The album was, in total, recorded in eight weeks at Powertrax, Kershenbaum's Hollywood studio. Interviewed in 2002 by "The Guardian", Kershenbaum stated that a lot of the public wanted "what she had" and said, "And they weren't getting it. She got there at the right moment with stuff that was good." Chapman was also interviewed and talked about the background of the album. She said, "The first record ["Tracy Chapman"] is seen as being more social commentary . . . more political. But I think that's just all about perspective."