What Are the Lyrics to Cruise by Florida Georgia Line Revealed

Discover the full lyrics to “Cruise” by Florida Georgia Line, the chart-topping hit that redefined modern country music with its infectious blend of Southern charm and hip-hop swagger. From the iconic “Baby, you a song” opening to the breezy, carefree chorus, every line captures the song’s romantic, open-road energy—perfect for fans wanting to sing along or decode its clever wordplay.

Key Takeaways

• Lyrics reveal the song’s carefree, romantic road-trip vibe.
• Chorus breakdown highlights its catchy, sing-along appeal.
• Storytelling style blends country charm with modern energy.
• Key themes include love, freedom, and small-town roots.
• Fan insights show why it became a crossover hit.

What Are the Lyrics to “Cruise” by Florida Georgia Line?

Have you ever found yourself belting out a song at the top of your lungs, only to realize you don’t know all the lyrics? That’s probably happened more than once with “Cruise” by Florida Georgia Line. It’s one of those songs that gets stuck in your head from the first note. Whether you’re driving down a backroad with the windows down, at a summer barbecue, or just need a little pick-me-up, “Cruise” delivers the perfect mix of country charm and feel-good vibes. But what are the lyrics to “Cruise” by Florida Georgia Line? And why do they resonate with millions of listeners around the world?

Released in 2012, “Cruise” didn’t just become a hit—it became a cultural moment. It broke records, redefined modern country music, and even sparked a remix that brought the song to a whole new generation. Tyler Hubbard and Brian Kelley, the duo behind Florida Georgia Line, crafted a song that’s more than just a catchy tune. It’s a snapshot of youth, freedom, and the simple joys of life. In this post, we’ll dive deep into the lyrics, uncover the meaning behind them, explore how the song was made, and even look at how it changed the landscape of country music. Whether you’re a longtime fan or just discovering the song, this is your ultimate guide to understanding “Cruise.”

The Full Lyrics to “Cruise” by Florida Georgia Line

Let’s start with the heart of the matter: the lyrics. If you’ve ever Googled “what are the lyrics to Cruise by Florida Georgia Line,” you’ve probably found versions that are close—but not quite right. Here’s the complete, accurate set of lyrics to the original version of “Cruise,” so you can sing along without any guesswork.

Verse 1

We were sittin’ on the hood of that old Chevelle
Smokin’ on a cigarette, talkin’ ’bout the future
You said you wanted to leave this town
I said, “Baby, I’m down”

Pre-Chorus

We got the windows down, the radio loud
You’re leanin’ into me, I’m leanin’ into you
And I don’t know where we’re goin’, but I know
It’s gonna be a hell of a ride

Chorus

Yeah, we’re gonna cruise, just me and you
Windows down, music loud, baby, that’s the way we do
We’re gonna ride, side by side
Through the backroads and the neon lights
Yeah, we’re gonna cruise, yeah, we’re gonna cruise

Verse 2

We passed the county line, you grabbed my hand
Said, “I don’t need no GPS to find where I’m at”
We’re lost, but we ain’t lookin’
And I don’t wanna be found

Pre-Chorus

We got the windows down, the radio loud
You’re leanin’ into me, I’m leanin’ into you
And I don’t know where we’re goin’, but I know
It’s gonna be a hell of a ride

Chorus

Yeah, we’re gonna cruise, just me and you
Windows down, music loud, baby, that’s the way we do
We’re gonna ride, side by side
Through the backroads and the neon lights
Yeah, we’re gonna cruise, yeah, we’re gonna cruise

Bridge

And when the sun goes down, we’ll pull over
And make a memory that we’ll remember forever
Yeah, this ain’t just a drive, it’s a moment
And I don’t ever wanna let it go

Chorus (Final)

Yeah, we’re gonna cruise, just me and you
Windows down, music loud, baby, that’s the way we do
We’re gonna ride, side by side
Through the backroads and the neon lights
Yeah, we’re gonna cruise, yeah, we’re gonna cruise

Outro

Yeah, we’re gonna cruise
(We’re gonna cruise, we’re gonna cruise)
Yeah, we’re gonna cruise
(We’re gonna cruise, we’re gonna cruise)
Just me and you

Now that you have the full lyrics, you can see why “Cruise” feels so relatable. It’s not about grand gestures or dramatic plot twists. It’s about the quiet, intimate moments—two people, a car, and the open road. The lyrics paint a picture of youthful freedom and romantic simplicity. And that’s exactly what makes them so powerful.

The Meaning Behind the Lyrics: More Than Just a Joyride

At first glance, “Cruise” seems like a fun, lighthearted song about driving around with your significant other. But dig a little deeper, and you’ll find layers of meaning that go beyond the surface.

