my thing.

This is a very strong album. Poignant, provocative songs delivered with a honesty and authenticity that is very compelling. Very little filler at all. All the songs pack an emotional impact. The playing is also escellent and the arrangements are tasteful and very well produced. Which brings me to the sound quality...absolutely first rate my Candaian pressed original vinyl is outstanding. Clear, deep, balanced sound that never fails to impress. Definitely a strong point of an already strong performance. 4.5 stars

I now feel empathy & compassion.

The good songs are really good. The remaining songs feel heavily dated (like late 80s chipper and wonderful), which is ironic since the message is dark. Tracy's a talented musician and singer, but outside of a few songs, I don't feel like this one holds up too well with time.

no bad songs but no stand out good songs really either. i feel like this would be a good album to play at a dinner party

nice

The album cover matches de music perfectly: - Hey, these are some things I see and hear every day. These are some things I know. I wrote songs about them. Would you listen to them? - Yes Mrs. Chapman. I think i will… A resounding 5 for so much pain and knowledge presented in such a humble, sincere and beautiful way. This is art.

Really good album, fantastic voice

I know and love 'Fast Car', so I was expecting the rest of the album to also impress me. It didn't, it just kind of exists unremarkably and without sparking much controversy. I didn't dislike it, but exceedingly average results is failure in my book.

Let’s start with the fact that Fast Cars was, is, and always will be transcendental. If I’m being purely subjective on the whole album, it’s clear that the reason Tracy is on here is because of her lyrics. They are moving and they themselves are worthy of a 4 or 5. But instrumentally, this is nothing more than trashy acoustic calypso worthy of a 1 or 2. I’ll settle in the middle at a 3.

No thank you

This sounds like something a Feminist Studies professor at Smith College would make.

Fantastically crafted songs through & theough

Not my cup of tea but a decent album. Starts strong but the second half fades. If you're into folk but with a social conscious and not lovey-dovey hippie folk, this is the album for you.

Great album from beginning to end. Would definitely listen to this one again

Great album. Looking to buy soon. Very beautiful voice and rhythmic beats.

I can only assume she's listening to this album for the album art. That's exactly how I felt listening to it. Slightly disappointed and waiting for it to end.

Civil rights, heart, singer songwriter

not may style

All-timer. One of the single greatest and most fully formed debuts ever. Sorely in need of a repress. This album deserves every bit of near-universal acclaim it receives.

''fast cars oon kuullu varmaan mikäs miteä mieltä olet'' jassoo... katotaas... Souiremebervennviiveere draiving, draivinginyurcaer Speedsofastitfeltlikewasdrunk Citylaitssleiautbeforeus Andyourarmfletnocewradrndshldr And aaiaaai had afeeling that I belonged aaaiai had a feeling I could be someone, be someone, be someone vai että sortuja lyrics..... ovi auki naps, vilkutus taakse, ovi kiinni poks ja yksi pykälä albumi alemmas heh... muistetaan sitten ensi kerralla ne yhteiset pelisäännöt for my lover

There are people who listen to music and focus on the lyrics first, and those who focus on the tones and rhythms first. I almost always fall into the latter. Lyrics typically go over my head on a first listen. But not this time. Besides the beauty of Tracy Chapman's music paired with her unique and strong voice, the stories she tells are incredibly compelling that you just have to pay attention. There's no flowery language involved and sometimes her words are very straightforward to the point that it might lose its creativity, but it never does. It's a beautiful debut! Standouts are Fast Car, Behind the Wall, and Mountains O' Things.

Fantastic

Pretty good! Not really my style but I love her voice. Powerful messages throughout. Good stuff for something I wouldn't normally take a chance on.

Relembrou os programas de rádios com as músicas românticas clássicas do final dos anos 80, por motivos de "Fast Car" e "Baby Can I Hold You". Realmente a voz e violão funcionou muito bem ao longo dos 36 minutos.

Amazing (and unfortunate) how relevant and powerful the lyrics still are. Music highlighted them but sounds a bit “of its time”, reason why it lost a star. Can’t help thinking what it would sound like if it was made today.

