the "classic" american version of the "gimme a break" kit kat jingle (in use in the us since 1986) was written by ken shuldman (copy) and michael a. levine (music) for the ddb advertising agency. versions of the original have been covered by carrie underwood, shawn colvin, and many studio singers, as well as people who have appeared on-camera in the commercials. the jingle was cited in a study by university of cincinnati researcher james j. kellaris as one of the top ten "earworms" – bits of melody that become stuck in your head. another version of the advertising jingle 'gimme a break' created for kit kat "factory" commercial in the us was an original recording by andrew w.k. w.k. was hired to write a new musical version for their "gimme a break" slogan. variations on the andrew w.k. advertisement included executive dance routines in corporate offices and a network newsroom. however, the "classic" song has also been used again since the newer version first aired in 2004.