Step back in time to the colorful and vibrant world of 1970s advertisements.
Journey with us as we rediscover the catchy jingles that effortlessly transported us to a realm of nostalgia.
From the unmistakable melodies of Wisk detergent to the irresistible charm of Wendy’s, these 10 iconic ad jingles will transport you back to an era of polyester pantsuits and disco fever.
Get ready to sing along and relive the magic of 70s advertising in this captivating article.
70’s advertisements
70’s advertisements were filled with memorable jingles that have stood the test of time.
From the iconic “My bologna has a first name” jingle by Oscar Mayer to the catchy “Ring around the collar” jingle for Wisk detergent, these ads connected brands with their products in a memorable way.
The Band-Aid jingle, written by Barry Manilow, remains a standout, and Manilow also penned the jingle for State Farm.
The 1970s also saw the rise of McDonald’s famous “You deserve a break today” jingle and Coca-Cola’s timeless anthem “I’d like to teach the world to sing.” The decade was full of jingles that not only promoted products but also became part of popular culture.
Key Points:
- 70’s advertisements featured memorable jingles that are still remembered today
- Examples include the Oscar Mayer jingle and the Wisk detergent jingle
- The Band-Aid jingle, written by Barry Manilow, and the State Farm jingle were also standouts
- McDonald’s “You deserve a break today” and Coca-Cola’s “I’d like to teach the world to sing” were popular jingles from the era
- These jingles not only promoted products but also became part of popular culture
- The 1970s saw the rise of jingles that connected brands with their products in a memorable way
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💡 Did You Know?
1. In the 1970s, Coca-Cola introduced a controversial ad campaign featuring a jingle that challenged consumers to “have a Coke and a smile.” The jingle became so popular that it stayed in circulation for over a decade, making it one of the longest-running ad jingles in history.
2. One iconic 1970s advertisement that had a lasting impact on pop culture was the Alka-Seltzer “Plop, Plop, Fizz, Fizz” campaign. The catchy jingle was performed by an aspiring opera singer named Tom Dawes, who later went on to become a founding member of the popular 1960s band The Cyrcle.
3. In an effort to appeal to a younger audience, McDonald’s launched the “You Deserve a Break Today” campaign in the 1970s. This campaign featured a catchy jingle and showcased vibrant scenes of people enjoying their meals at McDonald’s. The campaign was a massive success and helped solidify McDonald’s position as a fast-food icon.
4. The iconic Marlboro Man, an enduring symbol of masculinity, first appeared in cigarette advertisements in the 1950s. However, it was in the 1970s that the campaign gained widespread popularity, capturing the imagination of many with its rugged cowboy imagery. The Marlboro Man ads became so successful that they played a major role in increasing Marlboro’s market share and establishing it as one of the world’s best-selling cigarette brands.
5. One lesser-known 1970s advertisement that created quite a stir was the “I’d Like to Buy the World a Coke” campaign by Coca-Cola. The ad featured a diverse group of young people singing a song about unity and harmony while holding bottles of Coca-Cola. Interestingly, this ad later inspired the creation of the famous Coca-Cola commercial, “Hilltop,” which is often regarded as one of the greatest TV ads of all time.
Oscar Mayer’s Memorable Jingle: “My Bologna Has A First Name”
In the 1970s, one jingle that stands out among the rest is the catchy tune for Oscar Mayer’s bologna. With its simple yet effective lyrics, “My bologna has a first name, it’s O-S-C-A-R,” this jingle forever connected the brand and the product in the minds of consumers. The music was cheery and easy to remember, making it a hit both on television and radio.
The brilliance of this jingle lies in its ability to create a lasting impression. By repeatedly reinforcing the brand name and spelling it out in the lyrics, Oscar Mayer successfully implanted their product’s name into the collective consciousness of the audience. Even today, decades after the advertisement first aired, many people still remember the jingle and can sing it from memory.
- The catchy tune for Oscar Mayer’s bologna, with its simple yet effective lyrics, “My bologna has a first name, it’s O-S-C-A-R,” stood out among jingles in the 1970s.
- The jingle connected the brand and product in the minds of consumers and its cheery and memorable music made it a hit on television and radio.
- The brilliance of this jingle lies in its ability to create a lasting impression by repetitively spelling out and reinforcing the brand name in the lyrics.
- Even today, decades after its first airing, many people still remember the jingle and can sing it from memory.
Wisk Detergent Targets Wives With “Ring Around The Collar”
Another memorable jingle from the 1970s comes from Wisk detergent and their famous “Ring around the collar” campaign. This jingle specifically targeted wives who were responsible for keeping their husband’s clothes clean. The tune featured a catchy melody and lyrics that emphasized the effectiveness of Wisk in removing those stubborn collar stains.
The jingle’s effectiveness lies in its relatability. Women could empathize with the frustration of dealing with dirty collars and find solace in the fact that Wisk presented a solution. By positioning themselves as the go-to brand for tackling this specific laundry issue, Wisk successfully differentiated themselves from their competitors.
