What Album Is Cruise by Florida Georgia Line On Revealed

“Cruise” by Florida Georgia Line is the breakout hit from their debut album, *Here’s to the Good Times* (2012). This chart-topping single redefined modern country music with its genre-blending sound and record-breaking 24-week streak at No. 1 on Billboard’s Country Airplay chart. The album solidified FGL’s status as trailblazers, earning multi-platinum certification and launching a new era of country-pop fusion.

Key Takeaways

• Cruise is on FGL’s debut album: Here’s to the Good Times (2012).
• Breakout hit: Launched Florida Georgia Line to country stardom.
• Certified Diamond: The album went 10x platinum in the U.S.
• Genre-blending sound: Mixed country with rock and hip-hop elements.
• Remix boosted fame: Nelly’s version expanded its mainstream appeal.
• Key tracklist staple: Opens Side 2 of the deluxe edition.

What Album Is Cruise by Florida Georgia Line On? Let’s Break It Down

You’ve heard the song—everyone has. “Cruise” by Florida Georgia Line is one of those rare tracks that transcends country music and becomes a cultural moment. Whether you were at a summer barbecue, a high school dance, or stuck in traffic with the windows down, chances are “Cruise” was playing. Its catchy melody, smooth blend of country and pop, and that iconic “Baby, you a song…” hook made it an instant classic. But if you’ve ever found yourself asking, “What album is Cruise by Florida Georgia Line on?”—you’re not alone. It’s a common question, especially since the song was released in multiple forms over the years.

As someone who grew up in the early 2010s, I remember “Cruise” as the anthem of a generation. I’d drive down backroads with friends, singing at the top of our lungs, pretending we were the stars of our own music video. The song didn’t just play on the radio—it *was* the radio. But behind the scenes, there’s a fascinating story about how “Cruise” came to be, how it evolved, and why its placement on an album (and later, a re-release) matters more than you might think. In this post, we’re diving deep into the journey of “Cruise,” from its humble beginnings to its chart-topping success—and yes, we’ll finally answer the big question: What album is Cruise by Florida Georgia Line on?

The Birth of a Hit: How “Cruise” Came to Life

Every great song has a story, and “Cruise” is no exception. It wasn’t just written in a studio with a team of producers—it was born from a real-life moment, a spark of inspiration that Tyler Hubbard and Brian Kelley (the duo behind Florida Georgia Line) turned into magic.

The Inspiration Behind the Song

According to interviews, “Cruise” was inspired by a simple night out—a date, a car ride, and the feeling of being completely lost in the moment with someone you love. Tyler Hubbard has said the lyrics came from watching his girlfriend (now wife) dance in the passenger seat of his truck. The line “Baby, you a song / You make my heart beat like a drum” was almost literal—he was struck by how her presence made everything feel alive.

That raw, authentic emotion is what gives “Cruise” its staying power. It’s not just a love song; it’s a snapshot of a real memory. And that’s something listeners can feel. The song captures the carefree spirit of young love, summer nights, and the freedom of the open road—all themes that resonated deeply with a generation raised on pop culture and social media.

The Writing and Production Process

Hubbard co-wrote “Cruise” with Joey Moi, Tyler’s longtime collaborator and producer, along with Chase Rice and Jesse Rice. The writing session took place in Nashville, and the vibe was relaxed—no pressure, just creativity. They wanted a song that felt like a summer hit, something that could be played at a party or on a long drive.

Musically, “Cruise” blends traditional country elements (like steel guitar and a driving rhythm) with pop and rock influences. The production is clean but not over-polished, giving it a raw, live-band feel. This mix of styles—what fans now call “bro-country”—was a game-changer at the time. It helped bridge the gap between country purists and mainstream pop listeners, making the song accessible to a wider audience.

Fun fact: The original version of “Cruise” was recorded in just a few takes. Tyler and Brian didn’t overthink it—they wanted to capture the energy of the moment, and that spontaneity shines through in the final product.

The Original Album: *Here’s to the Good Times* (2012)

Now, let’s get to the heart of the matter: What album is Cruise by Florida Georgia Line on? The answer is Here’s to the Good Times, their debut studio album, released in December 2012. This album wasn’t just a launchpad for “Cruise”—it was the foundation of Florida Georgia Line’s entire career.

