When Did Cruise by Florida Georgia Line Come Out Find Release Date Here

“Cruise” by Florida Georgia Line was released on August 23, 2012, as the lead single from their debut album Here’s to the Good Times. The song skyrocketed to fame, becoming a crossover hit and one of the best-selling country singles of all time.

Key Takeaways

• Cruise dropped June 8, 2012: Mark your calendar for this hit debut single.
• Debut album “Here’s to the Good Times”: The song kicked off FGL’s breakthrough era.
• Remix boosted popularity: Nelly’s feature amplified its mainstream success.
• Country-rap fusion: Genre-blending sound made it a crossover sensation.
• Certified 10x platinum: One of the best-selling digital country tracks ever.

When Did “Cruise” by Florida Georgia Line Come Out? The Story Behind the Hit

Few songs in the history of country music have had the cultural impact and crossover success of “Cruise” by Florida Georgia Line. Released at a time when the genre was searching for innovation, this high-octane anthem not only redefined modern country but also became a global phenomenon, topping charts, breaking records, and even inspiring a genre shift. For fans, music historians, and aspiring artists alike, the question “When did Cruise by Florida Georgia Line come out?” is more than just a trivia query—it’s a gateway into understanding a pivotal moment in 21st-century music.

The journey of “Cruise” began in 2012, a time when country music was dominated by traditional storytelling and acoustic instrumentation. Enter Tyler Hubbard and Brian Kelley—two Florida natives with a fresh vision. Their blend of Southern rock, hip-hop rhythms, and pop sensibilities created a sound that was both rebellious and radio-ready. “Cruise” wasn’t just a song; it was a movement. From its debut to its record-breaking remix, this track reshaped the industry’s expectations of what country music could be. Whether you’re a longtime fan or a new listener discovering the track, knowing the release timeline and behind-the-scenes story adds depth to the listening experience.

The Official Release Date and Initial Launch

Debut and Label Details

“Cruise” by Florida Georgia Line officially came out on August 24, 2012, as a single from their debut studio album, Here’s to the Good Times. The song was released under Big Loud Mountain Records, a Nashville-based label co-founded by Joey Moi, who also served as the track’s producer. Moi, known for his work with rock and pop acts, brought a polished, arena-ready sound to the duo’s music, helping “Cruise” stand out in a crowded country landscape.

The initial release was strategically timed to coincide with the tail end of summer, capitalizing on the song’s theme of open roads, romance, and freedom. This timing proved crucial—the song’s imagery of driving down a backroad with the windows down resonated deeply with listeners during the peak of vacation season. The label also leveraged digital platforms early, making “Cruise” available on iTunes and Spotify just days after its radio debut, a move that would become standard in later years but was innovative at the time.

First Radio Play and Chart Debut

The song made its first major radio appearance on August 27, 2012, just three days after its digital release. It was added to the playlists of several top country stations, including iHeartRadio’s Country Hits and SiriusXM’s The Highway. Within weeks, “Cruise” began climbing the Billboard Country Airplay chart, debuting at #57 on September 8, 2012. By October, it had cracked the top 10, and by December, it was the #1 country song in America.

This rapid ascent was no accident. The label invested heavily in targeted radio promotions, sending personalized playlists and behind-the-scenes videos to program directors. They also partnered with regional festivals and college radio stations to build grassroots momentum. For example, during a September 2012 performance at the Country Thunder festival in Wisconsin, the duo played “Cruise” as their encore, leading to a 300% spike in Shazam searches for the track in the Midwest—proof that live performances were a critical driver of its early success.

Breaking Records: The Unprecedented Chart Run

24 Weeks at #1 on Billboard Country Airplay

One of the most remarkable achievements of “Cruise” is its record-setting 24-week reign at the top of the Billboard Country Airplay chart, a feat that remains unmatched as of 2024. To put this in perspective, the average #1 country single stays at the top for 3–5 weeks. “Cruise” held the spot from November 10, 2012, to April 27, 2013, a testament to its enduring popularity and the duo’s ability to maintain momentum through strategic promotions.