Tracy Chapman’s wildly powerful and emotionally heavy debut album Fast Car is nothing if not a portrait of a battered and bruised world filled to the brim with injustices and inequalities. and there is not a whiff of idealism to be found — this is stark realism that’s almost painful to listen to as it unfolds: how Chapman writes about violence and pain (“Behind the Wall” is a searing account of domestic violence from a neighbor. there’s nothing colorful hear, only the bleak reality), but also quickly creates room for hope (“Fast Car”, the album’s centerpiece, being a wistful prayer for a more hopeful future that winds up leaving the protagonist right in the damning situation they started in) that’s informed by each situation. she never lets herself fly to high — each time, she counters herself with material truth, and there’s enough of it to bring her back to the ground: hunger and poverty and brutality and and and. but ultimately, Chapman’s optimism wins the battle here: the album’s final three songs reveal her desire to feel love and to find wholeness in the arms of a lover, especially in a world that refuses to grant her the wholeness she deserves. in that way then, Chapman so perfectly paints the human experience in eleven songs and 36 minutes, in indelible ink — and it was her first try too. just all around amazing!

Really powerful album with amazing social themes especially for 1988. My only issue is the acoustic sounds like a synthetic acoustic which I know Tracy can rip any guitar she wants. Just over produced on the guitar sound but lyrically and vocally a masterpiece

I intend on being overly cautious with these initial reviews since this in particular is the very first album I've listened to for this. I imagine I'll get better at articulating my thoughts on these over time. My first impressions were slightly mixed, since I haven't previously listened to much music of this genre nor from this era. I come from an Electronica/IDM background so I tend to have difficulty following and understanding vocals, however Tracy's excellent and clear vocal performances throughout the album made this pretty easy. Fast Cars was a familiar song, and I loved the percussion from Mountain O' Things. On a second listen, I also warmed up to Talkin' Bout a Revolution, which became one of my favorite songs of the album. After processing the LP some more and giving it another listen, I also warmed up to For My Lover. Overall, while I don't see myself returning to this album as I found my enjoyment of most of the tracks to be fairly neutral, it wasn't insulting enough to my ears to warrant a 2. It seems like a perfect introductory album, a very good example of a 3.

folk i actually enjoy 👍🏽 8/10

So much truth. So much clarity. I was so so captivated that I just had to stop and listen.

Fast car is a slap, but the rest of these are not doing it for me. Strong two star.

Fast car banger. Others were decent.

The same 'sound' as Fast Car is heard over the whole album. She has a very nice way of telling stories in songs. Across the lines feels oddly relevant today, which is very sad, knowing this song is today 35 years old and still (police) racism hasn't bettered ... Behind the wall continues this feeling. She transports us to her living situation, if that is her own. It demonstrates how well she can convey a story, I believe it's something she is going through. All in all a nice album but I never really listen a lot to this genre.

Folk. Muy buena voz pero un poco aburrido.

Enjoyable album. Favs: Fast Car (really is one of the greatest songs ever in my opinion), Baby Can I Hold You, For My Lover, Talkin Bout A Revolution Least favs: Behind The Wall

Right at the intersection of Rock, folk and blues.

NOT for me.

What an extraordinary voice. I don’t think I realised how young she was when she recorded this. Fast Car is amazing despite years of overplay on the radio. Talking bout a revolution and Baby can I hold you are also brilliant. The latter is incredible when juxtaposed with Behind the Wall on the album If the rest gets a little samey, it doesn’t diminish how brilliant the high points are of this album

There's something I love about this album in a nostalgic, boring, VH1 sort of way. Fast Car is a great song. I don't think anything else lives up to that one, though. Tracy's voice is perfect for this. I love the production on it. But nothing gets under my skin better than Fast Car.

Good songwriting (if a little worthy), plasticky sub-Gabriel production, a voice I don't particularly care for, a few brave choices with arrangements...that's a three star album, baby!

Quite enjoyed this! Just a nice voice, interesting lyrics and solid melodies.

Yep. Liked this one.

Mooi album. Veel nummers kende ik al, maar ook een paar die ik nog niet kende. "Behind the wall" vond ik erg indrukwekkend.

