Tracy Chapman, Tracy Chapman (1988)

When you know, you know. What a unique artist. Contemporary folk with that full voice. It's authentic, it's vulnerable, it's everything I like in music that's not afraid to touch emotional chords.

"Talkin' 'bout a Revolution," "Fast Car": these are songs about people down on their luck struggling toward the American dream. I know Chapman has received accolades, but she deserves more. Not just the hits hold up, but the whole album. There is a whole worldview in this music.

A gal from Ohio, she has longed been involved in the struggle for international human rights and has done her part for various national causes as well. But like all good folk artists, she slays with her axe. Woodie Guthrie and Tracy Chapman are of a piece.

I like this album. God bless Tracy Chapman.