18 Commercial Jingles That Still Pop Into Your Head
Commercial jingles became some of the most memorable parts of advertising, staying in people’s minds long after the commercials stopped airing.
- Sophia Zapanta
- 5 min read
For decades, brands used catchy jingles to make their products unforgettable. These short songs were designed to be simple, repetitive, and instantly recognizable. Many of them remain familiar today, showing how powerful music can be in advertising.
1. McDonald’s “I’m Lovin’ It”
Alex Neman on Wikimedia Commons
Launched in 2003, this jingle quickly became one of the most recognizable in fast food history. It was backed by a global campaign and used in nearly every commercial. The simple phrase and upbeat tune made it easy to remember. It is still used by McDonald’s today.
2. Oscar Mayer “I Wish I Were an Oscar Mayer Wiener”
Mobilus In Mobili on Wikimedia Commons
This jingle debuted in 1965 and became an instant classic. It was performed by children in commercials, which helped it connect with families. The lyrics were simple enough for kids to sing along. It remains one of the most nostalgic food jingles in the U.S.
3. Kit Kat “Gimme a Break”
Ravindradevi mint on Wikimedia Commons
Introduced in 1986, the Kit Kat jingle featured the line “Gimme a break, gimme a break, break me off a piece of that Kit Kat bar.” Its repetitive rhythm made it stick in people’s heads. The jingle was used for decades in television and radio ads. Even today, many still associate the candy with this tune.
4. Band-Aid “I Am Stuck on Band-Aid Brand”
Alf van Beem on Wikimedia Commons
This jingle was launched in 1975 with music by Barry Manilow. It used repetition to reinforce the brand name. Children singing the line made it especially catchy. It is still considered one of the most effective product jingles.
5. Folgers “The Best Part of Wakin’ Up”
Jo Naylor on Wikimedia Commons
Introduced in 1984, the Folgers coffee jingle became a morning ritual for many viewers. The warm, uplifting music matched the idea of starting the day with coffee. It was used for decades across TV and radio ads. The line is still closely tied to the Folgers brand.
6. Coca-Cola “I’d Like to Buy the World a Coke”
Rundvald on Wikimedia Commons
Released in 1971, this jingle was part of one of Coca-Cola’s most famous campaigns. The commercial featured a multicultural group singing together. It became both a marketing success and a cultural moment. The tune is remembered as one of the most iconic jingles in history.
7. Alka-Seltzer “Plop Plop, Fizz Fizz”
Henk Albert de Klerk on Wikimedia Commons
This jingle first aired in 1951 and described the sound of the product dissolving in water. The rhythm and repetition made it unforgettable. The phrase quickly entered popular culture. Even people who never used Alka-Seltzer often remembered the tune.
8. State Farm “Like a Good Neighbor”
Harvey K on Wikimedia Commons
Barry Manilow wrote this jingle in 1971, and it became one of the longest-running insurance slogans. Its simple melody made it easy to recall in emergencies. The jingle helped build trust in the brand. It continues to be used, though often in updated versions.
9. Toys “R” Us “I Don’t Want to Grow Up”
Andreas Praefcke on Wikimedia Commons
The Toys “R” Us jingle was introduced in 1982 and sung by children in the commercials. It emphasized the fun and playful side of the store. Many who grew up in the 80s and 90s can still recite it. It became part of the chain’s identity until its decline.
10. Meow Mix “Meow Meow Meow”
Daylen on Wikimedia Commons
The Meow Mix jingle debuted in the 1970s and featured cats “singing” the word “meow.” The repetition and humor made it appealing to both adults and children. The tune became strongly linked with the brand. It is still one of the most recognizable pet food jingles.
11. Chili’s “Baby Back Ribs”
Rickywood on Wikimedia Commons
This jingle first appeared in the late 1990s and became a cultural phenomenon. Its smooth, soulful delivery made it stand out among restaurant ads. The phrase “I want my baby back ribs” became widely quoted. It was later revived in updated commercials.
12. Pepsi “You’ve Got a Lot to Live”
Abygail Rampersad on Wikimedia Commons
Launched in 1969, this jingle was part of the “Pepsi Generation” campaign. It targeted young consumers with upbeat music and positive lyrics. The song reflected Pepsi’s focus on youth culture. It helped the brand build its identity during a competitive era.
13. Juicy Fruit “The Taste Is Gonna Move You”
Juicy Fruit on Wikimedia Commons
This chewing gum jingle became popular in the 1980s. Its upbeat, high-energy delivery matched the youthful brand image. The music made it feel exciting and active. It became one of the most memorable gum jingles of its time.
14. Nationwide “Nationwide Is on Your Side”
Ardfern on Wikimedia Commons
This jingle was created in 1965 and has been used in commercials ever since. Its short and simple melody made it effective across TV, radio, and later digital ads. Many performers recorded new versions over the years. It remains the foundation of Nationwide’s branding.
15. Doublemint Gum “Double Your Pleasure, Double Your Fun”
Hephaestos on Wikimedia Commons
The Wrigley company introduced this jingle in 1939. It became associated with the long-running “Doublemint Twins” commercials. The melody reinforced the product’s name in a direct way. It is one of the longest-lasting gum jingles in history.
16. Rice-A-Roni “The San Francisco Treat”
Boereck on Wikimedia Commons
This jingle was introduced in the 1950s and became tied to the brand’s identity. It highlighted the product’s connection to San Francisco. The melody was upbeat and lighthearted. It is still remembered as one of the most regional yet widely known jingles.
17. Pepsi “Joy of Cola”
Dr. Partha Sarathi Sahana on Wikimedia Commons
Released in the 1990s, this jingle featured bright, cheerful music. It was used in commercials starring young celebrities. The line “The joy of Pepsi” was sung in a memorable way. It became one of Pepsi’s most modern jingles.
18. Clairol Herbal Essences “A Totally Organic Experience”
eliazar on Wikimedia Commons
This jingle was introduced in the 1990s alongside commercials highlighting natural ingredients. Its light, catchy rhythm helped reinforce the brand’s identity. Many viewers remembered the melody years after the ads stopped airing. It marked a shift toward marketing natural beauty products.