Fast Car is the standout song, great bit of story telling and an instantly recognisable guitar hook. Bit too far down the complaint rock road for me but can't help admire her commitment.

It can sound rather revolutionary, but can also sound rather dated

A brilliant debut. I saw her on this tour opening for Bob Dylan. She was wonderful, Dylan sucked.

Nice songs

Soulful and pretty, but at times a little boring.

this website keeps giving me albums from 1988 but i'm not complaining considering all of them have been good. i knew just from "fast car" that i was going to enjoy this one and i was correct. i love the songwriting, especially on the first four songs which are fantastic. i do think that the production sounds a bit dated in parts but it's excusable considering that it's not the main focus of the album. an example of this is the instrumental of "mountains o' things" that sounds like the music in rainforest cafe before tracy tree (insane coincidence) starts speaking, even though i still like the song for its lyrics about consumerism. the standout for me is "behind the walls", a song that is completely acapella and it's incredible. i'm glad i checked this album out.

The album is alright and some of the songs are pretty good but I got tired of the singer's voice about 10 minutes in. These overdrawn, shakira-like notes are like nails on a chalkboard after you hear them for the dozenth time

Some people don’t think that politics belongs in music. I’m not one of the people and neither is Tracy Chapman. This album explores themes of economic anxiety, domestic violence, poverty in America, lack of hope, and racism. In short it is an album of the Reagan era laying bare the true impacts of neoliberal economic policy on the people. Her voice seems almost unsure at times, not in what she’s singing, but in a way that mirrors and emphasizes the uncertainty of the times. It’s a very powerful effect. The music itself is folk derives but with some college rock tendencies.

Old people music 4/5

Some good bits. Nice background music

A powerful and somber series of stories, very well preformed

Amazing voice and perfect songs. Great first record. Need to find this on vinyl, an all time classic.

I feel like I could really enjoy this album if I was in a different mood, but as it stands this album fell a bit flat to me. Their sound is way ahead of their time, but it almost so perfectly predicts the 2000s singer-songwriter vibe that the music feels a bit played out (definitely not their fault).

transmasc vibes

Revolutions aren't usually this gentle yet, upon first listen, one eases themselves into the assuring confidence that Tracy Chapman exudes on her first record; a at-times stark, and unadorned collection of songs that sounds as timeless today as it did almost thirty-five years ago. Talkin' Bout a Revolution and Fast Cars still obtain their accessible power while Behind the Wall remains as gripping and saddening as ever. Whatever plaudits that comes this album's way, then and now, is deserving.

I liked it. I had heard a few of them before, but not all of them.

Did not fully listen

En muista oonko koskaan kuunnellut tätä kokonaan, mutta synti ja häpeä, jos en. Upea alusta loppuun.

This one is a classic singer-songwriter album of the 80's. Sadly like many albums of the 1986-1989 period, cheesy 80's production choices have really not aged well. The pacing is also not the best in this album, as the best tracks are all on the 1st side. Fortunately, the immaculate songwriting correct these mistakes pretty well, as Fast Car, Talkin' Bout a Revolution and Baby Can I Hold You have aged like fine wine and are now considered classic tunes. Tracy's voice is also a highlight here and is pretty unique in that style. Love this one. 8,6/10

5/5

Un clásico, no hay mas que decir.

Always like tracy

Soothing 80s soft pop

Not really to my taste, but don't let that put you off!

3.5-4. very solid.

Tough one, wish I could rate 3.5 stars - adore some songs but some not. Unique voice, will return to a few songs not the album.

why, why did Boyzone cover this

Really strong lyrics. Music is raw and powerful. Don't pass the musician on the subway. They could be the next Tracy Chapman.

Stellar singer-songwriter offering. Revolution, Fast Car and For My Lover stand above the rest, though all the songs are well crafted and enjoyable.

Chill folk rock well recorded and sublime. Powerful lyrics and a beautiful unique vocal.

Joan Armatrading, Tracy Chapman, Björk, Stevie Nicks....now we just need a little Phoebe Snow, Janis Joplin, Kate Bush and some Sade.....then I can die

I've only listened to Fast Car before and wasn't surprised that it appears on this album. Tracy got a unique and impactful singing voice that's impossible not to like. Not really my thing but still good.

