…And it probably happened a little late in the game. For the first time in nearly four decades of existence, The Doors catalog is finally open to ad agencies for products, TV, film, and soundtracks.
But, there’s a story that’s not being told. Of course, everyone knows about the success that Cadillac has reaped with its use of Led Zeppelin’s "Rock and Roll" – the song relaunched their tired brand and has helped to persuade younger demos that Caddies aren’t just for AARP members. Just a few years ago, the average age of a guy walking into a Cadillac dealership was 63.

- Radio DOGE – Are We RIFing The Wrong Employees? - February 24, 2025
- Hey Radio: Go BIG Or Go Home! - February 21, 2025
- Why Small Businesses Matter…To Radio - February 20, 2025
Incorrect. Artists licensing their music to commercials DOES demean the song.
The process can sell a burnish the advertiser’s brand plus sell a ton of CDs, but it also most definitely adds a layer of meaning to song and artist which can ultimately be damaging to both. Such a TV commercial often functions as a music video for the song, one over which the musician(s) involved do not generally have creative control.
Simply because licensing can make “lots of money” for the band does not mean that it’s not also demeaning to the song.
At least Barry Manilow was was upfront about his status as a jingle composer.
Flickerlink: One link, endless possibilities!