Have you ever wondered about the catchy tune in that cigar commercial, especially the one featuring the iconic song "Hey Big Spender"? Cigar commercials often use music to create a mood, and this particular pairing is quite memorable. Let's dive into the history of the song, its use in advertising, and why it resonates so well with the image of cigars.

The Origins of "Hey Big Spender"

"Hey Big Spender" wasn't originally written for a cigar commercial, guys. The song actually comes from the 1966 Broadway musical Sweet Charity. Composed by Cy Coleman with lyrics by Dorothy Fields, it's a sassy, brassy number sung by dance hall girls trying to entice wealthy men to spend their money. Imagine a smoky, dimly lit club filled with women hoping to catch the eye of a generous benefactor. That's the scene Sweet Charity paints. The lyrics are playful and suggestive, hinting at the transactional nature of the relationships. The song's rhythm is infectious, making it a hit both on stage and beyond. Think about the bold horns and the confident vocals – it's a song that struts its stuff. Over the years, "Hey Big Spender" has been covered by numerous artists, each bringing their own flair to the classic tune. From Shirley Bassey's powerful rendition to versions by Peggy Lee and even the Pussycat Dolls, the song has proven its versatility and enduring appeal. It's a testament to the songwriting that "Hey Big Spender" can be reinterpreted in so many ways while still maintaining its core essence of playful seduction and financial enticement. When you hear those first few notes, you instantly know what song it is, and that's the mark of a truly iconic piece of music. The success of Sweet Charity helped propel "Hey Big Spender" into the spotlight, but it was the various recordings and performances that cemented its place in popular culture. The song's themes, while rooted in a specific time and place, continue to resonate with audiences today. It speaks to the dynamics of power, money, and relationships in a way that is both entertaining and thought-provoking. So, next time you hear "Hey Big Spender," remember its Broadway origins and the story it tells of dance hall girls and the men they hope to attract.

Why "Hey Big Spender" and Cigars?

So, why is "Hey Big Spender" such a good fit for a cigar commercial? It all boils down to the image and lifestyle that cigars often represent. Cigars are frequently associated with luxury, success, and a certain level of sophistication. Think about it: you often see them in movies and TV shows as a symbol of wealth and power. The song, with its themes of spending and indulgence, complements this image perfectly. When you see someone enjoying a cigar in a commercial, it's not just about the tobacco; it's about the entire experience. It's about taking the time to savor something luxurious, about celebrating success, and about enjoying the finer things in life. "Hey Big Spender" reinforces this message, creating a sense of aspiration and desire. The music sets the tone, suggesting that the viewer, too, can partake in this lifestyle of affluence and enjoyment. The song also has a certain swagger to it, which aligns well with the confident and self-assured image that many cigar smokers project. It's a way of saying, "I've made it, and I'm going to enjoy the fruits of my labor." Moreover, the use of "Hey Big Spender" in a cigar commercial creates a sense of nostalgia. The song is a classic, and it evokes a certain era of glamour and sophistication. This can be particularly appealing to older consumers who associate cigars with a more traditional lifestyle. For younger viewers, the song can represent a sense of old-school cool, adding to the allure of cigar smoking. In essence, the pairing of "Hey Big Spender" and cigars is a strategic marketing choice. It's about creating an emotional connection with the viewer, associating the product with positive feelings and aspirational ideals. The song's message is clear: indulge yourself, enjoy the moment, and don't be afraid to spend a little money on the things that make you happy. And what better way to do that than with a fine cigar?

