'Start Me Up' has licenced for a new ad campaign by Ford Motor Company

DETROIT (Ford Press Release) - The Ford Motor Company has licensed the Rolling Stones' 1981 hit "Start Me Up" for its new ad campaign, which kicked off with a 30-second spot just after midnight on New Year's Day (January 1).

Ford and its advertising agency, J. Walter Thompson, have produced seven ads using "Start Me Up," which will air during Friday's (January 3) Fiesta Bowl, throughout the NFL playoffs and Super Bowl, and on programs such as The Simpsons (which featured the voices of Mick Jagger and Keith Richards on this year's season premiere), NYPD Blue, The Practice, and 60 Minutes.

Radio versions of the ad have also been produced, and it will be featured prominently at Ford exhibitions at the upcoming L.A. Auto Show in Los Angeles (Saturday (January 4) through January 12) and North American International Auto Show in Detroit (January 11 to 20).

In a statement, Ford Division President Steve Lions said, "'Start Me Up' really gets your blood pumping. We picked it to send the message that Ford's back - with a vengeance."

This marks the first time the Stones have licensed a song for an automotive commercial, though other classic rockers, including Led Zeppelin and the Who, have licensed hits to car companies for their ads. "Start Me Up" was previously used for Microsoft's Windows 95 ad campaign for a reported $12 million (Ford's fee has not been revealed).

The Stones get back to work on Wednesday (January 8) when the Licks tour kicks off its 2003 run in Montreal.