Carla Marina Underrated? Why do you say that? Sure, her heyday was years ago, not recently, but she was and is still listened to and loved by so many. I’m glad you enjoyed her music too.
Fast Car is on her first album titled, "Tracy Chapman." It went mult-platinum worldwide. She was nominated for six Grammy Awards and has won four Grammys total. She won Best Female Perfomance (Fast Car) and Best New Artist.
This song is so hard to listen to because it hits me so hard when I first heard it in the eighties. I'm a white boy that grew up in a trailer park and both my parents had all kinds of problems I just wanted to get out and escape the pain I was living through. Tracy is an amazing folk singer that understands the human condition, and this song really helped me put things in perspective, regardless of race.
@@happycamper7479 Thank you for replying. I feel like my initial comment was so clumsy. Just trying to say that anybody who grew up in a crappy situation and wanted to escape can relate to this song. Let's figure out how to relate to one another instead of finding a way to create division amongst ourselves!
When I was a kid in the 90s I used to listen to this song and sing as loud as I could wishing I had a fast car so I could get away. I had been purposely skipping watching this video.I totally understand, Steve. Best wishes!!
Fast Car is the most heartbreaking song I've ever heard. Hopes and dreams shattered by life and reality. This song just shatters me. And, this young man understands the story. Music crosses boundaries and generations.
This song has been bringing tears to my eyes since the first time I ever heard it, when it was new. I actually stopped listening to it years ago, because I didn't want to be sad. But it's good to hear it again.
I am an old white woman from Minneapolis. I started watching you during the George Floyd protests. I have mentioned a few times that I am so excited about your reactions that I really think you are an inspiration and a very good example to all of us about opening our minds to something new. Be safe and keep being you. Hug your Mother, she did a wonderful job.
I'm an old white guy from Chicago. I started watching his channel today and subscribed tonight for the same reason. I like his reactions, and his partners' when they're on camera. Inspirational, as you said. It's the music titles that grabbed my attention, but his reactions that grabbed my interest. BLM
Two joys in life: when a piece of music speaks to your soul; and when you witness another person fall in love with a piece of art that speaks to you, too. This is beautiful.
I love the way this young man looks so pained when he is seriously feeling what he is listening to. His openness and the deepness of his understanding is so beautiful.
@@CharlotteN555 just was thinking that I think that encapsulates the whole meaning of this song how we trap ourselves and become ok with it because it’s not always that easy to get out of it
This young man is wonderful. This entire channel is a joy to watch. What I love most about this channel is watching intergenerational and intercultural exchange and discovery. What these young men bring to their experiences is a complete openness and willingness to explore artistry that is entirely new for them. This one was particularly honest and cathartic, but Tracy Chapman tends to emotionally disarm listeners. After having just discovered this, I've spent a better part of this afternoon watching this channel. Just THANK YOU.
@@elevenbucks5682 No, it came out in 1988. I remember it well - I was 27 and was walking by Musicland in the Merced Mall in California and they had "Fast Car" playing from the new Tracy Chapman album. I stopped in my tracks to listen and was so impressed I walking in and bought it. So yeah, 32 years old.
Went to a 10,000 Maniacs concert and Tracy was the unannounced warm-up act. She walked out with her guitar, sat on a stool and started singing this song. No one knew who she was but everybody there was mesmerized. Within two weeks, this song was EVERYWHERE! She is an amazing talent.
it was the time of chapman, lisa loeb, eddi brickel, kate bush, suzanne vega, alanis morrisette, avril lavigne, tori amos, fiona apple and and and... and today we have to listen to no voice bitches like gaga, swift, grande, gomez or cyrus... what a shame...
@@seelenwinter6662 Don't get me wrong I love all the women from back in the day but we do have amazing female musicians making music. Check out Angel Olsen, Sharon Van Etten, Aldous Harding, Fiona Apple (she's still making amazing music), Cat Power, Julia Jacklin, FKA Twigs, M.I.A, PJ Harvey, Joan as Police Woman, Laura Marling, Erykah Badu, Jill Scott, Janelle Monae and many more that I'm leaving off
I remember seeing her driving in San Francisco in the 90’s. She was in a brand new sl500 Benz. I was a teenager. I remember thinking “good for her” that must be the fast car.
Dana says- That would be a fantastic end to the song's story. The only problem is that this song was *not* self biographical. Tracy didn't grow up in poverty and she attended the prestigious Tufts University. Her achievements are still wonderful, but it's not her in the song.
@@thomasrichards6245 *But its Nice to 'dream' sometimes? Especially now... Like, i 'fancy' this young actor for a while now... Í think he's a Great actor but he also Really reminds me of a guy named **#Kevin** someone i cÁn't 'see' right now*
The older I get, the more this song means. I remember hearing it when it came out in the 90s and I thought it was a good song. Now that I’m over 50 and have life experiences? This song reaches into my soul. When she says we have to leave tonight or live and die this way...
Ok so I'm obsessed with you guys now. My stupid ass sitting here with tears runnin down my face watchin you hear this for the first time. How beautiful.
She got a scholarship to an exclusive boarding school. She had talent and the chaplain got her a guitar. She won the school talent show and kept going. She's incredible.
This song has never left me without tears in my eyes. Seeing someone finding their own personal meaning in it, 30 years later, shows how powerful music can be.
Back in '87 we went to a 10,000 Maniacs show at the Guthrie Theatre. The opening act was a totally unknown artist named Tracy Chapman. This was about, maybe 6 months before her album debuted. It was a moment NONE of us has forgotten. It was unbelievable. Just her and her guitar. It was staggering. We couldn't believe what we were witnessing.
You should see her first live performance. It was '88 at Wembley Stadium for Nelson Mandela's 70th birthday. No official slot. Then Stevie Wonder had an issue so she came on. Just Tracy and a guitar. In front of a crowd of 72,000 people (600,000,000 on tv). The whole crowd fell silent at this previously unheard talent. It was truly something amazing to behold.