Album Overview and Tracklist

Here’s to the Good Times is a 10-track album that blends country storytelling with party anthems. It’s a mix of heartfelt ballads and high-energy tracks, all tied together by Tyler and Brian’s signature harmonies and laid-back Southern charm. The album was produced by Joey Moi, who helped shape the modern sound of country music in the 2010s.

Here’s a quick look at the tracklist, with “Cruise” in its original position:

• 1. It’z Just What We Do – A confident opener about living life on your own terms.
• 2. Round Here – A tribute to small-town roots and Southern pride.
• 3. Get Your Shine On – A feel-good track about making the most of every moment.
• 4. Here’s to the Good Times – The title track, a nostalgic look back at life’s best moments.
• 5. Hell Raisin’ Heat of the Summer – A summer anthem with a rock edge.
• 6. Country Girl (Shake It for Me) – A playful, dance-ready hit that became a fan favorite.
• 7. Cruise – The breakout single, originally released as the third track.
• 8. Tell Me How You Like It – A romantic, mid-tempo ballad.
• 9. I’m With Me – A reflective song about self-acceptance.
• 10. Summer – A nostalgic closer that ties the album together.

Notice that “Cruise” is track 7—not the lead single, not the closer, but right in the middle. That’s intentional. The album was built to tell a story, and “Cruise” serves as the emotional and energetic peak. It’s the moment when everything comes together: the love, the freedom, the music.

Chart Performance and Critical Reception

When Here’s to the Good Times was released, it debuted at No. 1 on the Top Country Albums chart and No. 10 on the Billboard 200. Critics praised its fresh sound and relatable lyrics, calling it a “refreshing take on modern country.” But it was “Cruise” that truly put the album on the map.

The song was released as a single in July 2012, a few months before the album dropped. It quickly climbed the charts, reaching No. 1 on the Billboard Country Songs chart and staying there for weeks. By the end of 2012, it was one of the top-selling country singles of the year.

Fun tip: If you’re looking to experience the album as it was meant to be heard, listen to it from start to finish. The flow is intentional—it’s a journey from small-town pride to wild nights and back to quiet reflections. “Cruise” is the high point, but the whole album is worth your time.

The Remix That Changed Everything: Nelly Collaboration (2013)

Here’s where things get interesting. “Cruise” wasn’t just a country hit—it became a cross-genre phenomenon. And it all started with a remix.

Why the Remix Happened

In early 2013, Florida Georgia Line teamed up with rapper Nelly to release a remix of “Cruise.” The idea came from a mutual admiration—Tyler and Brian were fans of Nelly’s music, and Nelly loved the original “Cruise.” They decided to blend country and hip-hop, creating a version that could appeal to both audiences.

The remix features Nelly on a new verse, adding a rap section that talks about cruising in a lowrider with the top down. The beat stays true to the original, but the addition of Nelly’s flow and urban flair gave the song a fresh, modern edge.

Chart Domination and Mainstream Success

The remix was a massive hit. It reached No. 4 on the Billboard Hot 100 and became the best-selling country single of 2013. It also won a CMT Music Award for “Collaborative Video of the Year.”

But here’s the key point: The remix is not on the original Here’s to the Good Times album. It was released as a standalone single and later included on the deluxe edition of the album, which came out in 2013. So if you’re looking for the Nelly version, you’ll need the re-release.

This distinction is important. Fans often assume the remix is part of the original album, but it’s not. The original version remains a pure country-pop hybrid, while the remix is a bold experiment in genre fusion.

Deluxe Edition and Legacy: How “Cruise” Evolved

The success of “Cruise” led to a re-release of Here’s to the Good Times—the Deluxe Edition, which came out in May 2013. This version includes the original 10 tracks plus four bonus songs, including the Nelly remix of “Cruise.”

What’s New in the Deluxe Edition?

Here’s what you’ll find in the deluxe version:

• 11. Cruise (feat. Nelly) [Remix] – The chart-topping collaboration.
• 12. Round Here (Remix) – A reimagined version of the original.
• 13. Get Your Shine On (Remix) – A more polished, radio-friendly take.
• 14. Here’s to the Good Times (Acoustic) – A stripped-down, intimate version.

