Microsoft Commercials

Some Classic Commercials from 1997

As a technology enthusiast and a collector of vintage electronics, I recently stumbled upon a treasure trove of VHS tapes in my basement, and among them were some classic Microsoft commercials from 1997. These commercials, which aired during the heyday of Microsoft's dominance in the personal computer market, provide a fascinating glimpse into the company's marketing strategy and the cultural zeitgeist of the late 1990s.

The Rise of Microsoft

The 1990s were a transformative decade for the technology industry, and Microsoft played a pivotal role in shaping its evolution. The company's flagship product, Windows, had become the dominant operating system for personal computers, and Microsoft was aggressively expanding into new markets, such as gaming consoles and internet services. The commercials from this era reflect Microsoft's confidence and ambition, with ads emphasizing the power and versatility of Windows and positioning Microsoft as a visionary company at the forefront of the digital revolution.

Video Clip

Here's a couple of Microsoft clips that I found:

YouTube Shorts

Check out some of the 1-min shorts that I posted in May

YouTube Shorts is a new feature from YouTube that allows users to create and watch short, vertical videos. The videos are limited to 60 seconds in length, and they can be used to share anything from funny moments to educational content.

YouTube Shorts was created in response to the popularity of other short-form video platforms like TikTok and Instagram Reels. YouTube hopes that Shorts will help it compete with these platforms and attract a younger audience.

So far, YouTube Shorts has been well-received by users. The platform has already been downloaded over 100 million times, and it is one of the most downloaded apps in the world.

Check out some of the YouTube shorts that I posted in May, 2023:

https://www.youtube.com/@ChristopherRyan/shorts

Cynthia Oti

Special Replay of

On February 6, 2000, KSFO radio aired a special replay of the popular show "Financial Fitness." The show was hosted by Cynthia Oti, a financial expert who died in the Alaska Airlines Flight 261 crash on January 31, 2000.

The special replay of "Financial Fitness" featured Oti's most popular segments, including her advice on saving for retirement, investing for the future, and managing debt. Oti's insights were as relevant and helpful in 2023 as they were when she first shared them with listeners.

The special replay of "Financial Fitness" was a fitting tribute to Cynthia Oti. It was a chance for her fans to hear her wise advice one last time and to remember her as a talented financial expert and a wonderful person.

Here are some of the tips that Cynthia Oti shared on "Financial Fitness":

• Start saving for retirement early. Even if you can only save a small amount each month, it will add up over time.
• Invest for the future. There are many different investment options available, so do your research and choose one that is right for you.
• Manage your debt. If you have debt, make a plan to pay it off as quickly as possible.
• Get help if you need it. There are many resources available to help you with your financial planning.

Cynthia Oti's advice is still relevant and helpful today. If you are looking for guidance on your financial journey, be sure to check out the special replay of "Financial Fitness."

Sling TV

Cheapest Way to watch the Celtics without Cable

Game 7 of the Eastern Conference Series is coming up, and if you don't have cable TV, you're probably wondering how you can watch it. Well, there's a great option that's both affordable and easy to use: Sling TV.

Sling TV is a live TV streaming service that offers a variety of channels, including ESPN, TNT, and ABC. This means that you'll be able to watch Game 7 of the Eastern Conference Series without having to pay for cable TV.

Sling TV is also very affordable. You can start a subscription for as low as $35 per month. This includes access to over 50 channels, including ESPN, TNT, and ABC.

In addition to being affordable, Sling TV is also very easy to use. You can watch Sling TV on your TV, computer, or mobile device. You can also record shows and movies to watch later.

If you're looking for a way to watch Game 7 of the Eastern Conference Series without having to pay for cable TV, then Sling TV is the perfect option for you. It's affordable, easy to use, and offers a variety of channels.

Here are the steps on how to subscribe to Sling TV:

• Go to the Sling TV website and create an account.
• Choose a Sling TV plan. Sling TV offers three plans: Sling Orange, Sling Blue, and Sling Orange + Blue.
• Select your channels. Sling TV offers a variety of channels, including ESPN, TNT, and ABC.
• Start watching! Once you've subscribed to Sling TV, you can start watching your favorite shows and movies.

Here are some of the benefits of subscribing to Sling TV:

• Affordable: Sling TV is one of the most affordable live TV streaming services on the market.
• Easy to use: Sling TV is very easy to use. You can watch Sling TV on your TV, computer, or mobile device.
• Variety of channels: Sling TV offers a variety of channels, including ESPN, TNT, and ABC.

If you're looking for a way to watch Game 7 of the Eastern Conference Series without having to pay for cable TV, then Sling TV is the perfect option for you. It's affordable, easy to use, and offers a variety of channels.

