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Tracy Chapman Original 1988 Vinyl Record
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Tracy Chapman Original 1988 Vinyl Record
**OG PRESSING**
Own the original 1988 pressing of Tracy Chapman’s iconic debut album! Featuring timeless hits like “Fast Car” and “Talkin' 'Bout a Revolution,” this album blends folk and rock with Chapman’s powerful voice and socially conscious lyrics. A must-have for fans of heartfelt music and collectors of classic vinyl.
**LP Video. The video offers an extremely close-up view of the LP condition, filmed just a few inches away. The close-up magnifies any small marks or lines, allowing you to see even minor imperfections that might not be noticeable from a normal viewing distance.
Cover: VG+
Inner Sleeve: VG+
Record: VG+
We grade our records conservatively.
Tracy Chapman’s Self-Titled (1988 Original Vinyl Record) is the groundbreaking debut album by the American singer-songwriter, released on April 5, 1988. This album made an immediate and lasting impact, catapulting Chapman to international fame with its blend of folk, rock, and socially conscious lyrics. Her powerful voice, poignant storytelling, and minimalist acoustic sound were a breath of fresh air during an era dominated by synth-pop and glam rock.
Overview:
- Artist: Tracy Chapman
- Album Title: Tracy Chapman
- Release Date: April 5, 1988
- Label: Elektra Records
- Format: Vinyl
- Genre: Folk, Rock, Singer-Songwriter
Notable Tracks:
- “Fast Car” – The album’s biggest hit and one of Chapman’s signature songs, “Fast Car” tells the story of a young woman seeking escape from poverty and hardship. The song became an anthem of resilience and hope, peaking at No. 6 on the Billboard Hot 100.
- “Talkin' 'Bout a Revolution” – An uplifting call for social change, this track emphasizes the struggles of the working class and the hope for political and social reform.
- “Baby Can I Hold You” – A tender ballad about love and regret, this song showcases Chapman’s emotional depth and vocal vulnerability.
- “Behind the Wall” – A stark, a cappella track dealing with domestic violence, showing Chapman’s ability to tackle difficult social issues with raw honesty.
Musical Style:
Chapman’s debut album features a stripped-down, acoustic sound that draws heavily from folk music traditions, with elements of rock and blues. Her emotive voice and introspective, socially conscious lyrics stand at the heart of the album. Themes of poverty, struggle, hope, and love resonate throughout, giving the album a timeless and universal appeal.
Album Artwork:
The album cover is simple yet striking, featuring a close-up black-and-white portrait of Tracy Chapman. The minimalist design reflects the stripped-back, heartfelt nature of the music within.
Reception & Legacy:
Tracy Chapman was a massive commercial and critical success, reaching No. 1 in the US and several other countries. It sold over 20 million copies worldwide and earned Chapman three Grammy Awards, including Best New Artist. Rolling Stone ranked it as one of the 500 Greatest Albums of All Time, and it is considered one of the most important albums of the late 1980s, notable for its socially conscious message and enduring hits like "Fast Car."
For vinyl collectors, the 1988 original pressing of Tracy Chapman is a cherished item. Its timeless songs and meaningful lyrics make it a must-have for fans of folk and socially aware music, as well as anyone appreciating acoustic-driven albums.