19 Classic TV Commercials That Captured the Spirit of the Times
Television commercials are like time capsules, capturing the essence of their era in mere seconds. These miniature marvels of marketing not only sell products but often mirror societal trends, humor, and values. From catchy jingles to memorable slogans, the best commercials stay with us long after they’ve aired.
In this list, we explore 19 classic TV commercials that stood out and became iconic. Each entry offers a glimpse into the cultural landscape of its time, showing us how advertising evolved and how it influenced the world around it.
1. Coca-Cola’s “I’d Like to Buy the World a Coke” (1971)
In a world that often felt divided during the early 70s, Coca-Cola’s commercial ‘I’d Like to Buy the World a Coke’ symbolized unity and peace. The ad featured a group of people from different backgrounds standing together on a hill, singing about harmony.
The commercial was more than just a promotion of a beverage; it was a cultural statement. The simple yet powerful message resonated with viewers, making it one of the most memorable ads of all time.
This commercial’s catchy jingle and inclusive imagery captured the optimistic spirit of the era, leaving an indelible mark on advertising history.
2. Apple’s “1984”
Apple’s “1984” was a groundbreaking moment in advertising, premiering during the Super Bowl. The ad depicted a dystopian future dominated by conformity, until a heroine shatters the status quo with a dramatic hammer throw.
Directed by Ridley Scott, this commercial introduced the Macintosh computer, promising a new era of personal computing. The imagery was bold, and the message was clear: Apple stood for innovation and individuality.
This ad not only captured attention but also set a high standard for Super Bowl commercials, influencing how technology was marketed in the years to come.
3. Wendy’s “Where’s the Beef?”
Wendy’s ‘Where’s the Beef?’ commercial took the airwaves by storm in 1984. Featuring three elderly women scrutinizing a paltry hamburger, only one of them, Clara Peller, demands to know, ‘Where’s the beef?’
The phrase became an instant catchphrase, symbolizing a demand for substance over superficiality. It was a clever critique of competitors’ offerings and solidified Wendy’s reputation for quality.
The humorous delivery and relatable message resonated with a generation of TV viewers, turning a simple question into a national catchphrase and a successful advertising campaign.
4. Nike’s “Just Do It”
The ‘Just Do It’ campaign from Nike, launched in 1988, became a rallying cry for athletes and non-athletes alike. This commercial emphasized empowerment, showing individuals from all walks of life pushing their physical limits.
The simplicity of the slogan, combined with powerful visuals of athletic perseverance, created an emotional connection with viewers. It encouraged people to overcome obstacles and pursue their dreams.
This campaign not only boosted Nike’s brand image but also redefined sports advertising, promoting an active lifestyle and inspiring millions to get moving, regardless of their athletic ability.
5. Old Spice’s “The Man Your Man Could Smell Like”
Old Spice’s ‘The Man Your Man Could Smell Like’ commercial became a viral sensation in 2010. Starring the charismatic Isaiah Mustafa, the ad combined humor, wit, and a touch of absurdity.
By directly addressing the audience, the commercial broke the fourth wall, making it engaging and memorable. The swift transitions between fantastical scenarios were both entertaining and visually captivating.
This innovative approach not only rejuvenated the Old Spice brand but also demonstrated the power of humor and creativity in modern advertising, appealing to both men and women with its clever storytelling.
6. Budweiser’s “Wassup?”
In the late 90s and early 2000s, Budweiser’s ‘Wassup?’ commercial series captured the laid-back, humorous vibe of the time. Featuring friends greeting each other with the exaggerated ‘Wassup?’ the ads quickly became a cultural phenomenon.
The simplicity and relatability of the commercials contributed to their viral success. They immortalized a casual expression of friendship that resonated with viewers worldwide.
By tapping into everyday interactions, Budweiser created an ad campaign that was both entertaining and impactful, cementing its place in pop culture and advertising history.
7. Marlboro’s “Marlboro Man”
Debuting in the 1950s, the ‘Marlboro Man’ campaign stands as one of the most iconic and controversial in advertising history. This commercial featured a rugged cowboy embodying masculinity and freedom, enticing viewers with the allure of the Wild West, while smoking a cigar.
Despite growing health concerns surrounding smoking, the imagery was compelling and succeeded in reshaping Marlboro’s brand identity. The cowboy figure became synonymous with the cigarette brand, driving its global recognition.
While controversial today, the campaign’s influence on advertising strategies and its ability to create a powerful brand image remains undeniable, reflecting the era’s cultural attitudes.
8. Energizer’s “Keeps Going and Going”
Energizer’s ‘Keeps Going and Going’ campaign introduced an enduring icon in advertising: the Energizer Bunny. First appearing in the late 80s, this pink, sunglasses-wearing rabbit became a symbol of stamina and persistence.
The commercial cleverly portrayed the Bunny outlasting competitors, reinforcing the message of long-lasting battery power. Its unexpected appearances in different scenarios added humor and surprise.
The Bunny’s relentless energy and catchy slogan have made it a memorable fixture in advertising, illustrating how a simple concept can effectively convey a product’s unique selling proposition and stick in consumers’ minds.
9. Cadbury’s “Gorilla Drummer”
‘Gorilla Drummer’ commercial from 2007 became an instant classic with its delightful absurdity. Featuring a gorilla passionately drumming to Phil Collins’ ‘In the Air Tonight,’ the ad was both unexpected and entertaining.
This creative approach prioritized emotional engagement over direct product promotion, leaving viewers intrigued and amused. The gorilla’s human-like intensity added to the charm.
By breaking traditional advertising norms, Cadbury successfully captured attention and sparked conversations, proving that sometimes the most memorable ads are the ones that take risks and embrace the unconventional.