Memorable Cigar Commercials Using the Song

There have been several cigar commercials that have used "Hey Big Spender" to great effect. These commercials often feature scenes of opulent settings, successful individuals, and, of course, the stars of the show: the cigars themselves. One example might show a group of friends relaxing in a luxurious lounge, enjoying cigars and drinks while discussing business deals or celebrating a victory. The song plays in the background, creating an atmosphere of success and camaraderie. Another commercial might feature a single individual, perhaps a CEO or entrepreneur, sitting in their office, contemplating their next move while savoring a cigar. The song underscores the sense of accomplishment and ambition. What makes these commercials so memorable is the way they combine the visuals with the music. The images reinforce the themes of wealth, success, and indulgence that are already present in the song. It's a powerful combination that can leave a lasting impression on the viewer. The use of "Hey Big Spender" also adds a touch of humor to these commercials. The song is inherently playful, and it suggests that the individuals in the commercials are not taking themselves too seriously. They are successful, yes, but they also know how to have fun and enjoy life. This can make the commercials more relatable and appealing to a wider audience. Furthermore, the song's familiarity helps to grab the viewer's attention. People are more likely to pay attention to a commercial if they recognize the music. It creates an instant connection and makes the commercial more memorable. In short, the use of "Hey Big Spender" in cigar commercials is a smart marketing tactic. It's a way of associating the product with positive emotions, aspirational ideals, and a sense of fun. And it's a testament to the enduring power of music in advertising.

The Impact on Cigar Sales

Does the use of "Hey Big Spender" in cigar commercials actually impact sales? While it's difficult to quantify the exact impact, it's safe to say that it plays a significant role in shaping consumer perceptions and driving demand. Advertising, in general, is all about creating a desire for a product, and music is a powerful tool for achieving this. By associating cigars with positive emotions and aspirational ideals, commercials that use "Hey Big Spender" can make the product more appealing to potential customers. The song's message of indulgence and enjoyment resonates with people who are looking to reward themselves or celebrate a special occasion. It suggests that buying a cigar is not just about purchasing a product; it's about buying into a lifestyle. The use of "Hey Big Spender" can also help to differentiate a particular brand of cigars from its competitors. In a crowded marketplace, it's important to stand out, and using a recognizable and memorable song is one way to do this. The song creates a unique brand identity and makes the product more memorable to consumers. Moreover, the nostalgic appeal of "Hey Big Spender" can be particularly effective in targeting older consumers who have fond memories of the song. These consumers may be more likely to purchase a product that is associated with their youth and with a sense of tradition. For younger consumers, the song can represent a sense of old-school cool, adding to the allure of cigar smoking. In conclusion, while it's impossible to say exactly how much "Hey Big Spender" contributes to cigar sales, it's clear that it plays a significant role in shaping consumer perceptions and driving demand. The song's message of indulgence, enjoyment, and success aligns perfectly with the image that cigar companies are trying to project. And its nostalgic appeal helps to create a connection with consumers of all ages.

The Enduring Appeal of Cigars and Classic Tunes

The combination of cigars and classic tunes like "Hey Big Spender" is a testament to the power of marketing and the enduring appeal of both. Cigars, with their association with luxury and success, and classic songs, with their ability to evoke emotions and memories, create a powerful synergy that resonates with consumers. This pairing is not just about selling a product; it's about selling a lifestyle. It's about creating a sense of aspiration and desire, and about tapping into our emotions and memories. The use of classic tunes in advertising is a common tactic, but it's particularly effective when the song aligns perfectly with the product being advertised. In the case of cigars and "Hey Big Spender," the fit is almost seamless. The song's message of indulgence, enjoyment, and success complements the image that cigar companies are trying to project. And its nostalgic appeal helps to create a connection with consumers of all ages. Moreover, the combination of cigars and classic tunes can help to create a sense of tradition and sophistication. Cigars have a long and rich history, and they are often associated with a certain level of refinement. By pairing them with classic songs, advertisers can reinforce this image and appeal to consumers who appreciate the finer things in life. In short, the enduring appeal of cigars and classic tunes is a result of careful marketing, a deep understanding of consumer psychology, and a bit of luck. It's a combination that has proven to be highly effective, and it's likely to continue to resonate with consumers for years to come. So, next time you hear "Hey Big Spender" in a cigar commercial, take a moment to appreciate the artistry and the marketing savvy that went into creating that memorable pairing.