Really big fan of the sound. Certainly a product of its time and I could dare the same exact album being released today since you do see the same themes in music today.

Great

Bought this album after hearing the song Fast Car. She has such an emotive voice. Honest, raw storytelling.

I really enjoyed this album. I was familiar with the singles but hadn’t really listened to them closely before so was struck by the sadness in Fast Car, for example. It’s a thoughtful, righteously indignant and poignant collection. As others have pointed out, that revolution never came, and the issues of race, poverty and inequality feel, if anything, even more entrenched. So, of its time and yet contemporary, softly spoken and yet angry.

Fast cars is great. Nice mellodies

I appreciate it for what it is; but it’s not my cup of tea.

I remember having a cassette of this and playing it often when it was first out. Time made me remember it as silly or cheesy but listening to Tracy Chapman again after so many years has let me do so with fresh ears and appreciate it on a new level. This album filled will simple, heartfelt folk which is timeless

Col

Yeah, not really my cup of tea.

4/5, solidly good music

Great album, important message

Very earnest singer songwritery from the 80s. Great voice and songs full of protest. Fast Car is great and there a couple of other good songs...there is alas some filler. None of her albums after this debut really made any impact. 3

Amazing collection of songs. I wonder if a fully acoustic album would have been even better.

One of the great 80's albums

It’s a bit samey isn’t it, Tracey? It’s a wee bit boring, isn’t it? Baby Can I Hold You and a couple after low-key slap. Tracey high-key Chap, man.

Stuck this album on in the back while workin and I was not fully attending to it but it's a nice mix of folky stuff with a bit of world sounds peppered in. Really dug the xylos and the winds somewhere in the middle was like Paul Simon bucking Super Mario. Didn't catch lyrics too closely but there was one tune that was a capella and heavy political but it was chilling to hear seeing as this album is from the 80s and black Americans still going through all the same shit. Never listened to it before but I would again

Some bangers some filler. Amazing voice, more political lyrics than I remember, still relevant 35 years on!

Spare and stunning

What an album!! This was a view of America in the 90’s from the view of an Afro-American and it’s hard hitting, truthful and very pictorial. TC has a great voice that makes the album what it is. There isn’t a bad track on this album and it’s one that I happily listen to time and time again. 5/5

Classic album.

Favourite song: Mountains o Things

Wonderful song writing, beautiful voice.

pretty good, not my style though

Like an urban Black Bruce Springsteen

Amazing performer and storyteller

Pretty good enjoyed the whole way through

Best Song: Mountains O' Things. The non-standard instrumentals (triangle and xylophone?) really pair well with the vocals here. Worst Song: For My Lover. A touch too close to a country vibe. Overall: Vocally and lyrically, this album is a stunner. Although I'd heard Fast Cars before, I'd never heard anything else by Chapman. Enough to make me a fan.

I can only say this is not for me. Thought she had a great voice and I enjoyed Talking about a Revolution and Baby Can I hold you. Other than that, thought many of the songs ran together or sounded very similar to each other. There's one song I recognized since they play on the radio, Fast car, but just not a fan..... Can't say I hated, but not a fan I'll give 2.5 since I was surprised by a couple songs mentioned above

4.5 I gotta be honest, when I saw Tracy Chapman pop up I dreaded listening to it. I always assumed she was in the same category as Joni Mitchell, Bob Dylan and other singer-songwriters. My mistake was confusing singer-songwriter with folk music. This album rocked. The subject matter immediately caught my attention with themes of revolution, poverty and yearning. All things which are still prominent today. The whole experience is wrapped in catchy hooks. I really liked this, I’ll listen again and buy on vinyl if I find it.

