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Lovely commercial jingle

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)

KFC 1997 Christmas commercial

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?

With A Girl Like YouThe Troggs

The track used in KFC’s UK and Ireland commercial, “Introducing Our New Burritos!” It was released in 1966 by the British rock band The Troggs.

It has been covered by artists such as Dave Sitek and Chriss.

KFC 1995 Christmas commercial

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.

KFC commercial songs: Popular jingle rankings (11–20)

KFC 'HAPPY GATHERING DAY' Version

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.

KFC’s little-known classic “Wa-Katsu Burger” Relaunch Campaign: “Yes! Let’s go eat Wa-Katsu.”

Beautiful SmileKOTETSU

09 Beautiful Smile/SOFFet with Tokyo Junkastic Band
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.

KFC 2009 Commercial

I Love You (Peter Rabbit Theme Song)Inoue Azumi

Azumi Inoue, known for singing various theme songs including tracks from Studio Ghibli works like My Neighbor Totoro and Carrying You, has collaborated with Tamatomica on the song “Kimi ga Daisuki,” which was featured in a KFC commercial.

This song is an original piece for Peter Rabbit, the globally popular rabbit character.

It was selected as the commercial’s theme when KFC collaborated with Peter Rabbit.

Its bright, sparkling melody is sure to put you in a cheerful mood!

KFC 1992 Christmas Commercial

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.