Her distinct, soulful voice and unique style of guitar playing has always set Tracy Chapman apart from other musicians, and when you hear her voice, anyone even vaguely familiar with her music knows it is without a doubt, Tracy Chapman. Born into a virtually penniless family, 46 years ago she was raised primarily by her mother who recognized in Tracy at a very young age that she had a strong love for music. She bought her- her first instrument at the age of three, which was strangely enough a ukulele. At the age of eight she was said to be inspired by the television show, Hee Haw and began writing songs and playing the guitar. Later while attending an Episcopalian high school, Tracy was accepted into a program called; A Better Chance which would enable her to later attend Wooster School in Connecticut. Eventually Tracy Chapman attended Tuft’s University where she graduated with a BA in anthropology and African studies. During college Tracy Chapman began street performing and playing in coffee houses in and around Cambridge Massachusetts, soon she was discovered by the son of a publishing firm executive who promptly signed her and in 1987 after graduating, would help her land a recording contract with Electra records. She released her first album in 1988, the self titled Critically acclaimed Tracy Chapman, which earned her three Grammy awards including best new artist of 1988.
~Information found through Wikipedia.com~
Background information
Born March 30, 1964 (age 46)
Origin Cleveland, Ohio, U.S. Genres Folk, blues-rock, pop, soul
Occupations Singer-songwriter, musician
Instruments Vocals, guitar, harp, bouzouki, banjo, clarinet, keyboards, organ, percussion, harmonica
Years active 1988–present Labels Elektra Records
Website www.tracychapman.com
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