Commercial Jingles Mainers Still Sing in Their Heads

Jingles work. They are catchy and easy to repeat. Some jingles in Maine have been around for years and last for decades. The good ones stand the test of time.

Jingles Everywhere

We hear them on TV, radio and online. They’re everywhere. Some are songs and others are catch phrases.

Character Driven Jingles

The characters and personalities add a lot to the jingles like Birdie from Marden’s and Jolly John. Popular places like Funtown has one of the catchiest songs in the state.

Maine Nostalgia

Jingles are part of the culture in Maine. They are nostalgic and connect us to the places we shop and do business.

Still on the Air

There are some really unforgettable jingles that are still heard on the air.

Funtown/Splashtown USA

Funtown/Splashtown USA has been a popular spot for locals and tourists for decades. The activities at the amusement and water park attract people in the summer and the jingle is a big part of it. It used to be sung as “Funtown, Funtown, Funtown, USA” and now it’s “Funtown/Splashtown USA.” It works in part because it’s nostalgic and a summertime anthem.

Marden’s

“I should have bought it when I saw it at Marden’s” is one of the most well known jingles in Maine. People say it all the time in the state. It catches your attention because it’s true. Buy it when you see it because it may be gone next time you come. Many have had that experience and it drives shopping habits and treasure hunting in the discount store. Birdie, the woman connected to the Jingle, was in the ads for years. She also brought a lot of popularity to the song.

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Jolly John

Jolly John Pulisfer was one of the most iconic characters on Maine TV. He owned several big car dealerships in Saco for years. His jingle and catch phrase “I’m not jolly unless you’re happy” was a classic and is still remembered to this day. The expression is simple and one of a kind, driven by a huge personality on Maine television.

Bradley’s

Bradley’s in Presque Isle has one of the most creative catch phrases. The lunchtime crowd gets their food from the deli and eat it in their vehicles. The owner, Mike Cyr, coined the phrase “King of Dashboard Dining.” It is a perfect fit. People hear that on the radio and repeat it back to him at the store. “The Car Wash King” was also a title Cyr has for his many car washes in northern Maine.

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Harley Plumbing and Heating

If you grew up in the Bangor area, you’ll remember “If your toilet will not flush, Harley will be there in a rush… 990-2200.” The military style cadence of the phone number left a lasting impression. It was easy to remember when you had to remember phone numbers. The jingle could be heard almost every night at homes across central Maine.

Heard Forever

Jingles are an identity for businesses in Maine. When they work, they last forever and can still be heard on media outlets all over the state.