In a recent feature by Rolling Stone, the detailed account of how Tracy Chapman and Luke Combs came together for their performance at the Grammy Awards was revealed. According to Grammys executive producer Raj Kapoor, securing this collaboration was 'a long process' that required careful planning and coordination.
The idea of a duet featuring Chapman and Combs performing 'Fast Car' first came up in May 2023. Kapoor and Grammys executive producer Patrick Menton reached out to Matthew Rankin, the SVP at Nonesuch Records and a friend of Chapman, through Combs' publicist Carla Sacks. The collaboration was seen as something rare and special, and everyone involved hoped that the performance would exceed expectations.
Connecting with Chapman, who lives a private life in San Francisco, presented its own challenges. Sacks, however, described the process as 'pure magic' as she knew how to reach out to the elusive singer. Being able to establish communication without being a stranger was crucial in making this collaboration possible.
When Grammy producers initially approached Chapman about the performance, they asked Rankin to allow her time to think about it creatively and what it could be. The producers received a positive response in January, which felt like a long-awaited affirmation.
The discussions with Chapman revealed that the performance marked a significant moment of confluence. It occurred 35 years after she first performed 'Fast Car' at the Grammys and followed a tremendously successful year for Combs with his cover of Chapman's song.
Combs' manager, Chris Kappy, emphasized that the country star wanted Chapman to have full creative control over the performance. He wanted her to shine and requested that the collaboration include some of Chapman's longtime friends and original recording musicians for 'Fast Car.' The lineup also featured Combs' bandmates, creating an unforgettable musical ensemble.
Rehearsals were a key aspect of ensuring the performance was perfect. Kapoor emphasized that there was enough time for both artists to come together, explore, and play through the music. While the Grammy Awards showcase various elements such as sets and visuals, this particular performance was primarily focused on the music and the song.
The collaboration between Chapman and Combs marked their first meeting in person, which took place on January 31 at SIR studio in Los Angeles. It was an emotional moment for both artists, as they had the chance to rehearse together and reconnect with bandmates they hadn't seen in years.
The band rehearsed for several hours, diligently honing their performance. Combs took on the original folk version of 'Fast Car' and sang in a lower key to complement Chapman's style. The goal was to honor Chapman as an amazing songwriter and artist, and being on stage alongside her was a momentous opportunity for Combs.
When the two artists were revealed onstage during the Grammy Awards, the audience erupted with cheers, demonstrating the power of this collaboration. Many people in the room were moved to tears, experiencing the depth of emotions evoked by the performance.
Randy Goodman, Chairman and CEO of Sony Music Nashville, described the collaboration as breathtaking and radiating pure happiness from both artists. It was a full-circle moment for Luke Combs and the culmination of an incredible story.
The journey to secure Tracy Chapman and Luke Combs' performance at the Grammy Awards was a testament to the dedication and determination of the Grammy producers, the artists involved, and their teams. They successfully brought together two musical forces for a performance that will be remembered as a significant milestone in both artists' careers.