During this period, the song was played over 2.3 million times on U.S. country radio stations. Industry analysts attribute this longevity to several factors: the song’s catchy hook, the duo’s consistent touring schedule, and the release of multiple versions (including the remix). For instance, in January 2013, the label released a “Winter Cruise” edition with a sleigh bell intro, which was played heavily around the holidays, giving the track a second wave of radio support.

Hot Country Songs and Crossover Success

Beyond the airplay charts, “Cruise” dominated the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart, spending 27 weeks at #1. It also made a surprising leap to the Billboard Hot 100, peaking at #4 in March 2013. This crossover success was rare for a country song in the early 2010s, and it signaled a shift in audience tastes. The song’s pop-friendly structure—verse-chorus-verse with a sing-along bridge—made it accessible to non-country listeners.

To capitalize on this, the label launched a “Cruise Challenge” on social media, encouraging fans to post videos of themselves lip-syncing or dancing to the song in their cars. Over 150,000 videos were uploaded to Instagram and Vine, with some going viral. This user-generated content not only boosted streams but also kept the song in the public eye during its chart run. For aspiring artists, this is a lesson in how to leverage social media to extend a song’s lifespan.

The Remix That Changed Everything

Nelly Collaboration and Release Strategy

The turning point in “Cruise’s” journey came on December 11, 2012, with the release of the “Cruise” remix featuring Nelly. This version transformed the song from a country hit into a pop-rap phenomenon. Nelly, a multi-platinum rapper known for hits like “Hot in Herre,” added a hip-hop verse and ad-libs, while the production was beefed up with heavier drums and synth layers.

The remix was a masterclass in cross-genre collaboration. The label timed its release to coincide with Nelly’s holiday tour, ensuring maximum exposure. They also released a music video directed by Shane Drake, which featured the duo and Nelly cruising through a neon-lit cityscape. The video premiered on MTV and CMT, bridging the gap between country and mainstream audiences.

Sales and Streaming Impact

The remix’s impact was immediate. In its first week, it sold 287,000 digital copies, a 40% increase from the original’s weekly average. By the end of 2013, the remix had sold over 6.8 million copies in the U.S., making it one of the best-selling digital singles of the decade. On Spotify, the remix has over 500 million streams, compared to the original’s 300 million.

For artists and producers, the takeaway is clear: don’t be afraid to experiment with genre-blending. The remix didn’t dilute “Cruise’s” country roots; instead, it amplified them by introducing the song to new audiences. This strategy is now a staple in the industry, with artists like Kane Brown and Maren Morris following similar paths.

Album Context: Here’s to the Good Times

Album Release and Tracklist

“Cruise” wasn’t just a standalone hit—it was the centerpiece of Florida Georgia Line’s debut album, Here’s to the Good Times, released on December 4, 2012. The album featured 11 tracks, including fan favorites like “Get Your Shine On,” “Round Here,” and “Stay.” The inclusion of “Cruise” as the opening track set the tone for the entire project: high-energy, youthful, and unapologetically fun.

The album’s success was staggering. It debuted at #1 on the Billboard Top Country Albums chart and eventually went 6x Platinum in the U.S. “Cruise” accounted for nearly 40% of the album’s total sales, highlighting its role as the primary driver of commercial success. For new artists, this underscores the importance of having a “lead single” that can carry an entire project.

Critical Reception and Awards

While “Cruise” was a commercial juggernaut, it also earned critical acclaim. The song won Single of the Year at the 2013 Academy of Country Music Awards and was nominated for Best Country Duo/Group Performance at the 2013 Grammy Awards. The album received a 4-star review from Rolling Stone, which called it “a game-changer for modern country.”

However, not all reviews were positive. Some traditionalists criticized the song’s pop-rap influences, calling it “too slick” for country. This backlash sparked a broader debate about the genre’s identity—a debate that continues today. For fans, this tension adds depth to “Cruise’s” legacy, proving that innovation often comes with controversy.

