Budweiser's Super Bowl 60 Commercial: 'American Icons' Celebrates 150 Years of Heartwarming Storytelling
Budweiser's Super Bowl commercials are known for their emotional impact and storytelling. The latest ad for Super Bowl 60, titled "American Icons," features a heartwarming tale of a Clydesdale foal and a bald eagle set to the iconic song "Free Bird" by Lynyrd Skynyrd. The commercial celebrates Budweiser's 150th anniversary and the United States' 250th anniversary, creating a patriotic theme that resonates with viewers. The ad follows the journey of the eagle learning to fly, accompanied by the uplifting music and visuals that tug at the heartstrings.
The adult bald eagle in the commercial is named Lincoln, known for flying during the National Anthem at Philadelphia Eagles' home games. "Free Bird," released by Lynyrd Skynyrd in 1973, remains a popular song at sporting events and was prominently used by Team USA in the 2025 NFL 4 Nations Face-Off. The guitar solo in the song was even ranked No. 8 by Guitar World in 2022, showcasing its enduring popularity and impact on audiences.
Billy Busch, the founder of the Busch Family Brewing & Distilling Company and an heir to the Anheuser-Busch legacy, shared insights into the iconic Clydesdale 8-horse hitch campaign created by his family. The campaign, featuring the eight-horse hitch delivering the first case of Budweiser after Prohibition to the White House, became a symbol of America and a successful marketing strategy. Budweiser's history of memorable commercials, including the Clydesdales playing football and tributes to significant events like the September 11 attacks, highlights the brand's ability to connect with audiences on an emotional level.
As Budweiser continues its tradition of impactful storytelling through commercials like "American Icons," the brand remains a staple in Super Bowl advertising, captivating viewers with its emotional narratives and iconic imagery.