Tyler Hubbard officially has his first No. 1 single as a solo artist. After years with Florida Georgia Line, both Hubbard and his former duo partner, Brian Kelley, decided they wanted to launch their own solo careers instead. Hubbard’s first release was “5 Foot 9,” a song he wrote with Jaren Johnston and Chase McGill, from his forthcoming self-titled album, out on January 27.
“Reaching No.1 with my first single as a solo artist is an incredible feeling,” says Hubbard. “I’m overwhelmed with gratitude when I think of everyone who has supported and stood behind me. I’m thankful to the fans, country radio, my team, and everyone at EMI Records and UMG Nashville for believing in me and working so hard to make this dream become a reality.”
Hubbard also spoke out about the honor on social media.
“I just want to say thank you to everybody who worked so hard to make this happen….I’m just so grateful, and I want to say thank you guys so much,” Hubbard says. “This is really an exciting season for me, and I’m more inspired than ever, so thank you for making this happen. And I just want to say, having the opportunity to have a second first single is just something that I never dreamed of, and I’m just so grateful. So thank you again. God bless you, and I hope to see you guys real soon on the road.”
We wrote “5 Foot 9” a year ago and to see it at #1 is so incredible. I’m overwhelmed with gratitude as I think of everyone who has not only played my music, but supported and stood behind me. Thank you for believing in me and playing my music so I can continue to do what I love. pic.twitter.com/467dC1GfCH
— Tyler Hubbard (@tylerhubbard) November 14, 2022
Hubbard wrote “5 Foot 9” about his wife, Hayley, even though he didn’t get her height exactly correct.
“I’ve got to be honest. I have a confession. I missed it by an inch,” Hubbard told Everything Nash and other outlets during a virtual media event. “She’s actually 5 foot 10 inches. I went home at night and said, ‘Babe, remind me again how tall you are exactly. You’re about 5 foo 9?’ She said ‘5 foot 10 inches.’ And I said, ‘Well, here’s a new song I wrote today. I’m sorry I cut you short by an inch, but I hope you like it.’”
It’s been a big month for the Georgia native. Hubbard also made his Grand Ole Opry debut as a solo artist on Friday, November 11, performing “Way Home” and his next single, “Dancin’ In The Country.” Prior to his performance, Hubbard also received a plaque celebrating “5 Foot 9″ being certified gold.
“Stepping into the circle to perform on stage at the Grand Ole Opry is such an incredible honor,” Hubbard reflects. “Being at the Opry with family and friends and getting to celebrate “5 Foot 9” being certified gold is a moment I’ll never forget.”
Keep track of music and tour dates at TylerHubbardOfficial.com.