(Budweiser Whassup / Courtesy Anheuser-Busch)

Beer commercials have been a significant presence in television advertising for decades, skillfully mixing humor, iconic characters, and memorable slogans that have ingrained themselves in our pop-cultural landscape.

Here are ten timeless beer commercials that have left a lasting impression.

Budweiser – “Whassup?” (1999)

One of the most iconic beer commercials, Budweiser’s “Whassup?” campaign became a cultural phenomenon. The simple greeting between friends quickly caught on, becoming a popular catchphrase.

Budweiser – “Wassup 8 Bit” (2020)

Budweiser revisited their classic “Whassup?” ad with a twist, creating an 8-bit version for the quarantine era. It was a nostalgic nod to the original, appealing to both old and new audiences.

Budweiser – Clydesdales “Respect” (2002)

Following the events of September 11th, Budweiser delivered a poignant salute that was broadcast only once during Super Bowl XXXVI. This homage, displaying their iconic Clydesdales bowing in front of the NYC skyline, still resonates deeply with audiences due to its significant emotional weight.

Bud Light – “Real Men of Genius” (1998-2007)

A revered ad series that humorously spotlighted ordinary folks as unsung heroes, this campaign is well-known for its overdramatic narrations. Each spot celebrated quirky traits or activities, exemplified by titles like “Mr. Really Really Bad Dancer.”

Miller Lite – “Great Taste, Less Filling” (1970s-1980s)

Miller Lite’s slogan became one of the most recognizable in beer advertising history. The commercials often featured celebrities and athletes debating whether the beer’s best attribute was its great taste or its lower calorie content. In 2024, Miller Lite revived this iconic campaign with a modern twist, showcasing an all-star ensemble.

Coors Light – “Love Train” (2003)

This commercial utilized the iconic track “Love Train” by The O’Jays to unify individuals in celebration, all while enjoying frosty Coors Light beers. The advertisement showcased the communal enjoyment of beer, presenting a pleasant and convivial atmosphere. A modern take on this classic can be seen in 2024 featuring LL Cool J, accessible here.

Guinness – “Surfer” (1999)

The acclaimed Guinness “Surfer” advertisement is frequently regarded as one of the top commercials ever produced. It employed a majestic black-and-white aesthetic to depict surfers on waves that morph into galloping horses, representing the strength and anticipation encapsulated in a flawless pint of Guinness.

Heineken – “The Entrance” (2011)

Heineken’s “The Entrance” featured a suave individual captivating attention as he made an extravagant entry at a social gathering, charming various attendees in an elegant and unforgettable manner. The advertisement became popular due to its chic aura and engaging soundtrack.

Dos Equis – “The Most Interesting Man in the World” (2006-2018)

Dos Equis introduced the suave and adventurous “Most Interesting Man in the World,” whose legendary exploits and witty sayings made the commercials instantly memorable. His catchphrase, “Stay thirsty, my friends,” became widely known.

Old Milwaukee – Will Ferrell Super Bowl Ad (2012)

In an unexpected twist, Will Ferrell starred in this deliberately low-budget Super Bowl commercial for Old Milwaukee that aired only in select local markets. The bizarre and humorous ad featured Ferrell enjoying an Old Milwaukee in slow motion, adding to its quirky charm.

Posted by: AmericanCraftBeer.com August 9, 20240