About this album
Where they were
By the time 'New Beginning' was released in 1995, Tracy Chapman had already achieved significant acclaim with her self-titled debut in 1988 and the follow-up 'Crossroads' in 1995. This album marked a return after a brief hiatus and showcased her evolution as an artist, bridging personal narratives with broader social themes.
Why it matters
'New Beginning' features the hit single 'Give Me One Reason,' which reached number one on the Billboard Hot Adult Contemporary chart and earned Chapman a Grammy Award for Best Female Rock Vocal Performance. The album's blend of folk, rock, and blues elements reinforced Chapman's status as a significant voice in American music during the mid-90s.
Essential tracks
- "New Beginning" — The title track encapsulates themes of hope and renewal, showcasing Chapman's signature lyrical depth and melodic strength.
- "Give Me One Reason" — 'Give Me One Reason' stands out as a powerful blues-infused ballad that became one of her most commercially successful songs, highlighting her vocal prowess.
- "The Rape of the World" — This track confronts environmental issues with raw honesty, reflecting Chapman's commitment to social causes through evocative storytelling.
- "Smoke and Ashes" — 'Smoke and Ashes' features haunting instrumentation that complements its reflective lyrics about loss and longing, showcasing Chapman's emotional range.
Release Date
November 14, 1995
Artist Origin
United States
Tracklist
- 1 Heaven's Here on Earth 5:23
- 2 New Beginning 5:33
- 3 Smoke and Ashes 6:39
- 4 Cold Feet 5:40
- 5 At This Point in My Life 5:09
- 6 The Promise 5:28
- 7 The Rape of the World 7:10
- 8 Tell It Like It Is 6:05
- 9 Give Me One Reason 4:31
- 10 Remember the Tinman 5:45
- 11 I'm Ready 4:56
- 12 Save a Place for Me 1:48
