KFC's commercial song. A popular jingle.
When you think of Kentucky, you think of the fast-food chain marked by a logo featuring Colonel Sanders’ face.
In addition to its distinctly seasoned fried chicken, the menu is packed with delicious items like hamburgers, biscuits, and coleslaw.
We often see Kentucky’s commercials on TV, and they pop up even more frequently during the Christmas season.
That naturally makes you curious about the music used in those commercials.
Some of you might even be reminded of Kentucky the moment you hear that Christmas song.
In this article, we’ll introduce a roundup of Kentucky’s commercial songs—starting with that classic tune, as well as tracks used in past ads and songs featured in overseas commercials.
KFC commercial songs: Popular commercial tunes (1–10)
My Old Kentucky HomeStephen Collins Foster
This is the song known in Japanese as “My Old Kentucky Home.” When it comes to Kentucky commercials, many people probably think of this tune first.
Even if it doesn’t ring a bell right away, you’re sure to recognize it the moment you hear it and think, “Oh, that song!” The lyrics evoke the beautiful scenery of one’s hometown, old memories, farewells to home and friends—reminiscing about a life set in Kentucky.
It’s the original Kentucky commercial song that can even bring to mind the aroma of Kentucky Fried Chicken.
BLUE HEAVENSazan Ōrusutāzu
This is the memorable 40th single, released in 1997.
The song, which depicts the end of a bittersweet love echoing at summer’s close, makes you want to slap your knee and say, “That’s Kuwata for you!” It’s a must-listen even if you’re not a fan.
It’s kind of mysterious how such a bittersweet breakup song could also fit a Kentucky Fried Chicken commercial.
The title “BLUE HEAVEN” literally means “blue heaven,” and while it might suggest a song set by the sea, there’s also an interpretation that the night sky, blurred by tears, looked blue.
How does it sound to you?
Tonight is a Hearty PartyTakeuchi Mariya
The 25th single by Mariya Takeuchi, produced by Tatsuro Yamashita.
It’s a perfect party song, seemingly crafted by working backward from the idea of a cozy family home gathering.
Even with its upbeat Eurobeat foundation, it’s brimming with Mariya Takeuchi’s signature flavor—proof of producer Yamashita’s skill.
An ideal track for a home party where everyone shares Kentucky Fried Chicken.
It also drew attention for mentioning Takuya Kimura, aka “Kimutaku,” near the end of the lyrics.
Beautiful SmileKOTETSU
This commercial cheerfully promotes a little-known KFC staple, the Wa-Katsu Burger, through a lively song.
SOFFet’s track “Beautiful Smile” has been rearranged with lyrics to spotlight the Wa-Katsu Burger, and KOTETSU delivers it with an upbeat performance.
Since the song is also well known as the theme for Takasu Clinic’s commercials, the fact that this ad was released by Takasu Clinic’s PR team is another noteworthy point.
The lyrics introduce the appeal of the Wa-Katsu Burger, while the brisk sound conveys a sense of anticipation and excitement for its flavor.
KAN’s Christmas SongKAN
This commercial conveys the idea that fried chicken is an essential Christmas menu item and encourages people to choose KFC for the holiday, all while showcasing the festive atmosphere of the season.
It highlights how KFC supports a joyful Christmas and introduces limited-edition gifts to emphasize the fun.
The song that further amplifies the merriment depicted in the visuals is “KAN’s Christmas Song.” Its a cappella, voice-only arrangement is striking, and its hymn-like structure evokes both the solemnity and the joy of Christmas.
HAPPY GATHERING DAYYamashita Tatsuro
This is the song used in a 2010 commercial for KFC’s 40th anniversary campaign.
As the title “Happy Gathering Day” suggests, many people will find comfort in its lyrics that invite everyone to come together and have fun.
The words feel like a gentle letter to family back home or to friends you’ve grown distant from—something only Tatsuro Yamashita could capture.
Why is it that his voice is so soothing? It’s a perfect match for the image of everyone gathering to enjoy Kentucky Fried Chicken together.
Song of Love ~I Truly Love You~Chonan Kan
This is a commercial that introduces Kentucky Fried Chicken’s Korean-style items, themed after the variety show “Chonan Kang,” in which Tsuyoshi Kusanagi appeared as Chonan Kang.
In it, Kusanagi conveys, in Korean, how enjoyable KFC’s delicious offerings are, giving the whole piece a bright, cheerful feel.
Further enhancing the lively atmosphere of the footage is the song “Ai no Uta ~Chonmal Saranghaeyo~,” released under the name Chonan Kang.
It gives the impression of bustling dance music, and its simple Korean lyrics sung in a joyful manner help amplify the excitement.
To you, the one and only in the worldInagaki Junichi
KFC has locations all across the country and is loved in each area, with commercials that reflect local flavors having been aired.
The song used in a commercial broadcast exclusively in the Tohoku region in 1992 was Junichi Inagaki’s “Sekai de Tatta Hitori no Kimi ni.” It was released as a single in 1992 on the same day as the album “SKETCH of HEART.” The breezy sound that evokes the seaside is striking, and the lyrics, which convey affection, give a warm feeling.
sogoodAI
It seems that the artist AI is such a huge fan of Kentucky Fried Chicken that she ended up taking on its theme song.
With that much passion poured into it, there’s no way the song won’t lift your spirits! The title “sogood” would roughly correspond to “Nice!” in Japanese.
It’s a phrase with a curious ring to it—something you can casually say to someone feeling down or to patch things up with friends after an awkward moment.
The music video, which stitches together short dramas, is heartwarming no matter which story you look at.
Original song
This commercial highlights how you can enjoy a great-value set of Original Chicken and Furi-Furi Fries, conveyed through Rosa Kato’s expressions and presence.
By clearly showing her eating, you can really feel the portion size, which in turn communicates just how good a deal this set is.
The video captures that irresistible urge to keep eating, and the original song makes that feeling stand out even more.
With straightforward lyrics that express both the munching onomatopoeia “mushamusha” and the happiness that follows, sung over a light, buoyant sound, it paints a picture of everyday joy.