“Fast Car” is a popular song written and performed by Tracy Chapman, an American singer-songwriter. The song was released as the lead single from her self-titled debut album, “Tracy Chapman,” in 1988.
“Fast Car” became one of Chapman’s most successful and well-known songs, receiving critical acclaim and achieving significant commercial success.
Ukulele Tutorial Video
Strumming Pattern
The strum pattern is relatively simple and consists mainly of downstrokes. Here’s a basic strum pattern you can use:
D D D DUDU
In this pattern, “D” represents a downstroke and “U” represents an upstroke.
The pattern consists of four downstrokes followed by a combination of downstrokes and upstrokes (DUDU).
Keep in mind that this is just one possible strum pattern, and you can modify it or experiment with variations to suit your playing style and preference.
Feel free to adjust the strumming pattern as you see fit, as long as it maintains a consistent rhythm and complements the song’s melody and lyrics.
Official Music Video
Learning Tracy Chapman’s “Fast Car” Chords on Ukulele: 30 Questions and Answers
- What are the basic chords needed to play Tracy Chapman’s “Fast Car” on the ukulele?
- The basic chords are C, G, Am, and F.
- How do I play the C chord on the ukulele for this song?
- Place your ring finger on the third fret of the A string.
- What strumming pattern is commonly used for “Fast Car” on the ukulele?
- A common strumming pattern is Down-Down-Up-Up-Down-Up, but you can experiment with variations.
- Are there any variations in the strumming pattern throughout the song?
- The strumming pattern typically remains consistent throughout the song.
- Can I use a capo when playing “Fast Car” on the ukulele?
- You do not need a capo for this song on the ukulele.
- What is the chord progression for the verse of “Fast Car”?
- The verse uses the chord progression C, G, Am, and F.
- How do I play the G chord on the ukulele for this song?
- Place your index finger on the second fret of the third string (C string) and your middle finger on the second fret of the first string (A string).
- What is the bridge chord progression in “Fast Car”?
- The bridge uses the same chord progression as the verse: C, G, Am, and F.
- Are there any barre chords in “Fast Car,” and how do I play them on the ukulele?
- There are no barre chords in this song, making it suitable for beginners.
- What is the key signature of “Fast Car”?
- The song is in the key of C major.
- Can I play “Fast Car” on a soprano ukulele, or is a larger size preferred?
- You can play it on a soprano ukulele, but larger sizes may offer more resonance.
- Is fingerpicking commonly used for this song, or is strumming the primary technique?
- Strumming is the primary technique for this song, but fingerpicking can be incorporated for variation.
- What is the tempo of “Fast Car”?
- The song is played at a moderate tempo of around 78-82 BPM (beats per minute).
- How can I achieve the signature sound of “Fast Car” on the ukulele?
- Focus on clean chord transitions and a gentle, rhythmic strumming style.
- What chord transitions should I focus on to play the song smoothly?
- Pay attention to the changes between C and G, as they occur frequently.
- Are there any chord variations or substitutions I can use to add flavor to my rendition?
- You can experiment with different voicings of the chords and add hammer-ons and pull-offs for variation.
- How can I make my strumming sound more dynamic and expressive in this song?
- Experiment with strumming dynamics, playing softly during verses and more pronounced during choruses.
- What should I do if I have trouble with a specific chord change in the song?
- Isolate the challenging change and practice it slowly until it becomes smoother.
- Can I find ukulele tablature or chord sheets for “Fast Car” online?
- Yes, you can find chord sheets and tabs for the song on various websites and apps dedicated to ukulele resources.
- What other Tracy Chapman songs can I explore after learning “Fast Car” on the ukulele?
- You can try “Talkin’ ’bout a Revolution” and “Give Me One Reason” for more Tracy Chapman classics.
- How important is it to sing along while playing “Fast Car” on the ukulele?
- Singing along can enhance your performance but is not mandatory.
