Jim Bean "Back To Basics" Graffiti Ad

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Jul 10, 2020
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This was from a 1990 multi-part magazine ad campaign for Jim Bean whiskey featuring different concepts of "getting back to the basics."

Image Description

The Jim Beam ad features a timeline of graffiti-style slogans from 1940 to 1990, highlighting cultural and political messages through the decades. It ends with a bottle of Jim Beam and the tagline, "You always come back to the basics."

Positive Aspects

This ad cleverly uses historical graffiti to evoke nostalgia and connect Jim Beam to timeless values. The simplicity of the phrase "You always come back to the basics" ties the product to enduring traditions and familiar comforts, making it relatable across generations.

Key Takeaways

  • Timeless Appeal: The ad connects Jim Beam with enduring values and traditions, appealing to a sense of nostalgia.
  • Cultural Journey: It uses iconic slogans to represent different eras, showing societal changes while maintaining a consistent undercurrent of basic human experiences.
  • Simplicity Wins: The straightforward message reinforces the brand's reliability and timelessness.

Additional Insights

Jim Beam’s campaign taps into the power of nostalgia and shared history. By weaving in familiar cultural milestones, it subtly suggests that while trends come and go, some things remain constant—like a good bottle of whiskey. This approach could inspire modern brands to leverage historical connections to strengthen their identity and appeal.

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