Talknet: Sally Jessy Raphael Radio Show

Rebroadcast of the 1986 Show

Radio Talknet, hosted by Sally Jessy Raphael, was a popular radio show in the 1980s. Broadcasting across the United States, Raphael's show was well-known for its engaging conversations and discussions on a wide range of topics. In this blog post, we'll look back at the legacy of Sally Jessy Raphael and her show, Radio Talknet, in 1986.

The Rise of Sally Jessy Raphael

Sally Jessy Raphael was a pioneer in the talk show industry. She began her career in radio broadcasting in the 1960s and then transitioned to television in the 1980s. Her show, The Sally Jessy Raphael Show, became one of the most successful daytime talk shows in the 1990s. However, before her television career took off, Raphael was already making waves in the radio world with her show, Radio Talknet.

Inside Radio Talknet 1986

In 1986, Radio Talknet was in its fourth year of broadcasting. The show was known for its unique format, which allowed listeners to call in and participate in the discussion. Raphael covered a wide range of topics, from politics to relationships, and everything in between. Her show was a platform for people to have meaningful conversations about issues that were important to them.

One of the most memorable moments from Radio Talknet in 1986 was when Raphael hosted a discussion on the topic of sexual harassment. This was a groundbreaking topic for the time, and Raphael's show provided a safe space for listeners to share their stories and experiences.

Sample Show Clip

This is a nine-minute clip of Sally helping some get their life back on track.

Sally Jessy Raphael's Legacy

Sally Jessy Raphael's impact on the radio and television industry cannot be overstated. She paved the way for other talk show hosts, and her unique style of broadcasting inspired a generation of listeners. Radio Talknet was a testament to her talent and passion for creating engaging content that resonated with people.

Conclusion

Sally Jessy Raphael and Radio Talknet 1986 will always be remembered as a pivotal moment in the history of talk radio. Raphael's show was a voice for the voiceless and a platform for people to have important conversations. Today, we can look back and appreciate the legacy of Sally Jessy Raphael and the impact she had on the world of broadcasting.

Bruins Celtics Radio Bumper

2024 Game Day Radio Bumper

If you?re a Boston Celtics or Boston Bruins fan, you know that there?s nothing quite like the excitement of game day. And nothing gets you more pumped up for the action than that iconic audio bumper that plays before every game. In this blog post, we?ll take a closer look at the audio bumper and what makes it so special.

The Celtics Audio Bumper

The Boston Celtics audio bumper is a classic piece of sports sound design. The clip features a deep, booming voiceover that announces the team and various Celtics moments, followed by a thrilling instrumental track that builds to a crescendo. The bumper perfectly captures the excitement and energy of game day and gets fans fired up for the action.

The Bruins Audio Bumper

Not to be outdone, the Boston Bruins audio bumper is just as iconic as the Celtics? version. The bumper features a similar voiceover, but with a slightly more menacing tone that suits the rough-and-tumble world of hockey. The instrumental track is just as thrilling as the Celtics?, but with a harder edge that reflects the intensity of the sport.

The Power of Audio Branding

One of the reasons the Boston Celtics and Bruins audio bumpers are so effective is because they?re great examples of audio branding. Audio branding is the use of sound to create a distinct, recognizable identity for a brand or product. The Celtics and Bruins bumpers are instantly recognizable to fans, and they help create a sense of excitement and anticipation for the games.

The Video

Conclusion

The Boston Celtics and Bruins audio bumpers are iconic pieces of sports sound design. The deep, booming voiceovers and thrilling instrumental tracks perfectly capture the excitement and energy of game day, and they?re instantly recognizable to fans. Whether you?re a Celtics or Bruins fan, nothing gets you more pumped up for the action than that iconic audio bumper.

Classic Commercials Collection

More Interesting Commercials in my Collection

Ah, the nostalgia of finding old VHS tapes in the back of the closet! Recently, I stumbled across some tapes that I had recorded off of the television years ago, and I was amazed at the variety of commercials I found on them.

From the ad for Delta Airlines that promised great service with the tag line "Delta is ready when you are" to Cinular Wirless commercial with some retro phones, these commercials brought back many memories. One of my favorites was an Ad for SBC Pacific Bell DSL. That one was so cool!

It was so much fun to watch these commercials and remember the days when life was simpler and commercials were much more creative. Some of the ads were really clever and even funny, like the one for the Volkswagen that featured the Roman Aqueduct.

As I watched these commercials, I was reminded of how much has changed over the years. Nowadays, commercials are more about product placement and making a statement than about being creative and entertaining. It's a shame that some of the creativity has been lost from today's commercials, but it was great to take a trip down memory lane and see some of the old ads.

It was fascinating to watch these old commercials and see how different they were from today's ads. It was like taking a look back in time, and it was a great reminder of how far we have come. It was fun to relive some of the old memories that these commercials brought back, and it was a great way to spend an afternoon!

