Tracy Chapman - Similar artists & their albums

Corrine Bailey Rae is “similar” to Chapman in the sense that she’s an incredible song writer, and is difficult to place in a musical genre. I thoroughly enjoy her work.

Oh yes, Rhiannon Giddens is superb, great suggestion!

Tracy is terrific, and I think Rhiannon Giddens is every bit as good.

Agreed, the first J. S. Ondara record is stunningly great.  

Have a listen to J.S. Ondara Tales of America very similar vibe for sure.  Good recent album that I learned about on another forum.
I really like the sound on this album as well the double bass and acoustic guitar and vocals come across in a really nice way.

If you haven't heard of Eva Cassidy I'd recommend her.
Songbird
Live At Blues Alley

+1 Joan Armatrading. Her self-titled 3rd is a career highlight(especially the super analog recording on vinyl). Both of her compilations, Track Record and The Very Best of would serve as tremendous introductions.

Maybe a bit of a stretch, but another quite original artist, with great songs, authentic reproduction, upfront vocals and lovely acoustic guitars featured in many songs is Gillian Welch. Time(The Revelator), Soul Journey, and The Harrow & The Harvest are all excellent albums. Cheers,
Spencer

Phoebe Snow was a great artist. Like Tracy, she was unique, not an imitator. 

Phoebe Snow. Despite having more of a fusion jazz style her lyrics are quiet and intricate which demand time from the listener similar to Tracy Chapman.

Maybe you'll get some ideas here - https://www.allmusic.com/artist/tracy-chapman-mn0000016281/related

She’s great. I just introduced her to a 50 something friend. I was surprised he didn't know of her

There are lots of choices—maybe start with Joan Armitrading or Amos Lee’s self titled debuts. Or Ray Lamontagne, or Rose Cousins, or…..

I really have never heard any other artist that I would compare to her. She is a great and unique talent. She seemed to emerge fully mature on her very first recording.