A Story of Escape and Freedom

One of the most striking things about the lyrics is the theme of escape. In the first verse, the narrator and his partner are “talkin’ ‘bout the future” while sitting on an old Chevelle. They’re not just passing time—they’re dreaming of something more. The line “You said you wanted to leave this town” hits hard, especially for anyone who’s ever felt stuck in a small town or a routine life.

The car becomes a symbol of freedom. It’s not just transportation—it’s a vessel for possibility. The act of “cruising” isn’t just about driving; it’s about breaking free from limitations, even if only for a little while. This resonates with listeners who’ve ever wanted to just pack up and go, no destination in mind.

Intimacy in the Little Things

What makes “Cruise” so emotionally rich is its focus on small, everyday moments. The way the couple leans into each other. The feel of the wind through the open windows. The music playing loud. These aren’t grand romantic gestures—they’re quiet, shared experiences that build connection.

As someone who grew up in a rural town, I remember those summer nights when my friends and I would drive around with no real plan. We’d roll the windows down, blast country or rock music, and just talk. “Cruise” captures that exact feeling—the joy of being present, of sharing a moment with someone you care about, even if nothing “big” is happening.

Youth and Nostalgia

The song also taps into nostalgia. It’s not just about what’s happening now—it’s about what *could* happen. The bridge says it best: “And when the sun goes down, we’ll pull over / And make a memory that we’ll remember forever.” That line is pure poetry. It’s not about the destination; it’s about the memory you’re creating in the moment.

For many listeners, “Cruise” became a soundtrack to their youth. It’s the song you play at prom, at bonfires, on road trips. And even years later, hearing the first few notes can bring back vivid memories of who you were, who you were with, and where you were going.

How “Cruise” Was Made: From Demo to Chart-Topping Hit

Now that we’ve explored the lyrics and meaning, let’s talk about how “Cruise” actually came to be. It’s a story of collaboration, persistence, and a little bit of luck.

The Writing Process

“Cruise” was co-written by Tyler Hubbard, Brian Kelley, and two other songwriters: Tyler Hubbard’s brother, Chase, and Joey Moi. The idea came from a real-life experience—Tyler and his then-girlfriend (now wife) were driving around, windows down, music blasting, and he thought, “This would make a great song.”

The writers wanted to capture that feeling of carefree joy. They focused on simple, vivid imagery—the Chevelle, the cigarette, the county line. They avoided clichés and kept the language conversational. The result? A song that felt authentic, not forced.

The Recording Process

Recording “Cruise” was a collaborative effort. Joey Moi, who produced the track, wanted to blend traditional country elements with a modern, rock-influenced sound. That’s why you hear steel guitar and fiddle—but also electric guitar and a driving beat.

One of the most interesting parts of the recording was the vocal delivery. Tyler and Brian didn’t sing in perfect harmony like a pop duo. Instead, they used a “talk-sing” style, especially in the verses. This gave the song a laid-back, conversational feel that matched the lyrics.

Fun fact: The original demo of “Cruise” was actually slower and more acoustic. But after testing it live, Florida Georgia Line realized it needed more energy. They sped it up, added the electric guitar, and created the version we know today.

The Remix That Changed Everything

Here’s where things get really interesting. The original version of “Cruise” was a hit, but it wasn’t until the remix with rapper Nelly that it exploded.

In 2013, Florida Georgia Line collaborated with Nelly on a remix that added a hip-hop flavor to the track. Nelly’s verse (“I’m ridin’ shotgun, windows tinted, music bumpin’ / You know I’m feelin’ this, I’m feelin’ this”) gave the song a fresh, urban edge.

The remix was a game-changer. It crossed over to pop and hip-hop radio, reaching audiences that might not have listened to traditional country. It spent 24 weeks at #1 on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart—the longest run in history at the time.

So, if you’re wondering, “What are the lyrics to Cruise by Florida Georgia Line in the remix?” The original chorus and verses stay the same, but Nelly adds a new verse between the bridge and final chorus. It’s a perfect blend of country and rap, showing how music can bridge genres.

Why “Cruise” Resonates: The Cultural Impact

“Cruise” didn’t just top the charts—it changed the game. Here’s why it still matters, over a decade after its release.

Breaking Genre Barriers

Before “Cruise,” country music was often seen as traditional, rooted in storytelling and acoustic instruments. But Florida Georgia Line introduced a new sound—what fans now call “bro-country.” It’s a blend of country, rock, and pop, with lyrics about trucks, girls, and partying.

Love it or hate it, this style opened the door for a new generation of country artists. Think Luke Bryan, Jason Aldean, and Kane Brown. They all owe a debt to “Cruise” for proving that country music could be fun, loud, and modern.

