The Jingles We Still Know by Heart

The Jingles We Still Know by Heart

Pull up a chair and sit awhile

July 6, 2026

Dear Friend:

Today I was eating a leftover hot dog from a Fourth of July cookout when, out of nowhere, I found myself singing, "Oh, I wish I were an Oscar Mayer Wiener…"

Do you remember that jingle?

It made me smile because I hadn't thought about it in years. One little bite of a hot dog, and suddenly I was remembering television commercials from my childhood.

Then there was also: "My bologna has a first name…"  The little boy sitting with his fishing pole in one hand and his Bologna sandwich in the other. Then at the end of the commercial he asked: “how’s that?” I always wondered how many takes it took before they finally got the perfect commercial.

Another popular jingle was the Coca Cola Jingle: “I’d like to buy the world a Coke” It became so popular that it was later released as a full-length pop song. That jingle was later used in a Christmas commercial.

I also remembered the Chevrolet jingle: "See the USA in your Chevrolet..." GM recently brought that jingle back in its commercials, and hearing it instantly made me smile.

It also brought back memories of helping my brother-in-law work on cars. I loved every minute of it, although my mother wasn't nearly as thrilled when I came home covered in grease and grime.

Years later, I had the opportunity to drive my classmate's 1969 Chevrolet Chevelle SS. He asked if I knew how to drive a competition clutch. I admitted I didn't, although I knew how to drive a manual transmission. Then he smiled and said, "Would you like to drive it?" I didn't hesitate. It was one of the most exciting driving experiences I've ever had.

Those little jingles were more than clever advertising. They became part of the soundtrack of our childhood. Decades later, we can still sing them without missing a word.

Funny how a simple hot dog, an old commercial, or a familiar song can unlock memories we thought we'd forgotten.

Tell me the commercial jingle you still know by heart. I'd love to hear which one still makes you smile.

Until next time, stay well, stay safe, and stay connected to those you love.

Be well,

Emma

Emma is the voice behind Sharing with Seniors, where every story starts with a memory. Through stories of family, friendships, music, traditions, hometowns, and life's simple pleasures, she invites readers to pull up a chair, stay awhile, and remember the moments that have shaped their lives.