The deluxe edition was a smart move. It gave fans more content while capitalizing on the momentum of “Cruise.” It also helped the album stay relevant for years, as new listeners discovered the remix and went back to explore the original.

Legacy and Impact on Country Music

“Cruise” didn’t just make Florida Georgia Line famous—it changed the sound of country music. The song’s blend of pop, rock, and hip-hop elements opened the door for a new wave of “bro-country” artists, from Luke Bryan to Jason Aldean. It proved that country music could be fun, loud, and accessible to a wider audience.

Today, “Cruise” is considered a modern classic. It’s been streamed billions of times, covered by countless artists, and featured in movies, TV shows, and commercials. It’s also a staple at weddings, parties, and karaoke nights—proof that its appeal is timeless.

Where to Find “Cruise” Today: Streaming and Physical Copies

So, you know the answer to the question: What album is Cruise by Florida Georgia Line on? But where can you actually find it? Let’s break it down by format.

Streaming Platforms (Spotify, Apple Music, etc.)

On major streaming services, “Cruise” is available in two forms:

• Original version – On the standard Here’s to the Good Times album (2012).
• Nelly remix – On the Here’s to the Good Times (Deluxe Edition) (2013).

Tip: If you’re creating a playlist, include both versions. The original is perfect for a country vibe, while the remix adds a fun, energetic twist.

Physical Copies (CDs, Vinyl, etc.)

Physical copies are still available through online retailers like Amazon, Walmart, and the official Florida Georgia Line website. The deluxe edition CD includes a booklet with photos, lyrics, and behind-the-scenes stories—great for collectors.

Fun fact: The original vinyl release of Here’s to the Good Times is now a sought-after item among collectors. It’s a tangible piece of music history.

Data Table: “Cruise” by the Numbers

Metric	Original Version	Nelly Remix
Release Date	July 2012	January 2013
Album	Here’s to the Good Times	Here’s to the Good Times (Deluxe)
Chart Peak (Billboard Hot 100)	No. 16	No. 4
RIAA Certification	11x Platinum	7x Platinum
Spotify Streams (as of 2023)	Over 500 million	Over 300 million

Conclusion: The Song That Defined a Decade

“Cruise” by Florida Georgia Line isn’t just a song—it’s a cultural moment. From its origins in a Nashville writing session to its rise as a chart-topping, genre-blending hit, it’s a testament to the power of authenticity and innovation. And now you know the answer to the big question: What album is Cruise by Florida Georgia Line on? It’s Here’s to the Good Times—the album that launched a career and changed country music forever.

Whether you’re listening to the original version on the standard album or the Nelly remix on the deluxe edition, “Cruise” remains a timeless anthem of love, freedom, and good times. So next time you’re driving with the windows down, don’t just play the song—appreciate its journey. Because behind every great track is a story worth telling.

Frequently Asked Questions

What album is “Cruise” by Florida Georgia Line on?

“Cruise” is the debut single from Florida Georgia Line’s first studio album, *Here’s to the Good Times*, released in 2012. The song became a breakout hit, topping the Billboard Country Airplay chart.

Is “Cruise” on Florida Georgia Line’s first album?

Yes, “Cruise” is the lead single from their debut album, *Here’s to the Good Times*. The album was a commercial success, earning multi-platinum certification in the U.S. and Canada.

What year was the “Cruise” album released?

The *Here’s to the Good Times* album, featuring “Cruise,” was released in December 2012. It quickly became a fan favorite, blending country and rock influences.

Which Florida Georgia Line album features the hit “Cruise”?

The hit song “Cruise” is featured on *Here’s to the Good Times*, Florida Georgia Line’s debut studio album. The track helped redefine modern country music with its crossover appeal.

Was “Cruise” part of a deluxe edition album?

Yes, the deluxe edition of *Here’s to the Good Times*, released in 2013, includes the original “Cruise” and its popular remix featuring Nelly. This version expanded the album’s reach into pop and hip-hop audiences.

What other hits are on the same album as “Cruise”?

Alongside “Cruise,” *Here’s to the Good Times* includes hits like “Get Your Shine On” and “Round Here.” These tracks solidified Florida Georgia Line’s reputation as trailblazers in country music.