Famed Adman Bill Backer, Best-Known for Coca-Cola's 'Hilltop,' Dies

Legendary creative was 89

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Bill Backer, the ad giant behind the world's most famous ad, Coca-Cola's "Hilltop," which had a prominent role in the finale of Mad Men, died on Friday. He was 89.

He is survived by his wife, Ann Backer, who confirmed his death to the New York Times.

Backer's iconic work for brands like Miller Lite, Campbell's Soup and Lowenbrau during his years at agencies like Young & Rubicam and McCann-Erickson as well as the shop he co-founded, Backer Spielvogel Bates, showcased his ability to find ideas that could surpass typical marketing efforts and connect real, human feelings with brands. 

A former songwriter, Backer's work often featured catchy jingles like the famous Coke tune, "I'd Like to Teach the World to Sing," or Lowenbrau's "Here's to Good Friends, Tonight is Kinda Special." 

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