“Pink Moon” – Nick Drake
When Volkswagen selected Nick Drake’s “Pink Moon” for their 1999 Cabrio commercial, few could have predicted the profound effect it would have on both the artist’s legacy and music fans worldwide. Originally released in 1972, “Pink Moon” was largely overlooked during Drake’s lifetime, as the singer-songwriter’s gentle style struggled for mainstream attention. The haunting melody and melancholic lyrics struck a chord with viewers, creating a serene and dreamy atmosphere that matched the ad’s night drive visuals perfectly. After the commercial aired, sales of Nick Drake’s music soared by an astonishing 400%, according to market reports at the time. Streaming numbers also surged as a new generation discovered Drake’s catalog. Critics and fans credit this campaign with reviving Drake’s career posthumously, helping his albums achieve gold status years after his death. The emotional connection fostered by the ad demonstrated how advertising could breathe new life into forgotten classics.
“1234” – Feist
Feist’s “1234” became an overnight sensation after its inclusion in Apple’s 2007 iPod Nano commercial, a campaign celebrated for its vivid colors and infectious energy. Before the commercial, “1234” was an indie favorite but had not yet crossed into the mainstream. Apple’s advertising magic propelled the song into the global spotlight, with the single quickly climbing to number 8 on the Billboard Hot 100. The ad’s playful visuals mirrored the song’s bouncy rhythm, making it instantly memorable and shareable. Feist’s album sales experienced a massive boost, and the song became a staple on radio and playlists around the world. The exposure even earned Feist several award nominations and made her a household name. This campaign stands as a clear example of how the right song, paired with a striking ad, can change an artist’s career trajectory almost overnight.
“Lust for Life” – Iggy Pop
Iggy Pop’s “Lust for Life” found itself in the unlikely setting of a Royal Caribbean Cruises commercial in 2001—a surprising choice, given the song’s raw, rebellious lyrics. The upbeat rock track played over images of family-friendly fun and tropical getaways, creating an ironic and unforgettable juxtaposition. This bold pairing sparked curiosity and conversation, driving a 300% spike in downloads within weeks of the ad’s release. The song, which had a cult following but limited mainstream exposure, suddenly reentered music charts in multiple countries. The campaign highlighted how brands can subvert expectations and use classic songs in bold, unconventional ways to create memorable moments. Fans old and new revisited Iggy Pop’s catalog, and “Lust for Life” became a staple on party playlists and commercials for years to come.
“Mad World” – Gary Jules (cover)
When the haunting cover of “Mad World” by Gary Jules was featured in the 2006 Gears of War video game advertisement, audiences were captivated by its emotional resonance. Originally a Tears for Fears song, Jules’ version brought a somber, introspective mood to the intense visuals of the game’s trailer. The unexpected pairing struck a chord, and the song climbed the charts once more, even reaching number 1 in several countries. Fans praised the song’s ability to convey vulnerability and depth, turning the ad into an unforgettable moment in advertising history. Music sales and streams for the cover soared, and both the game and the track received critical acclaim for their synergy. This success story illustrates how video game ads can become a powerful platform for musical rediscovery, introducing classic tunes to new generations of listeners.
“She’s a Rainbow” – The Rolling Stones
Apple’s choice to use “She’s a Rainbow” by The Rolling Stones for their 2018 iMac campaign sparked a wave of nostalgia and renewed interest in this psychedelic classic. The ad featured vibrant, swirling visuals that matched the song’s playful, kaleidoscopic energy, making it instantly recognizable and irresistible. Streams and digital sales of the song shot up, and “She’s a Rainbow” reentered charts around the world, decades after its original release. Fans and critics alike marveled at how seamlessly the song fit into a modern tech context, showing the timelessness of the Stones’ music. The campaign also inspired social media trends and playlist additions, proving that a well-placed ad can bridge generational gaps. The song’s unexpected return to the cultural spotlight reinforced the enduring power of classic rock and effective marketing.
“Beggin’” – The Four Seasons / Måneskin cover
“Beggin’” by The Four Seasons first enjoyed a renaissance thanks to a Pepsi ad in 2007, but it was the Italian rock band Måneskin’s electrifying cover that truly made the song a global phenomenon in the 2020s. Måneskin’s version caught fire on TikTok, with millions of users incorporating it into viral dance challenges and video edits. This social media explosion drove the song to the top of streaming charts worldwide, while also boosting interest in the Four Seasons’ original. Advertisers quickly jumped on the trend, featuring both versions in campaigns for everything from sneakers to soft drinks. The “Beggin’” phenomenon demonstrates how the intersection of ads and social media can create a feedback loop, propelling songs across generations and continents. The track’s versatility and irresistible beat have made it a go-to choice for brands seeking to inject energy and nostalgia into their campaigns.
“Heroes” – David Bowie
David Bowie’s anthem “Heroes” received a digital-age revival when Microsoft used it to launch Windows XP in 2002. The ad’s inspirational message and sweeping visuals were perfectly matched by Bowie’s soaring vocals, introducing the song to millions of new listeners. Following the campaign, digital downloads of “Heroes” increased by 200%, and the track found its way onto a new generation’s playlists. The partnership between Bowie’s timeless optimism and Microsoft’s innovation created a memorable and emotional connection for audiences. Tech journalists praised the campaign for its boldness, and Bowie’s catalog saw a sustained bump in sales for months after the ad aired. This campaign is often cited in industry circles as a benchmark for how classic songs can be recontextualized for the modern era.
“Sail” – AWOLNATION
“Sail” by AWOLNATION initially struggled to break through, but its fortunes changed dramatically after appearing in a 2013 Under Armour ad campaign. The song’s aggressive, electronic sound provided the perfect backdrop for high-energy sports visuals, creating an adrenaline-fueled atmosphere that resonated with viewers. The commercial’s success translated directly to the charts, with “Sail” climbing into the top 10 in several countries and becoming a staple on workout playlists. Sports broadcasts and highlight reels adopted the track en masse, further boosting its exposure and longevity. The band credited the ad with giving their song a “second life,” and it soon became synonymous with motivation and intensity. This story underscores the powerful relationship between music, sports, and brand identity.
“Feel Good Inc.” – Gorillaz
Gorillaz’s “Feel Good Inc.” enjoyed a major resurgence after being featured in Motorola’s ROKR mobile phone commercial in 2005. The ad showcased the song’s infectious groove alongside the cutting-edge technology of the time, making both the product and the music seem fresh and exciting. Sales of the single rebounded, and streaming numbers saw a measurable uptick during the campaign’s run. Radio stations put the track back into heavy rotation, and Gorillaz benefited from renewed attention as they prepared to launch their second album. The campaign demonstrated how the right partnership between a brand and a song can amplify both, generating buzz and excitement that carries over into broader pop culture. Fans still associate “Feel Good Inc.” with innovation and youthful energy, thanks in part to its memorable use in advertising.
“Bohemian Like You” – The Dandy Warhols
The Dandy Warhols’ “Bohemian Like You” was transformed from a modest alt-rock tune into an international hit after Vodafone featured it in a 2001 commercial across Europe. The ad’s playful, irreverent tone matched the song’s catchy hooks, making it an instant earworm for millions of viewers. Almost overnight, the track shot up the charts in multiple countries, becoming the band’s most successful single by far. Streaming and album sales soared as new fans discovered their music, and the song became a cultural touchstone for early-2000s advertising. The band themselves credited the ad for opening doors to new audiences and expanding their touring opportunities. This case perfectly illustrates how a single ad placement can change the trajectory of a song—and a band’s career—forever.
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