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Yael Naim – New Soul
The Apple MacBook Air commercial in 2008 was a stroke of marketing genius, not just for its innovative product but for its choice of soundtrack. Yael Naim’s New Soul played in the background as the laptop slid effortlessly out of a manila envelope. The simplicity of the ad resonated with viewers, and so did the song. Its lighthearted melody and fresh vibe perfectly matched the innovative spirit of the MacBook Air. This commercial catapulted Yael Naim into the global music scene, turning New Soul into a viral sensation. Her career was never the same, as the song became synonymous with the sleek, innovative tech it promoted.
José González – Heartbeats
In 2005, Sony Bravia aired an ad that featured thousands of colorful balls bouncing down the streets of San Francisco, but it was José González’s haunting acoustic cover of Heartbeats that truly struck a chord with audiences. The visual spectacle of the bouncing balls was mesmerizing, but it was the song that lingered in people’s minds long after the ad ended. The commercial introduced González to a massive international audience, driving his album sales and raising his profile significantly. His gentle, soulful rendition of Heartbeats became an indie-folk anthem, thanks to the unforgettable imagery and soundscape of the Sony Bravia ad.
Feist – 1234
Apple has a knack for choosing songs that become instant hits, and Feist’s 1234 is a prime example. The 2007 iPod Nano commercial featured playful visuals of dancing silhouettes, perfectly complemented by the upbeat and joyful rhythm of Feist’s song. The commercial became an iconic representation of Apple’s brand, and 1234 quickly climbed the charts. The exposure from the ad brought Feist into the mainstream music scene, with her album The Reminder receiving significant attention. The song’s catchy melody and the vibrant energy of the ad made it a memorable moment in advertising history.
Nick Drake – Pink Moon
Sometimes, a commercial can breathe new life into an old song, as was the case with Nick Drake’s Pink Moon. Originally released in 1972, the song was relatively unknown until it was featured in a Volkswagen Cabrio ad in 2000. The ad’s serene imagery, combined with Drake’s melancholic tune, resonated deeply with audiences. The commercial sparked a renewed interest in Nick Drake’s music, resulting in a dramatic increase in album sales. Pink Moon’s success post-commercial brought Drake’s work back into the spotlight, solidifying his legacy as a profound musical talent.
The Dandy Warhols – Bohemian Like You
Vodafone’s early 2000s ad campaign featuring The Dandy Warhols’ Bohemian Like You transformed the song from an indie favorite to a global hit. The upbeat, carefree track was the perfect fit for the ad’s playful imagery, making it a standout moment in advertising. The commercial’s wide reach, especially in Europe, introduced the band to a new audience. The song’s irresistible hook and catchy rhythm became synonymous with the brand, helping The Dandy Warhols gain international recognition and elevating their career in the process.
The Ting Tings – Shut Up and Let Me Go
Apple’s 2008 iPod commercial featuring The Ting Tings’ Shut Up and Let Me Go was a masterclass in pairing music with visuals. The song’s punchy beats and rebellious energy matched the sleek, dynamic visuals of the iPod dancers perfectly. The ad captured the attention of viewers worldwide, propelling The Ting Tings into the spotlight. The song quickly became a chart-topping hit in several countries, marking the duo as a significant force in the indie pop scene. The commercial’s success showcased the power of Apple’s advertising in shaping music trends.
Phoenix – 1901
Phoenix was already making waves in France, but their hit 1901 gained them major attention in the US thanks to a Cadillac commercial in 2009. The song’s infectious beat and smooth indie vibe were perfectly aligned with the ad’s luxurious imagery. The exposure from the commercial brought Phoenix a new level of fame, leading to a surge in popularity. Their album Wolfgang Amadeus Phoenix received global recognition, cementing their status as a prominent band in the indie music world. The commercial’s success highlighted how the right ad can propel a song to international acclaim.
The Caesars – Jerk It Out
The Caesars’ Jerk It Out became a standout hit thanks to its inclusion in Apple’s 2005 iPod Shuffle commercial. The ad’s sleek visuals of dancing silhouettes paired perfectly with the song’s irresistible rhythm and catchy hook. The commercial’s success led to massive radio play and a significant boost in the band’s career. The song became synonymous with the iPod Shuffle campaign, exemplifying Apple’s ability to elevate lesser-known tracks to iconic status. The ad’s impact demonstrated how a well-chosen song could enhance a brand’s image and create memorable marketing moments.
The Power of Music in Advertising
These songs illustrate the transformative power of commercials in the music industry. A well-crafted ad can turn an obscure track into an iconic hit, giving artists global exposure and changing the trajectory of their careers. Whether it’s a quirky indie tune or a soulful ballad, the right commercial can elevate a song to new heights, making it the soundtrack of a generation.
Besides founding Festivaltopia, Luca is the co founder of trib, an art and fashion collectiv you find on several regional events and online. Also he is part of the management board at HORiZONTE, a group travel provider in Germany.
