Enter this story with caution: Bon Iver’s Justin Vernon has crafted a meatloaf-themed jingle so deft, unctuous, and maddeningly catchy that it threatens to dominate your weekend. True to his folk-locavore roots—though certainly a departure from his more ponderous and arcane compositions—Vernon recorded the chirpy number to promote Howard’s Bar in Minnesota. The establishment, which opened in 2023, is run by local musician Caroline Smith and her chef husband.
The song serves as the soundtrack for a charming advertisement featuring meatloaf dippers, accompanied by an animation from illustrator Nick Stokes. The dish itself involves a dense meatloaf slathered in sauce, which is then baked, sliced, breaded, and deep-fried. The resulting snack is as juicy and sticky as Vernon’s surprisingly infectious tune.
For those curious about the lyrical content, Vernon sings: “Meatloaf dippers at Howard’s in Stillwater/Meatloaf dippers can be a whole meal or starter/Meatloaf dippers, oh so light and yummy/Go on and warm your tummy, with dippers.” While the collaboration is unexpected, it highlights the artist’s willingness to engage with his local community in creative and lighthearted ways.