Born in Cleveland, Ohio. She studied African culture and anthropology at Tufts University in Boston. Grammy-winning folksinger and songwriter; her hit songs are Fast Car (1988) and Give Me One Reason (1995).

Tracy began her career singing in coffee houses in the Boston area. She attracted wider attention when she performed at Nelson Mandela's 70th birthday party, staged at Wembley Stadium in London and broadcast live around the world. Headliner Stevie Wonder was unable to perform, so her lead-in spot was extended, giving her the chance to make a major impression.