lyrics fast car

“Fast Car” is a song about dreams, struggles, and hope. It tells the story of someone wanting to escape a difficult life. The lyrics describe working hard, facing challenges, and yearning for a better future. There’s a mix of sadness and determination in the words. Overall, it’s a powerful song that connects deeply with listeners’ emotions.

Song credits 

Credit Type

Details

Song Title

Fast Car

Artist

Tracy Chapman

Album

Tracy Chapman

Released

1988

Genre

Folk Rock / Pop

Songwriter

Tracy Chapman

Producer

David Kershenbaum

Label

Elektra Records

Length

4:58

lyrics fast car

Verse 1

You got a fast car

I want a ticket to anywhere

Maybe we make a deal

Maybe together we can get somewhere

Any place is better

Starting from zero got nothing to lose

Maybe we’ll make something

Me, myself, I got nothing to prove

You got a fast car

Verse 2

I got a plan to get us outta here

I been working at the convenience store

Managed to save just a little bit of money

Won’t have to drive too far

Just ‘cross the border and into the city

You and I can both get jobs

And finally see what it means to be living

See, my old man’s got a problem

He live with the bottle, that’s the way it is

He says his body’s too old for working

Verse 3

His body’s too young to look like his

My mama went off and left him

She wanted more from life than he could give

I said somebody’s got to take care of him

So I quit school and that’s what I did

You got a fast car

Is it fast enough so we can fly away?

We gotta make a decision

Leave tonight or live and die this way

Verse 4

So I remember when we were driving, driving in your car

Speed so fast it felt like I was drunk

City lights lay out before us

And your arm felt nice wrapped ’round my shoulder

And I-I had a feeling that I belonged

I-I had a feeling I could be someone, be someone, be someone

You got a fast car

We go cruising, entertain ourselves

You still ain’t got a job

Verse 5

And I work in the market as a checkout girl

I know things will get better

You’ll find work and I’ll get promoted

We’ll move out of the shelter

Buy a bigger house and live in the suburbs

So I remember when we were driving, driving in your car

Speed so fast it felt like I was drunk

City lights lay out before us

And your arm felt nice wrapped ’round my shoulder

And I-I had a feeling that I belonged

Verse 6

I-I had a feeling I could be someone, be someone, be someone

You got a fast car

I got a job that pays all our bills

You stay out drinking late at the bar

See more of your friends than you do of your kids

I’d always hoped for better

Thought maybe together you and me’d find it

I got no plans, I ain’t going nowhere

Take your fast car and keep on driving

So I remember when we were driving, driving in your car

Verse 7

Speed so fast it felt like I was drunk

City lights lay out before us

And your arm felt nice wrapped ’round my shoulder

And I-I had a feeling that I belonged

I-I had a feeling I could be someone, be someone, be someone

You got a fast car

Is it fast enough so you can fly away?

You gotta make a decision

Leave tonight or live and die this way

Frequently Asked Questions 

  What is “Fast Car” about?

 The song tells a story of wanting to escape poverty and build a better life through hope and hard work.

 Who wrote the lyrics of “Fast Car”?

 The lyrics were written by Tracy Chapman.

 Are the lyrics based on real life?

Many listeners believe the song reflects real-life struggles, making it feel deeply personal and authentic.

 Why are the lyrics so emotional?

 They talk about love, disappointment, and dreams that don’t always come true, which many people relate to.

 What does the “fast car” symbolize?

 It symbolizes freedom, escape, and the hope of a better future.

  Why is “Fast Car” still popular today?

 Its themes are timeless, and the lyrics speak to struggles that still exist today.

 Is “Fast Car” considered a storytelling song?

 Yes, it’s widely praised for its clear narrative and powerful storytelling style.

Final Words

The lyrics of “Fast Car” stand out because they are simple, honest, and deeply emotional. They paint a clear picture of dreams, love, and the desire to break free from hardship. Many listeners see their own lives reflected in the words.

Even decades after its release, “Fast Car” remains meaningful. Its message about hope and struggle continues to connect with people around the world, proving how powerful well-written lyrics can be.