On a much smaller scale, she opened for Suzanne Vega in 1983 at Club Casino in NH. Same thing, she came out and no one knew who she was. Could not tell if she was a man or a woman. Just knew she was amazing and the crowd loved her.
The real big kicker of this song is how it's a neat cycle. In the song, she goes from staying with her alcoholic father and looking after him after quitting school, to settling into a relationship with a man who turns out to be an alcoholic - and she ends up saying she'll leave him just like her mother left her dad. Strong stuff.
That's simply the summary of the song.. gives you a unique feeling and speaks alot about the everyday struggle of the regular person who has his or her fate on their hands but doesn't always ends up well enough as they've hoped it would.
Let me tell you, being a kid when this song was an unlikely massive hit was wild. Because you'd be at the supermarket and suddenly they'd play it over the loudspeakers without warning. And I'd think, "Dammit, I can't go on this whole emotional journey right now!!! I just needed to pick out cereal!" 😭
I’m a a 62 year old white lady whom you’ve taught a lot. I love that you like the music of my youth. But you’ve helped me understand your generation too.
A lot of us are talking about being ‘old white people’ from various states. We all found you guys at a time of crisis and shame in America. You two are really doing an amazing job right now. Knowing that you are looking back, discovering amazing old music feels so hopeful to me, and it makes me feel so much more hopeful about generations, races and basically just all of us as people too. One of the comments here was: give your Mom a hug for doing such a good job...give her one for all of us too. We appreciate her! 💟☮️💟☮️💟
It's like you teach a music appreciation class connecting music to life. Your's is the first youtube channel I've subscribed to. I love you and your videos and I'm a middle aged white woman. Thank you for being you you're awesome!
As a former public school teacher, I really appreciate the curiosity and willingness to learn about different types of music, to “think outside the box.” This is my 5th video of yours to view & I am subscribing because I think you’re cool. I was a foreign language teacher (German); I wonder if those of us who are bilingual were to send you our favorite songs (with translations) if you’d play along
That would be awesome, back in the 1990's when I was in HS Frau Hulette did her best to teach me German (can't say I ever wrapped my head around the esset or spelling in German or I'd whip it out and ask you if you knew what the time was and wo wonst du?... screw it, use it or loose it.. . Haha) I'd love to hear and see something like that! Excellent idea Frau Joseph... have a great day Tusch (like I said spelling not so much)
This is probably one of my favorite of your reaction videos. Not only because I love this song, but because you *get it* and I can see that and feel it, while watching you. You’re so positive and so empathetic. I love it! Keep doing what you do!
Ah, you're so young and sweet. When you said don't let nobody break your dreams, I actually started crying. I remember when I had that much hope and life ahead of me. I hope you live all your dreams, young man. 💖
She used to be in the subway stop playing!! I gave her change on my way to work at Algiers a restaurant below the brattle theatre in Harvard square - 1985 - she is and this one of the most amazing songs - She’s still incredible -
So glad you loved this one. Fast Car was one of the most powerful message songs of the 80s/90s. There is such depth to it, and makes so many statements about gender, race, class, and how systems of power impact individual lives. She is liberatory.
This song has always broken my heart. She escapes a family and situation with an alcoholic man, works hard to better her life, only to end up with an alcoholic. Spends her life working hard and dreaming of better, only to wind up back in the same spot.
It's about hope for the future but what happens when you get to the future and you haven't moved but an inch? It's like "What Happens to a Dream Deferred," in the poem "Harlem," by Langston Hughes. But I love that she made the responsibility for making a way went from being "we" to "you."
Tim, your commentary on this song brought me to tears. I have spent YEARS dealing with the type of folks you describe in the business world. You are so wise for your age. This video should be played at every damn corporate conference as a motivational speech. I love this so much. ❤️🤟🏻👏🏻🙏🏻
Sobbing just hearing this song newly again from him. Tracy Chapman's lyrics are poetic and eternal and human. I remember when I first heard in living in NYC. Most humans, in America, can feel this.
I was in tears again, too!! This is such an amazingly POWERFUL!!! song -- and hearing it again -- with someone hearing it for the first time just put me over!! Music is truly one of THE most amazing things human beings can create.
@@sharonhammonds9495 I'm pretty sure Jill S. knows that -- the "him" she was referring to is Tim and his response to the song -- and re-experiencing the song through "him".
I am in my 50s and I heard this song driving home when I was 18 and it is a soul moving song. Still my top 5 and I hope every generation gets to hear this song and message. Enjoy Tracy's message and learn..
I remember when this song came out. We fell in love with Tracy Chapman. Her lyrics and storytelling are so visceral. I’m hooked on this channel. Thanks for sharing your reactions.
It's a Sunday and so sitting here, crafting, going through your catalog. I LOVE you. Tracy's from Boston and use to busk on the STREET. A poet. You picked right up on that. This song was HUGE and then she peaced out of the industry as it's a soul stealer. Keep it up! You were made for this, right now.
This is one of my all time favorite songs. It gets me every time. And when I say "gets me", what I mean is, for example, the other day, I was at a restaurant waiting for someone's order to be ready so that I could deliver it to them. This song came on, and I broke down, right there in the restaurant - I can't help it, every single time I hear this song, it does that to me. Even listening to it while you react to it hasn't stopped my eyes from welling up. This is a very deep song - hopelessness is a very painful place to be, and some will do and try anything to get away from it.
You are a symbol of positivity and love. Your open mindedness is an inspiration. I'm so happy that my son is part of your generation of hope and much-needed change. I'm following and backing you, my son and your generation UP!
"Speaking to Q magazine, Tracy Chapman once said: "It's not really about a car at all. "Basically it's about a relationship that doesn't work out because it's starting from the wrong place." According to Metro Weekly critic Chris Gerard, the song tells a grittily realistic story of a working poor woman trying to escape the cycle of poverty, set to folk rock music." www.smoothradio.com/features/fast-car-tracy-chapman-lyrics-meaning-cover/
Yep. That last verse gets skimmed over a lot and only recently did I realize it’s meaning. Her partner is not matching what she’s bringing to the table. She gives them an ultimatum. Step it up or get to steppin
I have loved this song for a long time, but when I really heard it and understood the lyrics... that's when I REALLY fell in love with it. Just the struggle. And the realization when things don't turn out the way you expect. It's so good.