Here are a couple that are featured in this collection:

Delta Airlines

In the 1980s, Delta Airlines launched a commercial that featured the slogan "Delta is ready when you are." The ad featured a series of vignettes showcasing Delta's commitment to being there for their customers whenever and wherever they needed them.

The commercial begins with a group of businesspeople leaving a meeting and rushing to catch a flight. As they arrive at the airport, a Delta plane is already waiting for them, ready to take off. The ad then features a diverse range of passengers, from families with children to elderly couples, all arriving at the airport and being greeted by Delta's friendly and efficient staff.

What makes the commercial effective is the way it emphasizes Delta's commitment to customer service and convenience. By showcasing the airline's ability to be ready and waiting for their customers, the ad effectively communicates Delta's brand promise and builds trust and loyalty among potential and existing customers.

The commercial's slogan, "Delta is ready when you are," perfectly captures the spirit of the airline's brand and values. It conveys a sense of reliability and responsiveness, reassuring customers that Delta is always there to meet their needs and provide a seamless travel experience.

Volkswagen Roman Aqueduct commercial

Volkswagen is known for creating memorable and creative advertisements, and their Roman Aqueduct commercial is no exception. The ad, which aired in 2020, features a group of Roman citizens who are tasked with building an aqueduct to bring water to their city. As they struggle to transport heavy blocks of stone to the construction site, a modern Volkswagen Passat drives by effortlessly, leaving the Romans in awe.

The commercial is a clever way of showcasing the Passat's impressive engineering and efficiency. By juxtaposing the ancient methods of construction with the modern car, Volkswagen highlights the car's ability to tackle difficult terrain and obstacles with ease.

Watch the Commercials

0:00 Introduction
0:10 Delta Airlines (1980s Commercial)
0:41 Drugstore.com 
1:12 SBC Pacific Bell (Kid Trying to pick up a girl)
1:41 Las Vegas
2:12 John Ascuaga's Nugget Reno
2:42 Good Guys! (Reasons to Buy Now)
3:11 Cingular Fall Collection (Phone cost $19.99!)
3:42 Volkswagan (Roman Aquduct)

1998 Black Friday Commercials

The Rise of the Technology Commercials

The year was 1998, a time of rapid technological advancement and cultural change. From the emergence of the internet to the rising popularity of mobile phones, the world was transforming at an unprecedented pace. Amidst this whirlwind of progress, a number of iconic commercials emerged that captured the spirit of the era. Let's take a look at four of these classic ads: the Circuit City commercial, the Mervyn's California Penguins ad, the Sprint PCS commercial, and the Toys R Us Black Friday sale promotion.

Circuit City

For many, the best deal of the 1998 Black Friday season was the one offered by Circuit City - the Packard Bell Fully-Featured Computer for only $599.99 after a $360 rebate.

This amazing deal was featured in a commercial that was aired during the 1998 holiday season. The commercial showed the Packard Bell Fully-Featured Computer along with a series of features that made it the perfect choice for any budget-conscious shopper.

The Packard Bell Fully-Featured Computer was equipped with a Pentium II processor, 32 megabytes of RAM, a 3.2 gigabyte hard drive, and a 15" monitor. It also came with a 56 Kbps modem, a CD-ROM drive, a 3.5" floppy drive, and a variety of software programs including Windows 98, Microsoft Office 97, and Netscape Navigator.

Mervyn's California Penguins

On November 27th, 1998, Mervyn's California made history by becoming the first department store in the state to open its doors on the day after Thanksgiving, better known as Black Friday. But what made this particular opening truly remarkable was the fact that it featured a parade of penguins marching around San Francisco!

The parade was organized by Mervyn's California in partnership with the San Francisco Zoo and the Aquarium of the Bay. It was an event that was both memorable and unique, and it was made even more special by the fact that over 200 of the store's employees and family members took part in the parade.

Sprint PCS

In 1998, Sprint PCS released a now iconic commercial featuring a man talking to Saint Peter at the gates of heaven. The ad begins with the man nervously approaching Saint Peter and asking if he is on the list to get in. Saint Peter responds that the man is not on the list, but he can still get into heaven if he makes a donation to Ronald McDonald House Charities. The man agrees to make a donation and is rewarded with a free Ericsson 768 digital PCS phone, courtesy of Sprint PCS.

This commercial perfectly captured the spirit of the late 90s, a time of rapid technological advancement and increased focus on charitable giving. The promotion offered by Sprint PCS was a win-win situation for everyone involved. Customers were able to get a top-of-the-line phone for free with a small donation, while also supporting a great cause.

