Sarah McLachlan Reflects on Emotional ASPCA Commercial
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Sarah McLachlan, the talented Canadian singer-songwriter, has opened up about her feelings towards the ASPCA commercial she starred in, which featured her iconic 1997 ballad “Angel.” The emotional advertisement, despite its success in raising a remarkable $30 million in just one year for the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA), still evokes painful emotions for McLachlan.
In a recent interview with Rolling Stone, McLachlan, now 57, revealed that while the commercial had a significant impact in terms of fundraising and reaching a broader audience, she finds it difficult to watch. She described the experience as “painful,” expressing her struggle to revisit the music and visuals that accompanied the ad. Despite the emotional toll it takes on her, McLachlan acknowledged the effectiveness of the commercial, stating, “But it worked like a hot damn.”
The ASPCA commercial, known for its poignant montage of animal clips set to McLachlan’s soul-stirring ballad, served as a plea for viewers to support helpless animals through monthly donations. The combination of visuals and music tugged at the heartstrings of viewers, leaving a lasting impression. Although the commercial may not fully represent McLachlan’s bubbly and optimistic personality, she appreciates the platform it provided for her passion for animal welfare.
Having gained a new audience and perspective from the ASPCA commercial, McLachlan has since found ways to add a touch of humor to her emotional portrayal in the ad. In subsequent advertisements, including a memorable Super Bowl commercial with Busch Light, she was able to playfully acknowledge and even parody her earlier solemn image in the ASPCA campaign.
Amidst her reflections on the ASPCA commercial, McLachlan is preparing to release her first album in nine years titled “Better Broken,” scheduled for September. The singer described the recording process as a joyful experience, contrasting the emotional weight of the ASPCA commercial with the creative freedom she found in producing new music.
With a successful music career spanning decades, including a notable 30th-anniversary tour for her 1993 album “Fumbling Towards Ecstasy,” McLachlan continues to captivate audiences with her soulful voice and heartfelt lyrics. As she looks forward to sharing her latest album with the world, McLachlan’s ability to navigate between emotional depths and lighthearted moments reflects the depth of her artistry and enduring appeal to fans worldwide.
As fans eagerly anticipate the release of “Better Broken,” McLachlan’s journey from the emotional resonance of the ASPCA commercial to the creative fulfillment of her upcoming album serves as a testament to her resilience and artistic evolution. Through her music and philanthropic endeavors, Sarah McLachlan continues to inspire audiences with her unwavering dedication to both her craft and causes close to her heart.