Exploring The Creative Journey Behind Florida Georgia Line's "Sun Daze"

Sometimes the most random ideas make for great songs, as Florida Georgia Line found out with 'Sun Daze.' This vibrant track emerged during the final stages of the duo's sophomore album, 'Anything Goes,' and its creation was nearly serendipitous. Songwriters Jesse Frasure and Cary Barlowe shared the fascinating story of how this catchy tune came to life, revealing that it was born out of an unexpected collaboration on a tour.

Frasure recalls, "I was out doing a DJ run with them on this Nelly tour." This tour, which took place at minor league baseball parks, provided the backdrop for inspiration. Frasure had the opportunity to open for FGL, emceeing the show and engaging with fans while also collaborating with fellow songwriters Cary Barlowe and Sarah Buxton. They decided to hit the road together to explore songwriting possibilities, setting the stage for the creative process that would lead to 'Sun Daze.'

Once they embarked on their journey, the trio quickly found their groove. The energy was high, and ideas began to flow. "We emailed them one morning, they showed up, and that first day we wrote 'Good Good,'" Frasure recounted. That night, while hanging out with Brian Kelley from FGL, the discussion turned to wanting to experiment with a reggae vibe. This playful approach hinted at the adventurous spirit that would define the song's unique sound.

Songwriters	Collaborators	Album	Release Year
Jesse Frasure	Cary Barlowe, Sarah Buxton	Anything Goes	2014

During an overnight drive, Frasure and Barlowe began piecing together musical ideas for a reggae-influenced track. When Buxton joined the next day, the song was still in its early stages, but the vision was clear. They aimed to create a tune that would allow fans to escape reality and enjoy a carefree moment.

The writing process took a pivotal turn when Brian shared a line he had jotted down: "All I want to do today is wear my favorite shades and get stoned." This bold statement shifted the direction of the song, pushing the boundaries of conventional country music. Barlowe reflected on the moment, saying, "When he said that, we were like, 'Wow -- that’s pretty much coming out and saying it!'" The group embraced this candid lyricism, leading to a fun and liberating atmosphere in the studio.

As they continued to develop the song, the writers were aware that it might not align with traditional country radio standards. With lyrics like, "If I'm lucky yeah I might get laid," they understood that they were venturing into uncharted territory. Yet, rather than shy away from it, they leaned into the carefree theme, ultimately crafting a feel-good anthem that resonated with listeners.

The song has achieved remarkable success for Florida Georgia Line, illustrating their ability to create music that captures the essence of having a good time. While some critics have voiced concerns about its themes, the songwriters remain unfazed, acknowledging the importance of fun in their music. "They create an atmosphere of fun; their whole job is to let the fans forget about all the worst in life for one night," Frasure stated, highlighting the song's intent and impact.

In summary, the journey of creating 'Sun Daze' showcases the power of collaboration and spontaneity in music. Florida Georgia Line and their songwriters transformed a casual tour stop into a chart-topping hit, reminding us all that sometimes the best ideas come from unexpected moments of inspiration.

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