This song came out when I was in fifth grade and it completely opened my eyes to the real struggles of other human beings. I listened to it over and over again, the whole cassette (because it was like 1989). Thank you for doing this, it felt like the first time listening to it for me again.
HOLY CRAP. I've been halfheartedly singing this song for years and years and years and it's only now that I see how deep this digs into humanity. This is deeply painful. Wow, this song. New respect.
I have felt such an achingly deep love and empathy for her ever since the 80s. I have been feeling so incredibly lonely throughout COVID and being able to feel the love from the twins is the only pure love and joy I've actually felt--enough to believe that maybe out country can pull out of the sick political shite we are currently in. Tracy tells us: people are POOR, people need HELP, they need DREAMS, SUPPORT, and to SHARE THEIR VOICE. This woman is a goddess in my world--just like Joni Mitchell--no different. Pure heart, emotion, and spirit-guided POETRESS. Thank you TWINS. I'm just overwhelmed with emotion with what you've done for me for almost four days straight of listening and watching. God bless you, love you, keep you sending out THE LOVE vibes we ALL NEED. xoxoxoxoxo
@@joneskellerful I'm so sorry for you that you're feeling so lonely. I've been feeling down too. My son just turned 19 and he's on The Autistic Spectrum. He doesn't like to talk to people, and he makes it clear that he hates my guts. He wishes I would move away so just he and his dad would live here. He doesn't get it that I didn't work while he was growing up. It waa nearly impossible to find daycare for him. Especially considering I'd likely have to pay them more than half of what ai made. It's not easy finding a job. Especially when the people you're competing with are in their twenties. Not only that, I don't want to move away and have to live all by myself. 😢 😢 It's been so hard listening to his constant abuse. Every day though is a new day. I keep hoping that tomorrow he'll be nicer to me. I'd say once a month he's nice to me and we can go grocery shopping. That's the only thing he'll leave the house for because of the virus.
@@erinmullen7856 Omg Thanks!! Continue to love and care about people. Every time I have a decision to make I think of the word love and then I decide. Keep putting that energy out there. It spreads. I try and tell him to be nice, but that makes him madder. He only says hurtful and spiteful words. Like shut up stupid b*tch. So disrespectful. 😥 I try to tell him that if he thought happy and peaceful things he would feel better, but it just makes him angry. It goes from calm 2 to a 9 where he wants to throw something or hit. I try so hard every day to tell him that we don't have to fight. That if he would just let it go and stop being angry (and putting that energy out there) We don't have to be mad at each other. But he won't listen and I lose my patience and let it get to me and hurt me. Then my heart starts beating fast and I tell him he's being mean. He's got alot of energy to get rid of. But lately he seems to listen and decides to think about it. He's so logical and he has to figure it out. But if he decides to let it go then he'll say something really beautiful. He just really gets life. If he could just stop coming out swinging every time I want to ask him something. Or just want to talk. Sorry it's so long,
I love watching these guys’ reactions to the songs. The fact that he can feel this song and say it’s deep today, despite being over 30 years old, shows how the human experience and struggles are universal and connect us from generation to generation and all over the world. I love this.
I just found your page like a month or two ago, and I think I requested this song on another video because I hadn’t seen you’d done it already, but man I’m glad I found this. This video really made me tear up. I really do want you to succeed. You are such a light in this world. Keep on doing what your doing. The hustle is working, you’re going to get what you want. Your kind of goodness attracts more goodness.
I don’t know you, but I love you young man- you “feel” through the songs you listen to. This one has always been my favorite, it’s so deep and she makes you feel the desperation and then the hope❤️
Tracy Chapman is brilliant, and this song is one of her best. I love that you actually listen to the lyrics of songs. A great song is one that will make you think and feel. Keep the great songs coming.
It is a real joy for me to see and hear your reaction to this song 🙏🏻 I grew up listening to Tracy Chapman, my mother would play her music often. Tracy’s album Crossroads (1989), has had a big impact on me and my life. Still I play Crossroads whenever I find myself disconnected from my source. Her lyrics are very deep, and her voice is full of humility and wisdom. Tracy performed a few days before I was born and it is no wonder the world I was born into and the strength I was raised to uphold is nothing short of a great responsibility. Tracy’s music is healing, all of her songs from Freedom Now, Bridges, Baby Can I Hold You, Mountains O’ Things, and Why?, to Talkin Bout A Revolution and Fast Car. To say that Tracy helped raise me would be not far from the truth at all.
Tracy doesn't get enough respect. This song has moved me since I was a teen. It's a n amazing blues song. You need to hear her version of the House of the Rising Sun.
Maybe not now, because she hasn't been around much, but I don't know if she hasn't been given enough respect. She's a highly celebrated artist and has been for decades. I'm not sure I've ever met anyone who didn't like her music ( not counting people who've never heard of her). I'd be willing to bet you a virtual blueberry muffin, that if you took to the street(fully masked and keeping proper distance) and asked random people what they thought of her, an overwhelming majority would say they love her music. If not that, you probably have a unanimous consensus. The only downside is that the majority of them would only be familiar with "Fast Car" and "Give Me One Reason". The downside would be for them, having not been exposed to her entire catalogue.
I have watched quite a few of your videos and this one was probably my favorite. Such a pure and honest reaction to this incredible song. It was easy to see how much it spoke to you. Keep up the great work. Your videos are bringing people together and breaking all types of barriers. Just incredible.
I stumbled across you and I have to say as an older person who loves music it brings me joy to see you experience some of my favorite songs for the first time.
This song came out when I was young. I remember seeing the video on MTV. That's how Gen X rolled. I really liked the song since the first time I heard it. It touched something deep inside me.
You guys r a joy to watch so happy that I stumbled across u. U have made me relive my childhood listening to dads music and the 80s stay safe love from Australia x
Tracy Chapman is one of the most underrated singers, she was deep, and her voice like no other...
