An Atari in disguise.
“Play up to 371 video games!”
We’ve worked our way to the end of the decade this week – here’s two spots from November of 1979. Firstly, a commercial for the Sears Video Game System. This one looks like an Atari because it is (officially licensed and re-branded).
Second, a spot for Thrifty drug stores featuring Henna hair products and a memorable jingle.
Previously on 70s Spots: Sizzler & Sambo’s (1978)
$3.99 for steak & crab at the sign of the purple cow.
“A price that won’t pinch your wallet.”
Continuing with an eating theme and rolling into 1978 – here’s a spot for Sizzler featuring a crab claws and sirloin deal. Narration by Michael Bell. The commercial aired in February of ’78.
Following that, another spot for Sambo’s restaurant featuring warm narration by Tom Bosley (Happy Days). Mangia!
Previously on 70s Spots: Kraft Margarine & Hunt’s Tomato Paste (1977)
Spreads 36 more biscuits per pound. It’s a darn miracle!
“That’s a lot of good eatin’!”
Our theme today is eating in a ’77 style. To go along with that cobbled together idea we have a Kraft Miracle Margarine commercial from September of 1977.
Directly after that, you can enjoy a Hunt’s Tomato Paste spot featuring a visit to the Roman Colosseum. This one aired in May of ’77 but the copyright mark goes all the way back to 1974. They got some good mileage out of that paste. Have a wonderful Friday!
Previously on 70s Spots: Sanka Coffee (Robert Young) & Kawasaki Motorcycles (1976)
The Sanka doctor knows best!
“Maybe it’s the coffee you should be drinking.”
1976 time! Here’s a Sanka decaf coffee spot starring Robert Young of Marcus Welby, M.D. and Father Knows Best fame. He’s not a coffee drinker, but he plays one on TV. Or something. The commercial aired in October of 1976.
Next, another sing-along spot for Kawasaki motorcycles featuring a nudist colony, a bear, and the “Let the Good Times Roll” song. This one aired in January of ’76 (and therefore was likely produced in ’75).
Previously on 70s Spots: Raid & Monroe Shocks ‘Indy 500’ (1975)
RAID!?!
“The toughest Raid we’ve ever made.”
Two spots from July of 1975 on display today. First, we have one for Raid bug spray. After that, Al Unser races the Indy 500 on Monroe Shocks.
Previously on 70s Spots: GE Clock Radio (Sammy Davis Jr.) & Ultra Ban 5000 (1974)
‘Right on, GE!’
“Dig the buttons!”
Another hip and happening spot for General Electric today featuring Sammy Davis Jr.. This one features the latest in digital clock radios and aired in November of 1974. Who knew Sammy was so into electronics design and research?
After that, a “hidden camera” commercial for Ultra Ban 5000 antiperspirant from earlier in the year (March of ’74).
Previously on 70s Spots: Sunbeam Shaver (Chuck Connors) & Midas (Vic Tayback, 1973)