10 ’70s Commercial Jingles That Everyone Sang Along To
In the 1970s, catchy commercial jingles became part of everyday life, with many becoming songs people still remember decades later.
- Sophia Zapanta
- 4 min read
The 1970s were a golden age for commercial jingles that stuck in people’s heads long after the ads ended. Companies relied on simple, repetitive tunes to make their brands instantly recognizable. These songs were played on television and radio, making them a regular part of popular culture at the time.
1. “I’d Like to Buy the World a Coke” – Coca-Cola (1971)
angrit on Wikimedia Commons
This jingle first appeared in a Coca-Cola commercial called “Hilltop” that featured people from around the world singing in harmony. The song promoted unity and peace while associating those values with the Coca-Cola brand. It became so popular that it was later re-recorded as a full song. The ad and its music became one of the most iconic commercials of the decade.
2. “Plop Plop Fizz Fizz” – Alka-Seltzer
Henk Albert de Klerk on Wikimedia Commons
This jingle used the phrase “Plop plop, fizz fizz, oh what a relief it is” to promote a stomach-relief product. The sound effects and rhythm made it easy for viewers to remember and repeat. It became a well-known phrase used outside of the ad. The jingle helped keep Alka-Seltzer visible on TV for many years.
3. “Two All-Beef Patties…” – McDonald’s Big Mac (1974)
Evan-Amos on Wikimedia Commons
The full jingle listed the ingredients of the Big Mac in a fast-paced chant: “Two all-beef patties, special sauce, lettuce, cheese, pickles, onions on a sesame seed bun.” McDonald’s even ran contests to see who could say it the fastest. It turned the sandwich into a cultural reference point. The campaign helped establish the Big Mac as a signature product.
4. “I Am Stuck on Band-Aid” – Band-Aid
Votpuske on Wikimedia Commons
This jingle used a child’s voice to sing “I am stuck on Band-Aid, ‘cause Band-Aid’s stuck on me.” It highlighted the product’s adhesive quality in a way kids and parents could remember. The tune was simple and easy to sing. The jingle helped Band-Aid become the go-to brand for adhesive bandages.
5. “My Bologna Has a First Name…” – Oscar Mayer
Oscar Mayer on Wikimedia Commons
This ad featured a young boy spelling out “O-S-C-A-R” to begin the catchy song. The jingle was used to teach the brand name through repetition and rhythm. It ran for years and became closely tied to the company’s image. Many people who grew up in the ’70s still remember the song word for word.
6. “Sometimes You Feel Like a Nut…” – Mounds/Almond Joy
Evan-Amos on Wikimedia Commons
This jingle was used to compare Mounds and Almond Joy candy bars. The line “Sometimes you feel like a nut, sometimes you don’t” helped people remember which candy had almonds and which didn’t. It used humor and contrast to sell both products at once. The ad ran regularly during prime-time TV hours.
7. “Hot Dogs, Armour Hot Dogs” – Armour
P199 on Wikimedia Commons
This jingle celebrated the idea that all kinds of kids eat Armour Hot Dogs, with lines describing different personalities. It was repetitive, easy to follow, and aimed at families. The ad combined upbeat music with images of active kids. It positioned Armour as a fun and trusted brand in households.
8. “You Deserve a Break Today” – McDonald’s (1971)
SilentSpike on Wikimedia Commons
This early McDonald’s jingle focused on giving people a reason to treat themselves. It used a relaxed tone to suggest fast food as a reward. The song helped shape McDonald’s as more than a restaurant—it became part of people’s routines. The tune was used in various forms throughout the decade.
9. “A Little Dab’ll Do Ya” – Brylcreem
Läderjackan on Wikimedia Commons
This jingle promoted Brylcreem, a men’s hair product, with the message that only a small amount was needed. The phrase became widely repeated in pop culture. The ad was short and direct, aimed at adult male consumers. It reflected the grooming trends of the time.
10. “Reach Out and Touch Someone” – AT&T
Harrison Keely on Wikimedia Commons
This emotional jingle encouraged people to call their loved ones using AT&T’s long-distance service. It was part of a national campaign to humanize phone calls during a time when they were still expensive and limited. The soft melody and message of connection made the jingle memorable. It emphasized emotion rather than features, which made it stand out.