16 Soda Commercials That Made You Thirsty as a Kid
These legendary soda commercials didn’t just sell drinks—they sold excitement, coolness, and major childhood cravings.
- Chris Graciano
- 4 min read
Before streaming and skipping ads, soda commercials ruled the airwaves—and some of them were downright unforgettable. From catchy jingles to iconic spokespeople, these fizzy promos stuck in your brain and had you begging for a cold can. Let’s take a fizzy trip down memory lane with 16 soda ads that made you rush to the fridge as a kid.
1. Pepsi – Michael Jackson “The Choice of a New Generation” (1984)
Alex Urezkov on Pexels
Pop royalty met pop fizz in this high-energy spot that lit up the ‘80s. Featuring a catchy jingle and MJ’s signature moves, it redefined soda advertising.
2. Coca-Cola – “I’d Like to Buy the World a Coke” (1971)
Ali Pli on Pexels
This feel-good anthem lived on in reruns even if you weren’t around then. With its global message and iconic hilltop setting, it made Coke feel like peace in a bottle.
3. 7UP – The Uncola Guy (1970s–1980s)
Brett Jordan on Pexels
Cool, suave, and totally different—the Uncola Guy gave 7UP an identity that stood out. His Caribbean flair and smooth voice made you want to try something offbeat.
4. Dr Pepper – “I’m a Pepper” (Late 1970s–1980s)
Luke Landon on Pexels
Catchy, quirky, and proud to be different—Dr Pepper’s jingle turned into a movement. The irresistible dance-filled ads made you want to join the Pepper crowd.
5. Pepsi – Cindy Crawford (1992)
HS Studio By Hussnain on Pexels
There was one woman, one vending machine, and one can of Pepsi. This commercial redefined ‘90s cool in 30 seconds flat.
6. Sprite – “Obey Your Thirst” (1990s)
Ali Dashti on Pexels
This edgy, urban campaign brought rap, basketball, and rebellion to soda ads. It spoke directly to the youth without sugar-coating.
7. Coca-Cola – Mean Joe Greene (1979)
Himalaya Karan on Pexels
Featuring a sweaty football legend, a generous kid, and a heartwarming exchange, this ad melted hearts nationwide. “Hey kid, catch!” became an instant classic.
8. Surge – “Feed the Rush” (1997)
Magnus Kolstad on Flickr
Extreme sports, wild stunts, and a chaotic energy blast—Surge came in loud. The ad matched its neon green intensity, drawing in every thrill-seeking kid.
9. Mountain Dew – “Do the Dew” (1990s)
Erik Mclean on Pexels
Skydiving, BMX biking, and nonstop energy—this campaign was an adrenaline rush. It branded Dew as the ultimate fuel for the fearless.
10. Fanta – “Wanta Fanta?” (Early 2000s)
Mohammadreza Babaei on Pexels
Colorful, bubbly, and full of dancing Fantanas—this jingle wouldn’t leave your head. The playful tone made Fanta seem like a party in a bottle.
11. RC Cola – Moon Man Ads (1980s)
U.S. Embassy in Tashkent on Wikimedia Commons
With quirky humor and outer space antics, RC Cola tried to stand out. It wasn’t the market leader, but these offbeat ads gained a following.
12. Coca-Cola – Santa Claus Campaigns (Annual Since 1931)
Jonathan Borba on Pexels
Santa and Coke go way back, but the ’70s and ’80s versions made them sparkle. These cozy, snowy ads made Coke feel like Christmas in a bottle.
13. Pepsi – Britney Spears “Joy of Pepsi” (2001)
Jason Sung on Unsplash
With dance routines, neon lights, and a booming pop track, this commercial was all about star power. Britney made Pepsi feel bold and fresh.
14. Jolt Cola – “All the Sugar and Twice the Caffeine” (1980s)
Brent Moore on Flickr
This was the soda your parents didn’t want you drinking. The ad was all about raw energy, rebellion, and no apologies.
15. Tab – “For Beautiful People” (1970s)
Jerry “Woody” on Wikimedia Commons
Marketed as the first diet soda with a sexy edge, Tab’s ads focused on glamour and aspiration. The pink can and breezy tone made it feel chic.
16. Pepsi – “Pepsi Generation” (1980s)
Rohit Sharma on Unsplash
This campaign embraced youth, freedom, and fun, delivering big sing-alongs and even bigger branding. It made you want to be part of something bigger.