Buzz
Even if you don’t consider yourself a Fanilow, there’s no doubt you’ve had one of Barry Manilow’s memorable jingles stuck in your head. And no, I’m not talking about “Copacabana” or “Mandy.” Back in the 1970s, Manilow crafted, performed, or both wrote and performed some of the most unforgettable jingles ever. A few of these tunes have become so associated with the brands they represent that they’re still airing more than three decades later. Here’s a look at some of his most iconic (advertising) hits:
1. Band-Aid, “Stuck on Band-Aid”
Manilow composed the music and even performed in a youthful, playful voice for one of the commercials.
2. State Farm, “Like a Good Neighbor”
This iconic tune, still featured in State Farm commercials today, was both written and performed by Manilow. However, he didn’t profit much from it—he only received a flat payment of $500.
3. Stridex, “Give Your Face Something to Smile About”
For his contributions to campaigns like this one, Manilow was honored with an honorary Clio Award in 2009, one of the highest accolades in the advertising world.
4. KFC, “Grab a Bucket of Chicken”
Manilow didn’t write this upbeat commercial promoting how Kentucky Fried Chicken can brighten your day, but he does perform it at many of his concerts.
5. McDonald’s, “You Deserve a Break Today”
There has long been speculation about whether Manilow wrote this jingle—he even seems to acknowledge it during an appearance on Windy City Live. “That was the granddaddy of all of them. That was the first big one,” he said. What he means is that it marked his big breakthrough in the jingle industry: According to Billboard, he only performed in one of the commercials. (But not this particular one, sorry.) Despite its massive success, Manilow isn’t particularly fond of McDonald's food. “I had one [Big Mac]. It gave me gas.”
6. Pepsi, “Feelin’ Free”
This is another jingle that Manilow performed but didn’t write. (This version is obviously not Manilow, so you'll have to imagine his smooth voice.) However, he wasn’t entirely loyal to Pepsi. He also recorded a jingle for Dr Pepper called “The Most Original Soft Drink Ever,” written by Randy Newman.
Unlike many celebrities who distance themselves from their commercial work, Barry embraces his iconic advertising background. Here he is performing a medley of his most memorable commercial theme songs:
