8 Classic Rock Songs from the 70s and 80s That Became TV Commercial Staples

Television commercials have a knack for bringing old songs back to life. Some tunes have become iconic not just because of their time on the charts, but also for their place in advertising. Here are eight classic rock songs from the 70s and 80s that have become unforgettable thanks to TV commercials.

“Start Me Up” by The Rolling Stones

“Start Me Up” by The Rolling Stones is an exhilarating song used widely in TV ads. One famous example is the 1995 Windows 95 launch. The song’s energetic beat and iconic guitar riff made it perfect for promoting innovative technology. The commercial paired the excitement of the new operating system with the rock-and-roll vibe of the song, creating a memorable advertisement that still resonates today.

Over the years, “Start Me Up” has continued to be used in various commercials, each time bringing its high-energy spirit to the forefront. This classic track’s ability to build anticipation and excitement works brilliantly to capture the attention of viewers.

“Born to Be Wild” by Steppenwolf

“Born to Be Wild” by Steppenwolf is synonymous with freedom and adventure. It’s no surprise that this song has been featured in many car commercials. One notable example is Jeep’s advertisements, which emphasize the rugged, adventurous spirit of their vehicles.

The song’s electrifying rhythm and lyrics perfectly match the visuals of off-road driving and outdoor exploration. Each ad aims to tap into the viewer’s desire for excitement and the open road, making “Born to Be Wild” an excellent choice for these campaigns.

“Dream On” by Aerosmith

Aerosmith’s “Dream On” is a rock anthem that speaks to perseverance and aspirations. This powerful message was harnessed in a 2000 commercial for Buick. The ad focused on innovation and pushing boundaries, mirroring the themes of the song.

“Dream On” has been used in various other ads, each time drawing on its sense of ambition and hope. The song’s iconic status and universal appeal make it a perfect choice for commercials looking to inspire and motivate.

“We Will Rock You” by Queen

Queen’s “We Will Rock You” is a song known for its powerful beat and chant-like lyrics. Pepsi used this anthemic track in an ad campaign to highlight the strength and determination of gladiators. The stomping rhythm aligned perfectly with the visuals of hard-hitting action.

This song’s powerful energy helps to create an atmosphere of triumph and strength, making it a go-to choice for other commercials aiming to inspire and energize viewers.

“Go Your Own Way” by Fleetwood Mac

Fleetwood Mac’s “Go Your Own Way” was a natural fit for Isuzu’s commercials promoting individuality and freedom on the road. The song’s driving rhythm and heartfelt lyrics resonated with viewers seeking independence.

Its blend of rock and emotion made it unforgettable in advertising, amplifying the message of forging your own path. For many, the ad reignited interest in Fleetwood Mac’s legendary album, Rumours.

“Back in Black” by AC/DC

AC/DC’s “Back in Black” became a standout track for Walmart’s campaign emphasizing reliability and strength. The song’s powerful riff and bold energy struck a chord with viewers, perfectly complementing the brand’s message.

This classic hit not only showcased AC/DC’s influence but also introduced their timeless sound to a new generation. Its use in the ad demonstrated how rock could amplify themes of resilience and dependability.

“Should I Stay or Should I Go” by The Clash

The Clash’s “Should I Stay or Should I Go” became the centerpiece of a Levi’s commercial that celebrated youthful rebellion and choice. The song’s infectious rhythm and punk-inspired attitude added a fresh edge to the brand’s campaign.

By featuring this track, Levi’s managed to tap into a cultural moment while reinforcing their image as a brand for free spirits. The ad highlighted the song’s timeless appeal, making it resonate with both older fans and younger audiences.

“Eye of the Tiger” by Survivor

Survivor’s “Eye of the Tiger,” known for its association with the Rocky films, found a second life in a Starbucks ad campaign. Its motivational tone and intense energy made it ideal for showcasing hard work and perseverance.

Even outside its original context, the song retained its power, encouraging viewers to push forward. Starbucks effectively harnessed its universal message of determination, reminding everyone of the classic hit’s enduring spirit.