- What are some common mistakes to avoid when playing “Fast Car” on the ukulele?
- Avoid muting the strings unintentionally with your fretting hand and maintain consistent strumming.
- Is it essential to memorize the lyrics while playing “Fast Car”?
- Memorizing the lyrics can help you stay on track, but it’s not mandatory for playing the chords.
- Can I play “Fast Car” on a low G or high G tuned ukulele?
- You can play it on either tuning, but the sound and finger spacing may vary slightly.
- What are some effective practice strategies for mastering “Fast Car” on the ukulele?
- Break the song into sections, practice chord transitions, and use a metronome to work on timing.
- What is the significance of the Am chord in “Fast Car”?
- Am adds emotional depth to the song. To play it, place your middle finger on the second fret of the fourth string (G string).
- What is the mood or emotion I should aim to convey when playing “Fast Car” on the ukulele?
- Strive to capture the song’s introspective and contemplative atmosphere by emphasizing smooth chord transitions and dynamics.
- How can I add my personal touch to the song when playing it on the ukulele?
- Experiment with different strumming patterns, dynamics, and chord embellishments to make the song your own.
- What is the overall feel of “Fast Car,” and how can I capture it in my playing?
- Aim for a gentle, reflective feel in your strumming and chord changes to match the song’s emotional depth.
- Can you recommend any famous ukulele covers or performances of “Fast Car” for inspiration?
- While there may not be many ukulele-specific covers, watching acoustic guitar covers can provide valuable insights for ukulele players.
Song Facts
Here are some interesting facts about Tracy Chapman’s song “Fast Car”:
- Impact and Success: “Fast Car” became Tracy Chapman’s breakthrough hit and remains one of her most popular songs. It reached the top ten in multiple countries and peaked at No. 6 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the United States.
- Grammy Award: The song earned Tracy Chapman a Grammy Award for Best Female Pop Vocal Performance in 1989. This prestigious recognition further propelled her career and solidified her as a talented singer-songwriter.
- Social Commentary: “Fast Car” is known for its poignant lyrics and social commentary. It addresses themes such as poverty, the struggle for a better life, and the challenges faced by working-class individuals.
- Debut Album: The song appears on Tracy Chapman’s self-titled debut album, “Tracy Chapman,” released in 1988. The album was a critical and commercial success, selling millions of copies worldwide and earning Chapman three Grammy Awards.
- Timeless Appeal: “Fast Car” has maintained its popularity and relevance over the years. Its relatable themes and emotional depth have resonated with listeners across generations, making it a timeless classic.
- Cover Versions: Numerous artists have covered “Fast Car” over the years, showcasing its enduring appeal. Notably, a cover by Jonas Blue featuring Dakota reached the Top 10 in various charts, introducing the song to a new generation of listeners.
- Sampled and Referenced: “Fast Car” has been sampled and referenced in various songs by different artists. For instance, in 2016, the rapper Wyclef Jean interpolated the chorus of “Fast Car” in his single “The Ring.”
- Cultural Significance: The song has been hailed for its ability to connect with a wide range of listeners and its portrayal of universal human experiences. It is often regarded as a powerful anthem that transcends genres and generations.