Barry Manilow’s Iconic Band-Aid Jingle
During the 1970s, the Band-Aid brand commissioned Barry Manilow to create a jingle that would promote their adhesive bandages. Manilow, already a renowned songwriter and performer, crafted a memorable tune that served as a testament to his talent.
The jingle featured the brand’s name prominently and showcased Manilow’s signature style.
The jingle’s staying power is a testament to its effectiveness. Decades after its release, many people still associate Band-Aid with Manilow’s catchy jingle. The combination of Manilow’s musical prowess and the brand’s recognition created a powerful promotional tool that resonated with audiences.
– The Band-Aid brand commissioned Barry Manilow to create a jingle to promote their adhesive bandages
- Manilow’s tune showcased his signature style
- The jingle’s staying power is a testament to its effectiveness
Barry Manilow and the State Farm Advertisement
In addition to his work with Band-Aid, Barry Manilow‘s jingle success extended to the insurance industry. Manilow composed a jingle for State Farm, one of the leading insurance companies at the time. Unlike his previous endeavors, Manilow received a flat payment of $500 for his work instead of royalties.
Despite the lack of ongoing financial benefits, Manilow’s jingle for State Farm proved to be a success. Its catchy melody and clever lyrics effectively conveyed the brand’s message to consumers. Manilow’s contribution to the commercial’s success cannot be overstated, as his talent helped elevate it above other advertisements in the crowded insurance market.
- Manilow had success composing jingles for both Band-Aid and State Farm.
- For his jingle for State Farm, Manilow received a flat payment of $500 instead of royalties.
- The catchy melody and clever lyrics of the jingle effectively conveyed State Farm’s message to consumers.
- Manilow’s talent helped the commercial stand out in the competitive insurance market.
Barry Manilow Honored at the 2009 Clio Advertising Awards
In 2009, Barry Manilow was honored at the Clio Advertising Awards for his exceptional contributions to the advertising industry. Known for his memorable jingles, Manilow’s ability to create catchy tunes that resonated with audiences for decades was acknowledged and praised by professionals in the field.
This prestigious award highlighted the enduring influence of jingles and their role in shaping consumer culture. Manilow’s knack for crafting melodies and lyrics that struck a chord with audiences played a crucial role in the success of numerous brands and their advertising campaigns. His legendary status in the advertising world ensures that his name will forever be remembered in its history.
Ace Hardware’s Gendered Jingle: From “Helpful Hardware Man” To Female Clerks
During the 1970s, Ace Hardware utilized a jingle that reflected the gender attitudes of the time. Their memorable tune initially referred to a “helpful hardware man,” reflecting the prevailing belief that men were the primary customers and employees in hardware stores. However, in 1989, Ace Hardware updated their slogan to be more inclusive and to acknowledge the increasing presence of female clerks in their stores.
This change in the jingle marked a shift in societal norms and a recognition of the evolving gender dynamics within the hardware industry. By embracing the inclusion of female clerks in their advertising, Ace Hardware showcased their commitment to adapting to the changing times and appealing to a wider customer base.
McDonald’s Resonating Jingle: “You Deserve A Break Today”
One of the most resonating jingles from the 1970s came from McDonald’s with their catchy tune, “You deserve a break today.” This jingle connected with busy Americans who were seeking a quick and convenient meal option. The original ad featured well-known actors like John Amos and Anson Williams, further enhancing its appeal.
The jingle’s success lies in its ability to tap into the emotions and desires of consumers. It presented McDonald’s as a place where people could take a break from their hectic lives and enjoy a satisfying meal. The jingle’s catchy melody and relatable lyrics created a strong association between the brand and the concept of indulgence and relaxation.
Coca-Cola’s Irish Airport Inspiration for “I’d Like to Teach the World to Sing”
In 1971, Coca-Cola released the iconic jingle, “I’d Like to Teach the World to Sing,” which became synonymous with the brand. The inspiration for the jingle came from a layover in an Irish airport where passengers from different corners of the world bonded over their love for Coca-Cola. This diverse and harmonious jingle conveyed a message of unity and peace.
During a time of social and political turmoil, the jingle resonated with audiences, offering a sense of optimism and hope. Its infectious melody and powerful lyrics became a symbol of Coca-Cola’s values and their aspiration to have a positive impact on the world.
- The jingle, “I’d Like to Teach the World to Sing,” became iconic for Coca-Cola.
- Inspired by a layover in an Irish airport, where passengers bonded over their love for Coca-Cola.
- Conveys a message of unity and peace.
- Resonated with audiences during a time of social and political turmoil.
- Symbolizes Coca-Cola’s values and their desire to make a positive impact on the world.
