For more than half a century, Pepsi has understood that music is a universal language capable of connecting with millions of people. Unlike its direct competitor Coca‑Cola, which traditionally relied on classic jingles and messages of unity, Pepsi positioned itself as the brand of youth, rebellion, and pop culture.
Its advertising strategy has been clear: collaborate with the most influential artists of each generation and use their songs to convey energy, fun, and cultural relevance. This article analyzes how Pepsi has used iconic songs in its campaigns, reviewing decade by decade the most memorable ads and their cultural impact.
🎤 Michael Jackson – “Pepsi Generation” (1984–1989)
In 1984, Pepsi signed a multimillion‑dollar contract with Michael Jackson.
His hit Billie Jean was adapted into the jingle “You’re the Pepsi Generation.”
Ads showed Jackson dancing with young fans, reinforcing Pepsi as the drink of youth.
Impact: Redefined music advertising and marked a turning point in brand‑artist partnerships.
YouTube reference:
🎹 Ray Charles – “You’ve Got the Right One, Baby, Uh‑Huh!” (1991)
Ray Charles starred in a series of Diet Pepsi commercials.
The jingle “You’ve Got the Right One, Baby, Uh‑Huh!” went viral in the early 1990s.
Impact: Added humor and soul, becoming part of pop culture.
🎵 Cindy Crawford – “Just One Look” (1992)
Cindy Crawford appeared in an ad drinking Pepsi while two boys watched in awe.
The soundtrack was Doris Troy’s Just One Look.
Impact: Became one of the most iconic commercials of the 1990s, blending glamour and retro music.
YouTube reference:
🎶 Britney Spears, Beyoncé & Pink – “We Will Rock You” (2004)
One of Pepsi’s most celebrated campaigns.
Set in a Roman coliseum, Britney, Beyoncé, and Pink performed Queen’s anthem We Will Rock You.
Enrique Iglesias appeared as the villain.
Impact: Became a cultural phenomenon, showing the power of combining music, cinema, and advertising.
YouTube reference:
🎧 Cardi B – “More Than Okay” (2019)
Super Bowl ad featuring Steve Carell, Lil Jon, and Cardi B.
Used Cardi B’s hit I Like It to convey energy and fun.
Impact: Reinforced Pepsi’s image as bold and youthful.
YouTube reference:
🌊 Bad Bunny – Summer Campaign (2023)
Bad Bunny starred in a summer‑themed lifeguard Pepsi ad.
Combined reggaeton beats with beach imagery and youth culture.
Impact: Connected with Latin and global audiences, strengthening Pepsi’s urban identity.
YouTube reference:
🎤 The Notorious B.I.G. – Hip Hop Tribute (2023)
Pepsi celebrated 50 years of hip hop with an ad featuring an unreleased track by The Notorious B.I.G.
Impact: Reinforced Pepsi’s deep ties to urban music and respect for cultural heritage.
YouTube reference:
📊 Comparison Table: Pepsi Ads & Iconic Songs
| 1984 | Michael Jackson | “Pepsi Generation” (Billie Jean remix) | Youth, energy |
| 1991 | Ray Charles | “You’ve Got the Right One, Baby” | Humor, soul |
| 1992 | Cindy Crawford + Doris Troy | “Just One Look” | Glamour, Americana |
| 2004 | Britney, Beyoncé, Pink | “We Will Rock You” | Power, pop culture |
| 2019 | Cardi B, Lil Jon, Steve Carell | “I Like It” | Fun, challenger brand |
| 2023 | Bad Bunny | Summer reggaeton track | Youth, lifestyle |
| 2023 | The Notorious B.I.G. | Hip hop tribute | Heritage, authenticity |
Decade‑by‑Decade Evolution
1980s: The Pop Revolution
Michael Jackson redefined music advertising.
Pepsi became a symbol of youth and modernity.
1990s: Diversity and Glamour
Ray Charles added humor and soul.
Cindy Crawford blended fashion and retro music.
2000s: Global Pop
Britney, Beyoncé, and Pink brought Pepsi to the global stage.
Music became cinematic spectacle.
2010s: Urban Culture and Digital Age
Cardi B and Lil Jon connected with digital audiences.
Pepsi embraced irreverence and humor.
2020s: Inclusion and Cultural Heritage
Bad Bunny and The Notorious B.I.G. reinforced ties to Latin music and hip hop.
Pepsi positioned itself as a cultural curator.
Cultural Impact
Diversity: Pepsi showcased artists from different genres and backgrounds, reinforcing inclusion.
Memorability: Iconic songs ensured ads stayed in public memory.
Empowerment: Campaigns like We Will Rock You conveyed strength and authenticity.
Lifestyle branding: Pepsi evolved from a beverage to a cultural symbol.
Expert Analysis
Marketing experts emphasize that Pepsi has successfully adapted to cultural trends. By including iconic songs in its campaigns:
Expanded reach beyond the product.
Created emotional connections with diverse audiences.
Differentiated itself from Coca‑Cola by embracing rebellion and pop culture.
Music allowed Pepsi to build memorable campaigns that remain part of pop culture history.
SEO Keyword Clusters
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Conclusion
Pepsi’s campaigns with iconic songs have shaped advertising history. From Michael Jackson in the 1980s to Bad Bunny and Cardi B today, each ad reflects the cultural evolution of music and youth.
Pepsi doesn’t just sell soda: it sells cultural moments. Its commercials are remembered because they integrate music, stars, and narratives that transcend generations.
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