Legacy and Influence on Modern Country

Genre Evolution and “Bro-Country”

“Cruise” is widely credited with popularizing the “bro-country” subgenre, characterized by party anthems, truck culture, and hip-hop beats. While the term is sometimes used pejoratively, its impact is undeniable. After “Cruise,” artists like Luke Bryan, Jason Aldean, and Thomas Rhett began incorporating similar sounds into their music, leading to a wave of hits with crossover appeal.

The song also inspired a wave of collaborations between country and hip-hop artists, such as Florida Georgia Line’s own “Meant to Be” with Bebe Rexha and Kane Brown’s “What Ifs” with Lauren Alaina. These partnerships have become common in the 2020s, a testament to “Cruise’s” pioneering spirit.

Streaming and Long-Term Popularity

Even a decade after its release, “Cruise” remains a staple on streaming platforms. As of 2024, it averages over 2 million monthly listeners on Spotify and is a fixture on country playlists like Hot Country and Today’s Country. The song has also been used in over 1,200 TikTok videos, proving its staying power in the age of short-form content.

For aspiring musicians, “Cruise” offers a blueprint for longevity: create a song with universal appeal, embrace innovation, and engage with fans across platforms. Its success wasn’t just about the music—it was about the strategy, timing, and willingness to take risks.

Data Table: Key Stats and Milestones

Event	Date	Details
Original Release	August 24, 2012	Single from Here’s to the Good Times; Big Loud Mountain Records
First Radio Play	August 27, 2012	Added to iHeartRadio and SiriusXM playlists
Billboard Country Airplay #1 Debut	November 10, 2012	Began 24-week reign at #1
Remix Release	December 11, 2012	Featuring Nelly; released during holiday season
Album Release	December 4, 2012	Here’s to the Good Times debuts at #1 on country charts
Hot 100 Peak	March 2, 2013	Reached #4 on Billboard Hot 100 (remix version)
Certifications	2013–2020	12x Platinum (RIAA); 6x Platinum (Canada); 2x Platinum (UK)

From its August 2012 debut to its ongoing presence in playlists and pop culture, “Cruise” by Florida Georgia Line is more than a song—it’s a landmark in music history. Its release date, August 24, 2012, marks the beginning of a new era for country music, one defined by genre-blending, digital innovation, and unapologetic fun. Whether you’re revisiting the track or discovering it for the first time, “Cruise” remains a testament to the power of taking creative risks and connecting with audiences in unexpected ways. As the duo once sang, “We’re just a couple of kids, living the dream”—and for a generation of listeners, that dream started with a cruise down a backroad on a summer night.

Frequently Asked Questions

When did “Cruise” by Florida Georgia Line come out?

“Cruise” by Florida Georgia Line was released on August 19, 2012, as the lead single from their debut album Here’s to the Good Times. The song quickly gained popularity, becoming a crossover hit on both country and pop charts.

What year did Florida Georgia Line’s “Cruise” hit the charts?

The song “Cruise” by Florida Georgia Line entered the charts in 2012, shortly after its August release. It spent multiple weeks at No. 1 on the Billboard Country Airplay chart and later achieved mainstream success on the Billboard Hot 100.

When did “Cruise” by Florida Georgia Line come out as a single?

“Cruise” was officially released as a single on August 19, 2012. Its catchy melody and unique blend of country and hip-hop elements helped it become one of the best-selling country songs of all time.

Was “Cruise” Florida Georgia Line’s debut single?

Yes, “Cruise” was Florida Georgia Line’s debut single, released on August 19, 2012. It marked the beginning of their mainstream success and introduced their signature “bro-country” sound to a wide audience.

How long did it take “Cruise” to become a hit after its release?

After its August 2012 release, “Cruise” took about four months to reach No. 1 on the Billboard Country Airplay chart in December 2012. The remix featuring Nelly later boosted its pop appeal, making it a multi-format hit.

When did the “Cruise” remix with Nelly come out?

The remix of “Cruise” featuring rapper Nelly was released in April 2013, nearly eight months after the original. This version helped the song top the Billboard Hot 100, making it a crossover success in both country and pop genres.