McDonald’s Big Mac Slogan Challenge: “Two All-Beef Patties, Special Sauce…”
Among the plethora of jingles from the 1970s, one that stood out was the slogan for McDonald’s iconic Big Mac. The jingle encouraged consumers to memorize and say the full description of the burger: “Two all-beef patties, special sauce, lettuce, cheese, pickles, onions on a sesame seed bun.” This catchy challenge skyrocketed in popularity and became a cultural phenomenon.
The jingle’s success lay in its memorable nature and the participatory aspect it created. People enjoyed mastering the challenge and reciting the entire description with pride. This jingle not only solidified the Big Mac as a staple in American culture but also showcased McDonald’s ability to create engaging and interactive advertising campaigns.
Memorable Jingles: Alka-Seltzer, Folgers Coffee, Meow Mix, and Wendy’s Hamburger
In addition to the aforementioned jingles, the 1970s produced several other memorable tunes that shaped consumer culture. Alka-Seltzer’s jingle, “Plop, plop, fizz, fizz,” created in the 1960s, continued to resonate with audiences throughout the 1970s. Its catchy lyrics and playful melody became synonymous with the brand and its effectiveness in alleviating discomfort.
Folgers Coffee also had an iconic slogan: “The best part of waking up is Folgers in your cup.” This jingle emphasized the importance of starting the day on the right foot with a fresh cup of coffee and captured the essence of the Folgers brand.
Meow Mix, a cat food brand, had a jingle that became so annoying that it was used by the CIA in its interrogation program. While the jingle may have annoyed some, its catchy melody and repetition effectively embedded the brand in the minds of consumers.
Wendy’s Hamburger utilized a jingle featuring Jonathan Winters and the phrase “Hot ‘n’ juicy.” This jingle emphasized the appeal of Wendy’s burgers and their high-quality ingredients, further differentiating them from their fast-food competitors.
The 1970s were a golden era for advertising jingles. These musical gems shaped consumer culture by creating lasting brand associations and evoking a sense of nostalgia. From Oscar Mayer’s catchy “My bologna has a first name” to McDonald’s resonating “You deserve a break today,” these jingles continue to hold a special place in the hearts and minds of consumers. Barry Manilow’s contributions, both with Band-Aid and State Farm, solidify his status as a legendary figure in the world of advertising. Brands like Coca-Cola, Ace Hardware, and Wendy’s successfully utilized jingles to connect with their target audience and enhance their brand recognition. Whether annoying or loved, these jingles played a significant role in shaping consumer culture, reminding us of the power and impact of music in advertising.
FAQ
What are some commercials from the 70s?
In the 1970s, iconic commercials captured the attention of viewers with catchy jingles and memorable phrases. One commercial featured a jingle that became synonymous with a popular lunch meat, as a cheerful song revealed “my bologna has a first name.” Another household product commercial addressed the pesky issue of collar stains, promoting a laundry detergent with the jingle “ring around the collar!” Additionally, a fast food chain enticed people to take a break from their routine with the slogan “you deserve a break today.”
Meanwhile, an insurance company encouraged a sense of security with their catchy jingle “like a good neighbor, _____ is there.” Another commercial promoted a hardware store as “_____ is the place with the helpful hardware man,” emphasizing their reliable service and expertise. Lastly, a soft drink brand aimed to spread a message of unity and harmony, as they sang “I’d like to teach the world to sing” in one of their commercials. These commercials of the 70s became ingrained in popular culture, leaving lasting impressions on audiences.
How were things advertised in the 1970s?
In the 1970s, advertising shifted its focus from newspapers and magazines to TV advertisements. With the increasing prevalence of television sets in American households, brands recognized the potential reach and impact of this visual medium. As a result, they began investing more money into TV ad campaigns, making viewing TV a core cultural experience. This shift in advertising strategy allowed brands to captivate a wider audience and convey their messages in a more visually compelling way.
What was the trend in advertising in the 70s?
In the 1970s, advertising underwent a significant shift, moving away from its traditional straightforward messaging to a more emotionally driven approach, which sometimes went to extremes. Advertisers recognized the power of evoking emotions and began utilizing this tactic to create stronger connections with consumers. However, amidst this change, a controversial and frowned-upon practice emerged: subliminal messaging. Advertisers briefly flirted with the idea of incorporating hidden messages into their ads, attempting to influence consumers on a subconscious level. Although the trend was short-lived and received criticism, it remains an intriguing aspect of 1970s advertising methods.
What ads were banned in 1971?
In 1971, a significant shift occurred in the advertising landscape with the implementation of the cigarette broadcast advertising ban. This ban compelled cigarette manufacturers to divert their advertising budgets from broadcast media to print media. As a consequence, numerous captivating and thought-provoking cigarette advertisements embedded in television and radio broadcasts were prohibited, leaving an indelible gap in the marketing industry. The effective ban triggered a paradigm shift in the industry, forcing advertisers to devise innovative strategies to capture the attention of their target audience in the print media. While this abrupt change may have disrupted the traditional advertising practices of cigarette manufacturers, it also paved the way for creative and engaging campaigns to flourish in the world of print advertising.