Tracy Chapman - Similar artists & their albums

+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

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

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.

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

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