3.5 I recognized the album cover to this one but knew little else beyond that, so I was pleasantly surprised to learn it’s a strong folk album with socially and politically conscious lyrics that rival even Bob Dylan. In fact, I think the lyrics are really what drive this album, and although dark and depressing at times, they’re always an ashamedly honest reflection of society… and sadly the subject matter still holds up just as much in 2022 as it did in 1988. There were a few lyrics I wanted to highlight here, including verses touching on racial assault in Across the Lines and police ineptitude in Behind the Wall, but instead I’ll urge anyone listening to follow along with the lyrics if possible - your experience will benefit greatly from it. The back half of the album isn’t quite as strong as the first, but overall it’s a well-paced album with a message more powerful than the musical backdrop. To be honest, I don't find most of the songs overly interesting musically, and I likely would have rated the album lower if not for the aforementioned themes, but I really feel like those are what cement this as an important listen, and I’m glad it’s on this list. Favorite songs: Talkin’ Bout a Revolution, Fast Car, Behind the Wall

I thought it was okay, there's no question about the emotion and storytelling in Chapman's lyrics. However, I just couldn't really pay attention. Maybe I was in the wrong mood to truly appreciate it, but I just found it very boring, and that's coming from someone who usually loves folk music. There were a couple of songs that caught my attention, and Fast Car is a classic, but I also come from the generation that probably knows the Jonas Blue cover better, so maybe that's half the reason this didn't properly click with me. Favourite: Mountains O' Things

This is really, really good took me by surprise this one 4/5!

Pretty solid, enjoyed his music for the most part

OK, landmark folk song "Talkin' 'Bout The Revolution", "Fast Cars" and "Mountain O' Things" have aged quite well. Unfortunately, that's not the case with everything else. I agree with the reviewers using the word "beige" and "secretary rock" to explain what this record sounds like to listeners in search of an atmosphere that could be a wee bit more *thrilling* at least. Gosh, the mainstream eighties were so bland sometimes. Don't get me wrong, Tracy Chapman's heart was in the right place when it came to her topical lyrics. The thing is, the execution of these ideas is quite boring at times. And the same can be said about her music. Add the dull production values, and you have a half-baked album. In other words, Tracy deserves to be remembered for those songs I've quoted up there. But you need more than a couple of good tunes to make a fine LP. Number of albums left to review: 733 Number of albums from the list I find relevant enough to be mandatory listens: 132 Albums from the list I *might* include in mine later on: 65 Albums from the list I will certainly *not* include in mine (many others are more important): 71 (including thisbone)

okay, not my favorite.

Another singer/songwriter album, again I found it ok. Fast Car is a great song but the rest of the album meandered along. Probably influential to artists like Lauryn Hill.

Manchmal bisschen schnulzig, aber insgesamt starke Songs mit guter Botschaft.

Huge when it came out, the staple of everyone's college party deep listening in 1988. It sounds a lot less unique today, in the wake of the singer-songwriter revival that was to come. Several of the songs (especially "Baby Can I Hold You?") I'd forgotten were Tracy Chapman and not Joan Armatrading. "Fast Car" hit hard on release but has strained under a million repeats. Most incisive track to me remains "Behind the Wall".

Perhaps she was ahead of her time or it was because she was a black female folksinger, and though she enjoyed early success, she never hit it as big as she should have. Her songs talked about social and political issues, which for the most part were ignored at the time, but her music is being "rediscovered" during these times of turbulence and questioning of American political values. Despite having her first two albums in my record collection (actually my wife's LPs), I never listened to the albums in their entirety. The songs are very socially relevant and Chapman has a very engaging voice that gives the songs urgency. Fast Car and Revolution are the obvious hits on this record and if get beyond those songs, it's a solid album.

Solid tracks, some cohesiveness missing in the overall project. Had not listened to this before and I think it deserves another listen on a later day

Rating: 8/10 Best songs: Takkin’ bout a revolution, Fast car, Across the lines, Baby can I hold you

Did not like Fast Car at the time and ignored the album. Since then I changed my view a bit. It is actually a pretty good album - heavily influenced by Joan Armatrading but sufficiently different. By far her best album.

I don't remember listening to any other songs than the first two tracks, which I believe were singles. Overall, I thought this was a pretty decent singer-songwriter album. I enjoyed her pleasant deep voice and delivery, as well as the tasteful musical accompaniment. However, some of the songs were maybe a little too simple to completely win me over.

Fast Car is a truly touching song and the record as a whole is convincing.

