Beyonce Knowles sparks 'Crazy Love' in new Pepsi TV ad

NEW YORK (Pepsi press release) - Beyonce Knowles, one of today's most celebrated entertainers, is back in a new Pepsi TV spot debuting on Wednesday, July 16, during the premier of a new, star-studded weekly music series, Pepsi Smash, on The WB at 9 p.m. (EST).

Knowles' latest Pepsi commercial, "Directions," is set to her single "Crazy in Love," from her debut solo album, "Dangerously in Love." The new ad features Knowles rolling up on an unsuspecting gas station attendant. Stunned and speechless, the young attendant musters just enough composure to get Knowles back on her way.

"Beyonce's popularity is off the charts and her success in both music and movies has made her one of the most influential entertainers in Hollywood today," said Dave Burwick, senior vice president and chief marketing officer of Pepsi-Cola North America. "We're thrilled to bring her new commercial to the airwaves on the debut of Pepsi Smash just as her single is topping the pop charts."

The commercial will debut on an exciting, one-of-a-kind prime time television show titled "Pepsi Smash" airing on The WB. Pepsi Smash is a one- hour show featuring musical performances from some of the biggest artists across all musical genres in front of a live audience. The first of six weekly telecasts will include live performances by Monica, The Black Eyed Peas, Evanescence and The Ataris. One week later, Beyonci, along with four other musical acts, will electrify the Pepsi Smash audience during the program's second telecast on July 23.

"Pepsi Smash is bringing music back to prime time by reinventing the type of TV programming that once captivated a generation of music fans," said Pepsi's Burwick. "Partnering with The WB to develop this TV show is a great extension of our longstanding tradition of reaching out to consumers through music."

Produced by Joel Gallen of Tenth Planet Productions, Pepsi Smash also will feature a chart rundown and music news.