10. Taco Bell’s “Yo Quiero Taco Bell”
In the late 90s, Taco Bell’s ‘Yo Quiero Taco Bell’ campaign featured a charming Chihuahua with a big personality. The dog’s catchy phrase, meaning ‘I want Taco Bell,’ became an instant hit, adding a playful flair to the brand.
This clever use of humor and a memorable mascot made the commercials enjoyable and highly shareable. The Chihuahua became a cultural icon, synonymous with the fast-food chain.
While the campaign eventually ended, its impact on advertising demonstrated the effectiveness of character-driven storytelling and catchy catchphrases in building brand identity.
11. Pepsi’s “The Joy of Cola”
The ‘Joy of Cola’ campaign by Pepsi in the late 90s featured a series of commercials that resonated with youthful exuberance and fun. With catchy tunes and vibrant visuals, these ads celebrated the simple joys of drinking Pepsi.
Featuring young stars like Hallie Eisenberg, the commercials combined music and humor to create an uplifting experience. The playful tone and energetic performances captured the essence of carefree enjoyment.
This campaign helped reinforce Pepsi’s image as a youthful and vibrant brand, appealing to a younger audience and leaving a lasting impression with its joyful and engaging content.
12. Mentos’ “The Freshmaker”
The ‘Freshmaker’ campaign in the 90s was a delightful series of commercials celebrating spontaneity and creativity. Each ad depicted everyday challenges turned into fun adventures with the help of Mentos.
The quirky and upbeat commercials used catchy jingles and humorous scenarios, making them memorable and entertaining. The light-hearted approach resonated with viewers, promoting Mentos as a catalyst for fresh ideas.
These commercials became a cultural touchstone, illustrating how a little candy could inspire creativity and fun, reinforcing the brand’s playful and innovative image in the marketplace.
13. McDonald’s “You Deserve a Break Today”
McDonald’s ‘You Deserve a Break Today’ campaign in the early 70s set a new standard for fast-food advertising. The commercials depicted cheerful scenes of families enjoying meals, emphasizing the notion of taking a well-deserved break.
The catchy jingle and relatable scenarios positioned McDonald’s as a place of joy and relaxation, appealing to everyday consumers looking for an enjoyable dining experience.
By focusing on customer satisfaction and happiness, this campaign solidified McDonald’s brand as a go-to destination for families.
14. Maxell’s “Blown Away Guy”
‘Blown Away Guy’ commercial from the 80s is an iconic representation of high-fidelity sound. The ad featured a man being ‘blown away’ by the sheer audio power emitted from his speakers.
This visual metaphor effectively communicated Maxell’s commitment to quality and performance. The striking image of the man and the dramatic effect became synonymous with the brand’s promise of superior sound.
The commercial’s simplicity and impact left a lasting impression, illustrating how powerful imagery and creativity can convey a compelling message without uttering a single word.
15. Sony Bravia’s “Colour Like No Other”
Sony Bravia’s ‘Colour Like No Other’ campaign is a masterclass in visual storytelling. The 2005 commercial featured vibrant paint explosions cascading through a city, creating a mesmerizing spectacle of color.
This artistic approach emphasized the television’s superior color quality, capturing the imagination of viewers and setting a new standard for visual advertising. The use of slow-motion and striking visuals resonated deeply.
By prioritizing aesthetics over traditional product showcases, Sony Bravia’s ad demonstrated the power of creativity in conveying a product’s unique attributes, leaving an unforgettable impression with its breathtaking and artistic execution.
16. Reebok’s “Terry Tate: Office Linebacker”
‘Terry Tate: Office Linebacker’ campaign from 2003 is a hilarious take on workplace efficiency. The commercials featured Terry Tate, a fictional linebacker, enforcing office rules with athletic tackles.
The juxtaposition of sports and office settings created a comedic effect that resonated with audiences. It highlighted Reebok’s focus on performance and added a unique twist to workplace behavior.
This creative campaign effectively combined humor and brand messaging, demonstrating how unconventional ideas can capture attention and entertain, while reinforcing Reebok’s image as a brand that champions athleticism in everyday life.
17. Campbell’s “Soup is Good Food”
This campaign from the 80s emphasized warmth, comfort, and nourishment. The commercials depicted cozy family moments, showcasing the soup as a staple of home-cooked goodness.
The heartfelt messaging resonated with audiences seeking comfort and simplicity, positioning Campbell’s as a trusted provider of wholesome meals. The nostalgic imagery appealed to emotions.
By focusing on the emotional and sensory experiences of enjoying a warm bowl of soup, this campaign solidified Campbell’s place in households, reinforcing the idea of soup as a comforting and nurturing food choice.
18. Calvin Klein’s “Nothing Comes Between Me and My Calvins”
Calvin Klein’s provocative ‘Nothing Comes Between Me and My Calvins’ campaign in the 80s featured Brooke Shields and sparked controversy with its bold tagline. The ads highlighted youthful allure and confidence, pushing boundaries of fashion advertising.
The minimalist design and daring message resonated with a generation seeking self-expression and individuality. It redefined denim as a statement of style.
This campaign’s ability to captivate and challenge norms left a lasting impact on fashion marketing, illustrating how provocative imagery and messaging can create a powerful and influential brand identity.
19. Michelin’s “Baby in Tire”
Finally, Michelin’s ‘Baby in Tire’ campaign from the 80s is a poignant reminder of safety and reliability. The commercials featured a baby nestled inside a tire, symbolizing protection and care.
This powerful imagery conveyed the message that Michelin tires offer unparalleled safety for families. The emotional appeal resonated with parents and safety-conscious consumers.
By prioritizing safety and trust, Michelin’s campaign reinforced its commitment to quality, becoming a memorable icon in automotive advertising.