A Timeless Song

Lynn University Students React to the Song “Fast Car”

By Lisset Guillen, Assistant Editor

Recently, iPulse interviewed students on Tracy Chapman’s and Luke Combs’ performance of “Fast Car” at the Grammy’s that aired on Feb. 4, 2024. Students were also asked about the song’s meaning.

“Fast Car” was released by Chapman on Apr. 6, 1988. It has been covered by Luke Combs, Justin Bieber, Passenger and others. Audiences seem to favor Combs’ cover due to nostalgia.

“When I saw Tracy Chapman come on stage, I knew she was going to partner up with Luke Combs,” said Viktoria Hammel, a junior international business major. “I was so happy that Luke Combs was able to share that experience with her.”

Chapman was raised by a single mother. Her mother bought her a ukulele when she was 3 years old which ignited her love for music.

“My mom has stayed by my side when doing things I want to do,” said Hammel. “Even if I mess up or learn, she has allowed me to grow.”

In a 2010 BBC radio interview, Chapman said the song was about her parents trying to improve their lives. Chapman’s mother did not have a high school diploma and her father was trying to build a life he had dreamed of.

“There are so many things that people can do, even today, to see the life they want for themselves,” said Jaclyn Schembri, a senior social entrepreneurship major. “Both of my parents went to college, however, my father ended up funding his business and my mother ended up dropping out for beauty school.”

In the song, the couple wants to leave town to start a better life. This can happen only if they work together.

“It is absolutely important to work hard for your goals,” said Luke McNiff, a senior majoring in education. “The best thing that you want to do is set a goal for yourself and do the best to achieve that goal.”

Lynn students strive for a better life through hard work and dedication, similar to the couple in “Fast Car.”