Text Version of Chords
[Intro]
Cmaj7 G Em Dadd11 Cmaj7 G Em Dadd11
Cmaj7 G Em Dadd11 Cmaj7 G
Em Dadd11
[Verse 1]
Cmaj7 G
You got a fast car
Em Dadd11
I want a ticket to anywhere
Cmaj7 G
Maybe we make a deal
Em Dadd11
Maybe together we can get somewhere
Cmaj7 G
Any place is better
Em Dadd11
Starting from zero got nothing to lose
Cmaj7 G
Maybe we'll make something
Em Dadd11
Me, myself I got nothing to prove
Cmaj7 G Em Dadd11 Cmaj7 G Em Dadd11
[Verse 2]
Cmaj7 G
You got a fast car
Em Dadd11
I got a plan to get us out of here
Cmaj7 G
I working at the convenience store
Em Dadd11
Managed to save just a little bit of money
Cmaj7 G
Won't have to drive too far
Em Dadd11
Just 'cross the border and into the city
Cmaj7 G
You and I can both get jobs
Em Dadd11
And finally see what it means to be living
Cmaj7 G Em Dadd11 Cmaj7 G
[Verse 3]
Em Dadd11 Cmaj7 G
You see my old man's got a problem
Em Dadd11
He live with the bottle that's the way it is
Cmaj7 G
He says his body's too old for working
Em Dadd11
His body's too young to look like his
Cmaj7 G
My mama went off and left him
Em Dadd11
She wanted more from life than he could give
Cmaj7 G
I said somebody's got to take care of him
Em Dadd11
So I quit school and that's what I did
Cmaj7 G Em Dadd11 Cmaj7 G Em Dadd11
[Verse 4]
Cmaj7 G
You got a fast car
Em Dadd11
Is it fast enough so we can fly away
Cmaj7 G
We gotta make a decision
Em Dadd11
Leave tonight or live and die this way
Cmaj7 G Em Dadd11 Cmaj7 G
Em Dadd11 C
So remember we were driving, driving in your car
[Chorus]
G
Speed so fast I felt like I was drunk
Em
City lights lay out before us
D
And your arm felt nice wrapped 'round my shoulder
C Em D
I had a feel ing that I belonged
C Em D C D
I had a feeling I could be someone, be someone, be
someone
[Pre-Verse]
Cmaj7 G Em Dadd11 Cmaj7 G Em Dadd11
[Verse 5]
Cmaj7 G
You got a fast car
Em Dadd11
We go cruising to entertain ourselves
Cmaj7 G
You still ain't got a job
Em Dadd11
I work in a market as a checkout girl
Cmaj7 G
I know things will get better
Em Dadd11
You'll find work and I'll get promoted
Cmaj7 G
We'll move out of the shelter
Em Dadd11
Buy a bigger house and live in the suburbs
Cmaj7 G Em Dadd11 Cmaj7 G
Em Dadd11 C
So remember we were driving, driving in your car
[Chorus]
G
Speed so fast I felt like I was drunk
Em
City lights lay out before us
D
And your arm felt nice wrapped 'round my shoulder
C Em D
I had a feel ing that I belonged
C Em D C D
I had a feeling I could be someone, be someone, be
someone
[Pre-Verse]
Cmaj7 G Em Dadd11 Cmaj7 G Em Dadd11
[Verse 6]
Cmaj7 G
You got a fast car
Em Dadd11
I got a job that pays all our bills
Cmaj7 G
You stay out drinking late at the bar
Em Dadd11
See more of your friends than you do of your kids
Cmaj7 G
I'd always hoped for better
Em Dadd11
Thought maybe together you and me would find it
Cmaj7 G
I got no plans I ain't going nowhere
Em Dadd11
So take your fast car and keep on driving
Cmaj7 G Em Dadd11 Cmaj7 G
Em Dadd11 C
I remember we were driving, driving in your car
[Chorus]
G
Speed so fast I felt like I was drunk
Em
City lights lay out before us
D
And your arm felt nice wrapped 'round my shoulder
C Em D
I had a feel ing that I belonged
C Em D C D
I had a feeling I could be someone, be someone, be
someone
[Pre-Verse]
Cmaj7 G Em Dadd11 Cmaj7 G Em Dadd11
[Verse 7]
Cmaj7 G
You got a fast car
Em Dadd11
But is it fast enough so you can fly away
Cmaj7 G
You gotta make a decision
Em Dadd11
Leave tonight or live and die this way
Cmaj7 G Em Dadd11 Cmaj7 G Em Dadd11
Cmaj7 G Em Dadd11 Cmaj7 G