Carla Marina Underrated? Why do you say that? Sure, her heyday was years ago, not recently, but she was and is still listened to and loved by so many. I’m glad you enjoyed her music too.
Fast Car is on her first album titled, "Tracy Chapman." It went mult-platinum worldwide. She was nominated for six Grammy Awards and has won four Grammys total. She won Best Female Perfomance (Fast Car) and Best New Artist.
Is deep...
She is loved worldwide.
Whaaat?? She was hugely successful.
This song is so hard to listen to because it hits me so hard when I first heard it in the eighties. I'm a white boy that grew up in a trailer park and both my parents had all kinds of problems I just wanted to get out and escape the pain I was living through. Tracy is an amazing folk singer that understands the human condition, and this song really helped me put things in perspective, regardless of race.
Yes! You're right!
@@happycamper7479 Thank you for replying. I feel like my initial comment was so clumsy. Just trying to say that anybody who grew up in a crappy situation and wanted to escape can relate to this song. Let's figure out how to relate to one another instead of finding a way to create division amongst ourselves!
@Steve Ramsey You're right 2 times! Stay strong and true. From the Heart!
When I was a kid in the 90s I used to listen to this song and sing as loud as I could wishing I had a fast car so I could get away. I had been purposely skipping watching this video.I totally understand, Steve. Best wishes!!
I'm a Black girl and I can appreciate all you wrote bro
Fast Car is the most heartbreaking song I've ever heard. Hopes and dreams shattered by life and reality. This song just shatters me. And, this young man understands the story. Music crosses boundaries and generations.
It is a sad song .
Ok..you want a song with a message, “YOUNG, GIFTED, AND BLACK” by Nina Simone (pronounced Si-MOAN)
Fast Car is second in heartbreak only to Behind the wall, the secret song from the same album (Tracy Chapman) ruclips.net/video/huez5QyZ5lI/видео.html
An absolute heartbreak of a song.
This song has been bringing tears to my eyes since the first time I ever heard it, when it was new.
I actually stopped listening to it years ago, because I didn't want to be sad. But it's good to hear it again.
I am an old white woman from Minneapolis. I started watching you during the George Floyd protests. I have mentioned a few times that I am so excited about your reactions that I really think you are an inspiration and a very good example to all of us about opening our minds to something new. Be safe and keep being you. Hug your Mother, she did a wonderful job.
And that is it "opening our minds to something new". We're never too old to learn and grow.
Dora Ricard love u Dora!
I'm an old white guy from Chicago. I started watching his channel today and subscribed tonight for the same reason. I like his reactions, and his partners' when they're on camera. Inspirational, as you said. It's the music titles that grabbed my attention, but his reactions that grabbed my interest. BLM
@@rvliver5725 they're brothers. Their name implies twins - if they are, they're not identical.
TwinsthenewTrend, you have a "mature" people's fan following 😂😂 Who'd of thunk!
Two joys in life: when a piece of music speaks to your soul; and when you witness another person fall in love with a piece of art that speaks to you, too. This is beautiful.
What a comment - Big thumbs up
Yes!!!!!! That song, OMG!!!! But watching him was golden!!!!
like a fast car - I agree
Amen.
Yessssss 🥲
"Sounds like it's gonna be deep"
Oh, honey, you have NO IDEA.
God I hope that he never has to live through the pain in this song.
Haaaaaaaaaaaa love him!!!!! They are doing something amazing!!!!!
#said
seriously still makes me cry
Album is off the chain
I love the way this young man looks so pained when he is seriously feeling what he is listening to. His openness and the deepness of his understanding is so beautiful.
I agree- he gets it!
Ditto. His understanding of music is amazing. I love that he really feels it. Follow your dreams🌈😊
His comment about getting his family out of the ghetto comparison. My heart. ♥
He's a beautiful "old soul." That's what my grandmom would have said about him.
He's honestly made me appreciate more the lyrics of song I've listened to thousands of times.
When this song came out, the world stood still.
FOESHOW
It didn't, but ok, your allowed your opinion.
Yes!!!
I was 14 and living in a group home. This song spoke directly to me.
No lies told!
Deepest lyric ever written: "Leave tonight or live and die this way."
Yeah. It's the 'now or never' decision
Amen!
That or-
“I got no plans, I ain't going nowhere”.
Good choice tho bro
@@CharlotteN555 just was thinking that I think that encapsulates the whole meaning of this song how we trap ourselves and become ok with it because it’s not always that easy to get out of it
@@dcoakley11 Makes sense!
This young man is wonderful. This entire channel is a joy to watch. What I love most about this channel is watching intergenerational and intercultural exchange and discovery. What these young men bring to their experiences is a complete openness and willingness to explore artistry that is entirely new for them. This one was particularly honest and cathartic, but Tracy Chapman tends to emotionally disarm listeners. After having just discovered this, I've spent a better part of this afternoon watching this channel. Just THANK YOU.
AMEN!!!
These kids ARE a great hope for our future!!!
There is hope in the future🙏
Totally agree there are fantastic to de cover this classic music from my era (56)from England all the best🤗
ok English teacher. vocab game on point
Its hard to believe this song 30+ years old. Amazing songwriting, performing and a message that's still current. Timeless classic.
Came out in 2000, so 20 years
@@elevenbucks5682 No, it came out in 1988. I remember it well - I was 27 and was walking by Musicland in the Merced Mall in California and they had "Fast Car" playing from the new Tracy Chapman album. I stopped in my tracks to listen and was so impressed I walking in and bought it. So yeah, 32 years old.
@@jeffmorse645 Looked it up,you are right, just going by memory.
@@elevenbucks5682 Me too and for some reason that one really stuck with me in ridiculous detail! lol
It's hard to believe I'm 50 because I was shouting this song off my porch in Canoga Park, Ca. No lie, I'm still doing it in Texas.
Went to a 10,000 Maniacs concert and Tracy was the unannounced warm-up act. She walked out with her guitar, sat on a stool and started singing this song. No one knew who she was but everybody there was mesmerized. Within two weeks, this song was EVERYWHERE! She is an amazing talent.