I saw Tracy Chapman when she first came to England, supporting John Martyn at Manchester Picadilly! Not long after, she was one of the biggest draws on the planet. Great stuff. An outstanding 'one album wonder'.

It’s a great great album great to hear it again

Classic

Like the Velvet Underground album, too mellow for me. I like “Fast Car”, but the songs sound a little too similar.

Beautiful album with many memorable songs

S'écoute très bien, mais je m'attendais à plus

This was a really beautiful album. It had lots of great story telling and the messages and stories told were told in a way that was not boring but made me wanna listen more. Tracy u went hard on this ngl.

Nice 80s album, but of nostalgia

Really nice album but mostly average except for a few tracks that really encapsulate and communicate some really complex emotions. Worth just listening to the singles but not necessarily the whole album.

This album is very interesting in their lyrics, an album about social and political critic, no over complicated lyrics, just to the point with some poetic sense. Also the voice of Tracy makes this album even better.

Before today, I only knew the song Fast Car by Tracy Chapman, so I looked forward to listening to more of her catalog of music. This album was phenomenal. The acoustic guitar added an intimate feel to the whole thing, and her voice is beautiful. She sings about hard and heavy topics such as domestic violence (Behind the Wall), racism (Across the Lines), addiction (Fast Car), and poverty/welfare (Talkin' Bout a Revolution, Mountains O' Things). With so many hard topics being covered in one album, it is pretty heavy, and makes you think about hardship, and the shortcomings of society. I thoroughly enjoyed the album, and will definately listen to it again. Favourite songs: Fast Car, Talkin' Bout a Revolution, Across the Lines, Mountains O' Things, Behind the Wall, Why?, For My Lover Least favourite song: if forced to pick, Baby Can I Hold You (amazing song, just didn't move me as much as the rest of the album) 4/5

What a voice. What a unique talent, and no it hasn't aged. Love this. But, what happened to her next??

4/11, 36%

I’ve loved Talking Bout a Revolution and it was great listening to the rest of this!

Really good album, and good lyrics….

En oo koskaan päässyt tähän sisälle vaikka oon koittanut kuunnella useempaan otteeseen. Silti en huonoksi väittäisi! 3/5

Fast Car on tosi kova ja hyviä sanoituksia muutenkin. Musiikillisesti vähän sellaista, että menee toisesta korvasta ulos.

Nautinnollista poppista! 4/5

Hits all the sweet spots for this genre. Listened twice. Consider me a new Tracy Chapman fan!

Pretty voice, soulful and mournful music, but kinda boring and sleep inducing. No higher than a3/5for me, probably a 2/5

One of the best albums ever. Start to finish this is an amazing album. 5/5

Not a big fan of her voice

Like the warm embrace of an old lover! Fantastic album.

Classic album, great listen

Solid singer/songwriter album. The lyrics are focused not only on the personal but on the political too. There's a lot going on here if your willing to scratch the surface. Don't let that that Boyzone cover fool you into thinking this is just a soppy album. It isn't. Best Tracks: Talkin' Bout a Revolution; Fast Car; For My Lover

An emotional album that deserves few good listens Saved songs: She's Got Her Ticket, For My Lover, Behind The Wall

Just a beautifully sung album honestly. It gets a little repetitive for me, but that's about the only thing I can point out. Favorite track: Mountains O'Things

I love Tracy Chapman 10/10

Hon har ju en väldigt speciell röst.

I've never actually seen a picture of Tracy Chapman before, and I've always had it in my head that there was something going on. Like she was a guy (the name is ambiguous enough), a hilariously skinny methed-up white chick, or maybe a retarded mute who couldn't speak but somehow sang like a bird. But no, I was COMPLETELY imagining the something-isn't-quite-right-here vibe. To her credit, Chapman has a nice unique voice and in another context I'd probably be all over it. But the music is super bland. It takes that folk/alt rock sound a la the Gin Blossoms and somehow removes even more oomph. And pretty much nothing can justify the sheer fucking amount of play this album has received for the last 35 years. Sometimes I feel like it's following me around, or there's a committee in charge of making sure it comes on the radio when I walk into bars and cafes. 2/5.