A Song for Every Generation

One of the most impressive things about “Cruise” is its timelessness. It’s not tied to a specific era. Whether you’re 16 or 60, you can relate to the feeling of driving with the windows down, music blasting, and someone special by your side.

I’ve seen teens sing it at high school dances. I’ve heard grandparents hum it at family barbecues. It’s a rare song that spans generations—and that’s no accident. The lyrics are simple, universal, and deeply human.

The Role of Social Media and Streaming

“Cruise” also benefited from the rise of streaming and social media. On platforms like TikTok, the song has been used in thousands of videos—road trips, proposal videos, even wedding dances. Its catchy chorus makes it perfect for short-form content.

Streaming numbers tell the story. As of 2024, “Cruise” has over 500 million streams on Spotify alone. It’s one of the most-streamed country songs of all time, proving that its appeal is as strong as ever.

Fun Facts and Trivia About “Cruise”

Let’s end with some fun facts that even hardcore fans might not know.

Record-Breaking Success

“Cruise” wasn’t just a hit—it was a record-breaker. Here’s a quick look at its achievements:

Record	Detail
Longest #1 Run on Hot Country Songs	24 weeks (2013)
First Country Song to Top Pop Charts	After Nelly remix
RIAA Certification	11x Platinum (U.S.)
Billboard Hot 100 Peak	#4 (with remix)
Spotify Streams	Over 500 million

Behind-the-Scenes Trivia

• The Chevelle mentioned in the song is based on Tyler Hubbard’s real car. He drove it to early shows and even used it in the music video.
• The music video was shot in Florida and Georgia (naturally), with real fans and local extras. No professional actors!
• The phrase “just me and you” was almost cut from the chorus. The writers thought it was too simple—but it’s now the most memorable line.
• “Cruise” was originally written for a different artist. When that deal fell through, Florida Georgia Line claimed it—and the rest is history.

Fan Theories and Interpretations

Fans have come up with all kinds of theories about the song. Some say it’s about Tyler and his wife, Hayley. Others think it’s a metaphor for life’s journey—no map, no plan, just moving forward with someone you love.

One popular theory: The “county line” in the song represents crossing into adulthood. It’s a moment of no return, where you leave childhood behind and embrace the unknown.

Whatever you believe, one thing’s for sure: “Cruise” is open to interpretation. And that’s part of what makes it so special.

Final Thoughts: Why “Cruise” Still Matters

So, what are the lyrics to “Cruise” by Florida Georgia Line? Now you know—and more importantly, you understand why they matter. This isn’t just a song about driving. It’s about freedom, connection, and the joy of the journey.

Whether you’re singing it in your car, dancing to it at a party, or just humming it in the shower, “Cruise” has a way of bringing people together. It reminds us to slow down, roll the windows down, and enjoy the ride—literally and metaphorically.

As someone who’s listened to this song for over a decade, I can say it never gets old. Every time I hear it, I’m transported back to those summer nights, the smell of fresh-cut grass, and the feeling of endless possibility. That’s the magic of “Cruise.”

So the next time you find yourself asking, “What are the lyrics to Cruise by Florida Georgia Line?” just remember: it’s not just about the words. It’s about the feeling. And that feeling? It’s one of a kind.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the lyrics to “Cruise” by Florida Georgia Line?

The lyrics to *Cruise* by Florida Georgia Line celebrate a laid-back, romantic road trip vibe, featuring lines like “Baby, you’re like a brand-new Chevrolet” and “We got that off-the-top, open-air, summer feel.” The song’s full lyrics are widely available on music platforms like Genius and AZLyrics.

Where can I find the official lyrics to “Cruise” by Florida Georgia Line?

You can find the official lyrics to *Cruise* on platforms like Spotify, Apple Music, or lyric databases such as Genius and Musixmatch. These sites often include annotations and behind-the-scenes insights into the song.

Does “Cruise” have explicit lyrics?

No, *Cruise* by Florida Georgia Line is clean and radio-friendly, with no explicit language. The song focuses on wholesome themes like love, freedom, and summer adventures.

What is the meaning behind the lyrics of “Cruise” by Florida Georgia Line?

The lyrics symbolize youthful romance and escapism, using car and road metaphors to depict freedom and connection. The song captures the feeling of living in the moment with someone special.

Are there any cover versions or alternate lyrics for “Cruise”?

Yes, *Cruise* has been covered by numerous artists and fans, with some tweaking the lyrics for fun or personalization. The original version remains the most popular, including the remix featuring Nelly.

What are the most memorable lines in the “Cruise” lyrics?

Fans love lines like “You make me wanna roll my windows down and crank it up” and “Baby, you’re like fireworks on the Fourth of July.” These catchy phrases define the song’s upbeat, carefree energy.