Wow, what an amazing surprise!!!! Would have been amazing!!
What year was that? Fast Car came out in 1988 but I feel like it blew up in the 90s. Not sure tho.
this song makes me emotional even after listening to it hundreds of times.
Shedding tears right now. It's such a perfect song.
same
Me too.😢😢
EVERY. TIME. Tracy nailed this song.
Same
Bro this incredible song is so deep. It’s about fighting hopelessness.
it was the time of chapman, lisa loeb, eddi brickel, kate bush, suzanne vega, alanis morrisette, avril lavigne, tori amos, fiona apple and and and... and today we have to listen to no voice bitches like gaga, swift, grande, gomez or cyrus... what a shame...
@@seelenwinter6662 what do you mean by no voice - that she doesn't speak out about injustice? or what?
@@seelenwinter6662 Don't get me wrong I love all the women from back in the day but we do have amazing female musicians making music. Check out Angel Olsen, Sharon Van Etten, Aldous Harding, Fiona Apple (she's still making amazing music), Cat Power, Julia Jacklin, FKA Twigs, M.I.A, PJ Harvey, Joan as Police Woman, Laura Marling, Erykah Badu, Jill Scott, Janelle Monae and many more that I'm leaving off
She's a great lyricist/storyteller. Beautiful song
@Seelenwinter 666 Don’t let Gaga’s hype/showmanship distract you. She’s one of the most talented females out there.
I remember seeing her driving in San Francisco in the 90’s. She was in a brand new sl500 Benz. I was a teenager. I remember thinking “good for her” that must be the fast car.
AWESOME!!!!! That is deep!!!!! Woooo
:-)
That’s cool!
Dana says- That would be a fantastic end to the song's story. The only problem is that this song was *not* self biographical. Tracy didn't grow up in poverty and she attended the prestigious Tufts University. Her achievements are still wonderful, but it's not her in the song.
@@thomasrichards6245 *But its Nice to 'dream' sometimes? Especially now... Like, i 'fancy' this young actor for a while now... Í think he's a Great actor but he also Really reminds me of a guy named **#Kevin** someone i cÁn't 'see' right now*
The older I get, the more this song means. I remember hearing it when it came out in the 90s and I thought it was a good song. Now that I’m over 50 and have life experiences? This song reaches into my soul.
When she says we have to leave tonight or live and die this way...
Yes! I feel the same way. It's gone from a pretty song to one that takes my breath away.
Lea, like you I am in my late 50s and this song is about making choices and living with the consequences and it's never easy.
It came out in the late 1980s - recall I was at university! It was a rallying call for many...
Ritu Chhatwal it may have. I just remember hearing it when I was in nursing school in the early 90s.
Hugh Sealy Yes. It’s just such an amazing song.
Ok so I'm obsessed with you guys now. My stupid ass sitting here with tears runnin down my face watchin you hear this for the first time. How beautiful.
Right there with you
Same!
Im in tears with u rn!
Indeed!
Me too, girl, me tooo!
"I fell in love with this song.."
You're going to fall in love with it deeper and truer as you get older.
100%
truth!
That's so true!
She got a scholarship to an exclusive boarding school. She had talent and the chaplain got her a guitar. She won the school talent show and kept going. She's incredible.
Thanks for posting this! I never knew that and it explains so much. She's amazing.
This song has never left me without tears in my eyes. Seeing someone finding their own personal meaning in it, 30 years later, shows how powerful music can be.
Absolutely!!! Music is the world's universal language that ALL people can understand.
Every. Single. Time.
I never get tired of this song. I’m so glad he got meaning from it.
FOESHOW
Have you listened to The Promise? I cry like a baby every damn time!
Back in '87 we went to a 10,000 Maniacs show at the Guthrie Theatre. The opening act was a totally unknown artist named Tracy Chapman. This was about, maybe 6 months before her album debuted. It was a moment NONE of us has forgotten. It was unbelievable. Just her and her guitar. It was staggering. We couldn't believe what we were witnessing.
That sounds amazing!
You should see her first live performance.
It was '88 at Wembley Stadium for Nelson Mandela's 70th birthday. No official slot. Then Stevie Wonder had an issue so she came on. Just Tracy and a guitar. In front of a crowd of 72,000 people (600,000,000 on tv). The whole crowd fell silent at this previously unheard talent.
It was truly something amazing to behold.
i remember that day. blown away @my parents house! so good!!!!!!!!!!
I was there!
@@jenifusion... I wish I had been.
On a much smaller scale, she opened for Suzanne Vega in 1983 at Club Casino in NH. Same thing, she came out and no one knew who she was. Could not tell if she was a man or a woman. Just knew she was amazing and the crowd loved her.
@@pennymx7829... That must have been sweet!
Listen to Tracy Chapmans "Give me one reason" - such a great song!
That has been my karaoke song for 2 decades. I sound horrible, but the crowd is always happy to hear that song.
Check out Changes
Tracy Chapman can break your whole heart
Oh Bella! Now I have to here that!!!! Thank you!!!
Yes! The best!
Bro you're one of the kindest, nicest RUclipsrs I've ever met. Thank your parents for raising you so well.
Not gon lie, this video straight up made my grown ass cry.
Every fucking time damn near!!!
All the feels
I am moved every time I hear this song. This song reaches me deep down in my core. I have loved it for decades.
Me too!!! Whyyyyyyy 😭 Did not expect that!
Same.
The real big kicker of this song is how it's a neat cycle. In the song, she goes from staying with her alcoholic father and looking after him after quitting school, to settling into a relationship with a man who turns out to be an alcoholic - and she ends up saying she'll leave him just like her mother left her dad. Strong stuff.
Exactly such a sad but powerful song
I don’t think some people actually understand what this song is about
That's simply the summary of the song.. gives you a unique feeling and speaks alot about the everyday struggle of the regular person who has his or her fate on their hands but doesn't always ends up well enough as they've hoped it would.
