Which McDonald's slogan became the chain's first major advertising jingle in 1971?

“You Deserve a Break Today” became McDonald's first major advertising jingle in 1971.

The campaign was created by the advertising agency Needham Harper Steers and used a memorable melody to connect McDonald's with a short, enjoyable pause in a busy day. Its wording made the brand sound welcoming and convenient rather than focusing only on a particular menu item.

The slogan became one of the most recognized lines in American advertising. Television and radio versions repeated the phrase musically, helping it remain memorable across different media. The campaign also contributed to the idea that McDonald's could function as an everyday treat or break.

It is often confused with later McDonald's lines such as “You, You’re the One” or “I'm Lovin' It.” Those belong to different periods. “You Deserve a Break Today” is specifically associated with the major 1971 campaign and its widely remembered jingle.