I'd like to use a (well known) brand name in a song lyric. Do I need permission from the company to do this? If so, how does one go about obtaining permission?

I'm not critical of the brand/product in the song, although I'm curious to know if that would impact the need for permission.

Any information would be appreciated. Thanks very much!

I think it probably depends on whether it is something that has become a lexicon or not. Kleenex, koolaid, coke, have probably become part of the lexicon. You could always email public relations and ask.