I have always loved the song but never really understood until now
Let me tell you, being a kid when this song was an unlikely massive hit was wild. Because you'd be at the supermarket and suddenly they'd play it over the loudspeakers without warning. And I'd think, "Dammit, I can't go on this whole emotional journey right now!!! I just needed to pick out cereal!" 😭
Seriously! Or even on the radio! Had me puffy eyed walking into work looking ridiculous!
hahaha soooo true!
This whole album slayed. Tracy Chapman is a legend.
So great, a song with lessons for the ages. Hard for me to listen to. Brings me to tears every time but what a joy to watch him discover it.
Till today. Still slays
I’m a a 62 year old white lady whom you’ve taught a lot. I love that you like the music of my youth. But you’ve helped me understand your generation too.
This is a beautiful thing to share
I feel the same way.
Kid you got alot of heart and wisdom.
Your the real deal.
Glad I found you Sir.
Yes, your church upbringing is showing - how deep and insightful you are.
He has a beautiful soul!
This song is a classic, timeless.
This guy is all in. He speaks such truth. I love everything about him. This is the 2020 content I am here for.
He's great isn't he.
Man.. I love Tracy Chapman, she's beautiful. This song is easily one of my favorites ❤
Also when she changes “we” got to make a decision to later in the song “you” got to make a decision. She was tired. Very powerful song!!
This song punches me in the chest every time. Every single time.
This one and Luca by Suzanne Vega.
Oh yeah ... Luka is a lot like this feeling
Just what I was thinking. Listen to Luca by Vega.
All the feels
A lot of us are talking about being ‘old white people’ from various states. We all found you guys at a time of crisis and shame in America. You two are really doing an amazing job right now. Knowing that you are looking back, discovering amazing old music feels so hopeful to me, and it makes me feel so much more hopeful about generations, races and basically just all of us as people too. One of the comments here was: give your Mom a hug for doing such a good job...give her one for all of us too. We appreciate her! 💟☮️💟☮️💟
Give yourself hugs for choosing to be the amazing men you are.
One of the best songs ever. You can feel her youth, her hope, her optimisim, then her resignation and despair.
This song's vibe reminds me of "Where Have All The Cowboys Gone?" by Paula Cole. That cycle of life and eventual despair.
@@meghanmonroe Alanna Myles "Black Velvet" has that feel for me as well, as does Melissa Ethridge "I'm The Only One."
I'll say this, God can reverse that order :)
It's like you teach a music appreciation class connecting music to life. Your's is the first youtube channel I've subscribed to. I love you and your videos and I'm a middle aged white woman. Thank you for being you you're awesome!
Just found this channel today! Started with Jolene! I LOVE the exploration!!!
Me too
@@jessicamorini7847 Same!
I think the algorithm just picked him up.
Me too!
This song always makes me cry. It's so damn sad and true for the lives of so many women. Tracy Chapman is such a treasure!
As a former public school teacher, I really appreciate the curiosity and willingness to learn about different types of music, to “think outside the box.” This is my 5th video of yours to view & I am subscribing because I think you’re cool. I was a foreign language teacher (German); I wonder if those of us who are bilingual were to send you our favorite songs (with translations) if you’d play along
That would be awesome, back in the 1990's when I was in HS Frau Hulette did her best to teach me German (can't say I ever wrapped my head around the esset or spelling in German or I'd whip it out and ask you if you knew what the time was and wo wonst du?... screw it, use it or loose it.. . Haha) I'd love to hear and see something like that! Excellent idea Frau Joseph... have a great day Tusch (like I said spelling not so much)
Me 2💯💯
@@spthibault only know about 10 German words especially vas is der Vanhoff(?) Train station in case I'd ever get lost in Mainz🙄
More Tracy Chapman please...."Give me one reason"..."Talkin bout a Revolution"
That is my all time favorite song ❤
YES! More Tracy PLEASE!
Yessssss!!!! 💞💞💞 “Talkin about a Revolution” is on my heart in these times
@twinsthenewtrend ^^
Bridget Law that entire album tho
This is one of the greatest songs ever written. A true work of genius. Timeless classic
Shes one of my favorite vocalists. Her voice is just amazing.
Love how this song is so good so many years later that it still connects with you so quickly
She's a genius...
Tracie is a monster. On instruments and vocals. Never sell that short. Also a poet. Hard to find these days
This is probably one of my favorite of your reaction videos. Not only because I love this song, but because you *get it* and I can see that and feel it, while watching you. You’re so positive and so empathetic. I love it! Keep doing what you do!
I'm noticing the the abundant comments who know the true poetess of our time: Tracy Chapman. Tears of joy and complicated emotions here.
One of the most underrated artists! Phenomenal singer/songwriter
Tracy Chapman is one of my favorite singers. Her voice is beautiful.
Ah, you're so young and sweet. When you said don't let nobody break your dreams, I actually started crying. I remember when I had that much hope and life ahead of me. I hope you live all your dreams, young man. 💖
I am obsessed with this song. She is so beautiful and her voice is perfection. I love Tracy Chapman. Pure talent.
She used to be in the subway stop playing!! I gave her change on my way to work at Algiers a restaurant below the brattle theatre in Harvard square - 1985 - she is and this one of the most amazing songs -
She’s still incredible -
So glad you loved this one. Fast Car was one of the most powerful message songs of the 80s/90s. There is such depth to it, and makes so many statements about gender, race, class, and how systems of power impact individual lives. She is liberatory.
❤❤❤
This song has always broken my heart. She escapes a family and situation with an alcoholic man, works hard to better her life, only to end up with an alcoholic. Spends her life working hard and dreaming of better, only to wind up back in the same spot.
Yes. This is not a song about achieving your dreams. It is a song about being trapped even though you tried.
Who knows loads of women throughout the years in that same situation 😩
Yeah, I feel like he missed the point
It's about hope for the future but what happens when you get to the future and you haven't moved but an inch? It's like "What Happens to a Dream Deferred," in the poem "Harlem," by Langston Hughes. But I love that she made the responsibility for making a way went from being "we" to "you."
@@susanhaney3437 he's young. He'll get it.
