Singer/songwriter Tracy Chapman [ tickets ], joining the ranks of artists directing their efforts to impact this November's presidential election, embarks on a five-city tour to benefit DrivingVotes.org.

The tour--dubbed "Western Swing: An Evening with Tracy Chapman"-- runs from Sept. 24-Oct. 1, and makes stops in Oregon, Washington, New Mexico and Arizona. The itinerary is shown below.

"The upcoming presidential election is one of the most critical in our nation's history," Chapman said in a statement. "More than ever, every single vote counts, and I want to do whatever I can to urge every American to make their voice heard. ... By doing these small shows in these swing states, I hope to remind each individual in those rooms, that they can take action and make a real difference."

Chapman rose to fame on the strength of her self-titled 1988 debut album, which featured the runaway hit "Fast Car." The set has sold more than 6 million copies in the U.S. to date. She also enjoyed widespread success with her 1996 album, "New Beginning," which spawned the Top 10 single "Give Me One Reason"; the album has shipped five million copies in the U.S., according to the Recording Industry Association of America.

Chapman's most recent album is 2002's "Let it Rain." A limited-edition version of the set that surfaced last year features a bonus CD containing five live tracks.

DrivingVotes.org describes itself as a "grassroots organization committed to reclaiming American democracy by ensuring that Democrats in swing states vote." More information is available at the group's website.