Toys R Us

The 1998 Toys R Us Black Friday commercial was a memorable one, featuring a group of adults being transported to the store in their beds. The ad begins with the adults tucked into their beds, sleeping peacefully. Suddenly, the beds begin to move and the adults wake up to find themselves cruising down the street, headed straight for Toys R Us.

As they approach the store, the adults eagerly jump out of their beds and rush inside, ready to take advantage of the incredible deals offered on Black Friday. This commercial perfectly captured the excitement and frenzy of the holiday shopping season, while also highlighting the lengths that people will go to get the best deals.

The use of adults in the commercial was a clever tactic that allowed Toys R Us to tap into the nostalgia and childhood memories of its target audience. The idea of being transported to the store in your bed is a childhood dream come true, and this commercial was able to evoke that sense of excitement and wonder.

Overall, the 1998 Toys R Us Black Friday commercial featuring adults in their beds being transported to the store was a fun and memorable advertisement that perfectly captured the spirit of the holiday season. Even decades later, it remains a classic and a testament to the power of effective marketing.

The Commercials

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, these four classic commercials from 1998 offer a fascinating glimpse into a time of rapid technological advancement and cultural change. From the rise of electronics retail to the importance of charitable giving, these ads captured the spirit of the era and continue to be remembered fondly by those who lived through it.

TiVo Intro

Turning on the Tivo after many years

For many people who grew up in the early 2000s, the TiVo startup sound and intro video are nostalgic reminders of a time when DVRs were just starting to become mainstream. These distinctive features were an integral part of the TiVo experience, which was known for revolutionizing the way people watched television. In this blog post, we'll take a closer look at the TiVo startup sound and intro video and explore why they were so memorable.

The TiVo Startup Sound

The TiVo startup sound is a short, distinctive melody that plays when the device is turned on. It was composed by musician and composer Jonathan Sacks, who was tasked with creating a sound that would be instantly recognizable and memorable. Sacks drew inspiration from a variety of sources, including classic video game soundtracks and the work of minimalist composers like Philip Glass.

The resulting sound is a simple, yet catchy melody that features a combination of electronic and orchestral elements. The TiVo startup sound became so iconic that it was even parodied in popular culture, appearing in TV shows like The Simpsons and Family Guy.

The TiVo Intro Video

In addition to the startup sound, TiVo also had an intro video that played when the device was turned on. The video featured colorful, abstract imagery that was meant to evoke the feeling of being transported to a new world of entertainment.

The TiVo intro video was often praised for its creative use of imagery and sound, which helped to set the device apart from other DVRs on the market. Some people even looked forward to watching the intro video each time they turned on their TiVo, as it was a fun and engaging way to start their TV viewing experience.

Introduction Video

This is a short clip of turning on my TiVo Series 1 for the first time in 10+ years. This was edited for time as the "Almost There" was a very long pause.

Night Time time-lapse using GoPro

Using default GoPro Settings

The GoPro is a popular camera choice for capturing action-packed moments, but it is also capable of taking stunning time-lapse photos. While time-lapse photography is commonly associated with daytime scenes, the GoPro is also capable of capturing beautiful night-time time-lapses. In this blog post, we will discuss how to use the GoPro to take nighttime time-lapse photos, and some tips for getting the best results.

Sample Night-Time Video

Setting up your GoPro

Before we dive into the specifics of taking nighttime time-lapse photos, it's important to ensure that your GoPro is set up correctly. First, make sure that your camera is set to the time-lapse mode. Next, adjust the interval settings to determine how often you want the camera to take a photo. For nighttime time-lapse photography, a longer interval between shots is recommended to allow for the capture of more light. Finally, set up your camera in a secure location with a clear view of the night sky.

Adjusting camera settings

One of the most important aspects of taking nighttime time-lapse photos with a GoPro is getting the camera settings right. For starters, you'll want to set the ISO to a higher value to allow for more light to be captured. However, be careful not to set it too high, as this can result in a grainy or noisy image. Additionally, adjusting the exposure settings can help to capture more or less light depending on your preference. It's important to experiment with different settings to determine what works best for your specific scene.

Final tips for success

To ensure the best results when taking nighttime time-lapse photos with a GoPro, there are a few final tips to keep in mind. First, be patient. Nighttime time-lapse photography requires a long exposure time, so it's important to be prepared to wait for the camera to capture enough images. Second, consider using a tripod or other stabilizing device to keep the camera steady and prevent any unwanted movement. Finally, be creative with your composition. Experiment with different angles, zoom levels, and framing to capture a truly unique and stunning time-lapse photo.

Conclusion

While the GoPro is known for capturing action-packed moments, it's also a powerful tool for capturing beautiful time-lapse photos, even at night. With the right camera settings and a little patience, you can capture stunning time-lapse photos of the night sky and other nighttime scenes. So, grab your GoPro and start experimenting with nighttime time-lapse photography today!