Tim, your commentary on this song brought me to tears. I have spent YEARS dealing with the type of folks you describe in the business world. You are so wise for your age. This video should be played at every damn corporate conference as a motivational speech. I love this so much. ❤️🤟🏻👏🏻🙏🏻
I can't wait for these kids to really get big. They deserve all the good coming to em.
Sobbing just hearing this song newly again from him. Tracy Chapman's lyrics are poetic and eternal and human. I remember when I first heard in living in NYC. Most humans, in America, can feel this.
The human experience...universal
I was in tears again, too!! This is such an amazingly POWERFUL!!! song -- and hearing it again -- with someone hearing it for the first time just put me over!! Music is truly one of THE most amazing things human beings can create.
Jill S, Tracy Chapman is a woman.
@@sharonhammonds9495 I'm pretty sure Jill S. knows that -- the "him" she was referring to is Tim and his response to the song -- and re-experiencing the song through "him".
She's a her.
I am in my 50s and I heard this song driving home when I was 18 and it is a soul moving song. Still my top 5 and I hope every generation gets to hear this song and message. Enjoy Tracy's message and learn..
I remember when this song came out. We fell in love with Tracy Chapman. Her lyrics and storytelling are so visceral. I’m hooked on this channel. Thanks for sharing your reactions.
Omgosh me too!!! I'm 61!!! Love these guys!!!!!
How great would that be??? Yes!!!!
Tracy is one of the best musician ever, she's more like a prophet the way her songs have played out over the years.
Breaks my heart every time I hear this song, struggling my whole life to feel belonged and worthy of a life worth living I feel what she saying.
I hope you have found your sense of belonging! God loves you!
Try Sinead O’Connor “Nothing Compares 2 U”. It was written by Prince!
Sinead O'Connor Troy is such a classic.
It’s so good! And talk about powerful. Prince wrote it
YESSSSS!!! THAT IS A GREAT SONG.
That is a phenomenal song, the lyrics are painful but poetic and her voice is transcendent. I’d love to see a reaction to this!
Great suggestion!
It's a Sunday and so sitting here, crafting, going through your catalog. I LOVE you. Tracy's from Boston and use to busk on the STREET. A poet. You picked right up on that. This song was HUGE and then she peaced out of the industry as it's a soul stealer. Keep it up! You were made for this, right now.
This is one of my all time favorite songs. It gets me every time. And when I say "gets me", what I mean is, for example, the other day, I was at a restaurant waiting for someone's order to be ready so that I could deliver it to them. This song came on, and I broke down, right there in the restaurant - I can't help it, every single time I hear this song, it does that to me. Even listening to it while you react to it hasn't stopped my eyes from welling up. This is a very deep song - hopelessness is a very painful place to be, and some will do and try anything to get away from it.
Anna Stetik ...me too
Even your comment about it made me tear up. It's been a pretty hopeless few years and many of us carry that very near the surface.
The worst is when it gets so hopeless that you give up trying to get away from it because there’s no energy left in you.
Me too - tears now...
Anna Stetik Me too.
She used to busk in Harvard Sq. back in the early 80s, her talent was undeniable even then.
Right!
You are a symbol of positivity and love. Your open mindedness is an inspiration. I'm so happy that my son is part of your generation of hope and much-needed change. I'm following and backing you, my son and your generation UP!
Try Tracy Chapman-Talkin’ About a Revolution, you won’t regret it
Yes
Timely.
Great message in that song..
Behind The Wall always makes me CRY. Love that song. Love that album.
chickflikguru yep, that one still gives me chills
"Speaking to Q magazine, Tracy Chapman once said: "It's not really about a car at all.
"Basically it's about a relationship that doesn't work out because it's starting from the wrong place."
According to Metro Weekly critic Chris Gerard, the song tells a grittily realistic story of a working poor woman trying to escape the cycle of poverty, set to folk rock music."
www.smoothradio.com/features/fast-car-tracy-chapman-lyrics-meaning-cover/
Yep. That last verse gets skimmed over a lot and only recently did I realize it’s meaning. Her partner is not matching what she’s bringing to the table. She gives them an ultimatum. Step it up or get to steppin
I have loved this song for a long time, but when I really heard it and understood the lyrics... that's when I REALLY fell in love with it. Just the struggle. And the realization when things don't turn out the way you expect. It's so good.
"is it fast enough we can fly away?" absolutely wrecks me every time I hear it.
This song means a lot to me, but it was like listening to it for the first time again with you!
This song came out when I was in fifth grade and it completely opened my eyes to the real struggles of other human beings. I listened to it over and over again, the whole cassette (because it was like 1989). Thank you for doing this, it felt like the first time listening to it for me again.
One of the best songs ever. This woman's voice is GOLD♥️⚘
Still remember her on the stage with just a chair and her guitar, slaying it.
"Leave tonight or live and die this way" Don't be afraid to take a chance, don't be afraid to dream.!
People are not afraid of dreaming ... they're afraid of DOING!
This part always makes me lose it. 😭
Exactly! ❤️
I can relate. Deep message.
I feel like I've heard this song most of my life but only now paid attention to the lyrics and meaning because of your reaction!
HOLY CRAP. I've been halfheartedly singing this song for years and years and years and it's only now that I see how deep this digs into humanity. This is deeply painful. Wow, this song. New respect.
Nice 💘
Same. Mind blown
I have felt such an achingly deep love and empathy for her ever since the 80s. I have been feeling so incredibly lonely throughout COVID and being able to feel the love from the twins is the only pure love and joy I've actually felt--enough to believe that maybe out country can pull out of the sick political shite we are currently in. Tracy tells us: people are POOR, people need HELP, they need DREAMS, SUPPORT, and to SHARE THEIR VOICE. This woman is a goddess in my world--just like Joni Mitchell--no different. Pure heart, emotion, and spirit-guided POETRESS. Thank you TWINS. I'm just overwhelmed with emotion with what you've done for me for almost four days straight of listening and watching. God bless you, love you, keep you sending out THE LOVE vibes we ALL NEED. xoxoxoxoxo
@@joneskellerful I'm so sorry for you that you're feeling so lonely. I've been feeling down too. My son just turned 19 and he's on The Autistic Spectrum. He doesn't like to talk to people, and he makes it clear that he hates my guts. He wishes I would move away so just he and his dad would live here. He doesn't get it that I didn't work while he was growing up. It waa nearly impossible to find daycare for him. Especially considering I'd likely have to pay them more than half of what ai made. It's not easy finding a job. Especially when the people you're competing with are in their twenties. Not only that, I don't want to move away and have to live all by myself. 😢 😢 It's been so hard listening to his constant abuse. Every day though is a new day. I keep hoping that tomorrow he'll be nicer to me. I'd say once a month he's nice to me and we can go grocery shopping. That's the only thing he'll leave the house for because of the virus.
@@erinmullen7856 Omg Thanks!! Continue to love and care about people. Every time I have a decision to make I think of the word love and then I decide. Keep putting that energy out there. It spreads. I try and tell him to be nice, but that makes him madder. He only says hurtful and spiteful words. Like shut up stupid b*tch. So disrespectful. 😥 I try to tell him that if he thought happy and peaceful things he would feel better, but it just makes him angry. It goes from calm 2 to a 9 where he wants to throw something or hit. I try so hard every day to tell him that we don't have to fight. That if he would just let it go and stop being angry (and putting that energy out there) We don't have to be mad at each other. But he won't listen and I lose my patience and let it get to me and hurt me. Then my heart starts beating fast and I tell him he's being mean. He's got alot of energy to get rid of. But lately he seems to listen and decides to think about it. He's so logical and he has to figure it out. But if he decides to let it go then he'll say something really beautiful. He just really gets life. If he could just stop coming out swinging every time I want to ask him something. Or just want to talk. Sorry it's so long,
Glad you found Tracy,and enjoyed this as much as we did.
I love watching these guys’ reactions to the songs. The fact that he can feel this song and say it’s deep today, despite being over 30 years old, shows how the human experience and struggles are universal and connect us from generation to generation and all over the world. I love this.
I still tear up hearing this song. Damn.
I just found your page like a month or two ago, and I think I requested this song on another video because I hadn’t seen you’d done it already, but man I’m glad I found this. This video really made me tear up. I really do want you to succeed. You are such a light in this world. Keep on doing what your doing. The hustle is working, you’re going to get what you want. Your kind of goodness attracts more goodness.
I get chills from the moment this song starts, every single time.
I did and I did not even understand the lyrics, now I do and just love it even more
Grew up listening Tracy. She’s a true story teller.
I can't listen to this without crying.
I don’t know you, but I love you young man- you “feel” through the songs you listen to. This one has always been my favorite, it’s so deep and she makes you feel the desperation and then the hope❤️
Tracy Chapman is brilliant, and this song is one of her best. I love that you actually listen to the lyrics of songs. A great song is one that will make you think and feel. Keep the great songs coming.
Agreed. The music must be powerful and fitting, but without lyrics that take the listener from point A to point B, no song can be great.
I already loved this song, but you have a way of making me listen again, with fresh ears..and now I love it even more.
Oh, man. This and her “Give Me One Reason” were staples in my house growing up. She makes beautiful music.
It’s about needing to believe even when there is nothing to believe in. Breaking a cycle.
This song - so super powerful. Tracy Chapman. I grew up listening to her. Glad you got to experience her stories.
I first heard this song way back when it first came out in 1988 and have listened to it thousands of times.
It still makes me weep.
It is a real joy for me to see and hear your reaction to this song 🙏🏻 I grew up listening to Tracy Chapman, my mother would play her music often. Tracy’s album Crossroads (1989), has had a big impact on me and my life. Still I play Crossroads whenever I find myself disconnected from my source. Her lyrics are very deep, and her voice is full of humility and wisdom. Tracy performed a few days before I was born and it is no wonder the world I was born into and the strength I was raised to uphold is nothing short of a great responsibility. Tracy’s music is healing, all of her songs from Freedom Now, Bridges, Baby Can I Hold You, Mountains O’ Things, and Why?, to Talkin Bout A Revolution and Fast Car. To say that Tracy helped raise me would be not far from the truth at all.
Tracy doesn't get enough respect. This song has moved me since I was a teen. It's a n amazing blues song. You need to hear her version of the House of the Rising Sun.
Maybe not now, because she hasn't been around much, but I don't know if she hasn't been given enough respect. She's a highly celebrated artist and has been for decades. I'm not sure I've ever met anyone who didn't like her music ( not counting people who've never heard of her). I'd be willing to bet you a virtual blueberry muffin, that if you took to the street(fully masked and keeping proper distance) and asked random people what they thought of her, an overwhelming majority would say they love her music. If not that, you probably have a unanimous consensus. The only downside is that the majority of them would only be familiar with "Fast Car" and "Give Me One Reason". The downside would be for them, having not been exposed to her entire catalogue.
This kid is deep. He's truly an old soul.
This song breaks my heart every time. The struggles of life.
Listen to “Give me one reason” she has such a unique voice!
I have watched quite a few of your videos and this one was probably my favorite. Such a pure and honest reaction to this incredible song. It was easy to see how much it spoke to you. Keep up the great work. Your videos are bringing people together and breaking all types of barriers. Just incredible.
I stumbled across you and I have to say as an older person who loves music it brings me joy to see you experience some of my favorite songs for the first time.
This song came out when I was young. I remember seeing the video on MTV. That's how Gen X rolled.
I really liked the song since the first time I heard it. It touched something deep inside me.
Same here - fellow Gen X’er. 😀
Same here and it hits harder the older you get. I feel like I love and get it more now, than when I was younger.
90's music was great
Absolutely Gen X🤘🏼
Love Tracy Chapman❤️ My late Uncle introduced me to her music
I would love to see Tracy's reaction to his reaction. Can somebody make that happen???
I love how much you care about the stories of people.Had me in tears.
You guys r a joy to watch so happy that I stumbled across u. U have made me relive my childhood listening to dads music and the 80s stay safe love from Australia x