## Sam Fender Reimagines a Rolling Stones Classic for John Lewis Holiday Campaign<\/p>\n
The annual John Lewis Christmas commercial has long been a cultural touchstone in the United Kingdom, often serving as a launchpad for stripped-back, emotive musical covers. This year, the retailer has tapped North Shields singer-songwriter Sam Fender<\/a> to provide the soundtrack, delivering a fresh, atmospheric take on The Rolling Stones<\/a>\u2019 1969 anthem, \u201cYou Can\u2019t Always Get What You Want.\u201d<\/p>\n ### A Localized Production with Deep Roots The commercial itself features acclaimed actress Kristin Scott Thomas, known for her recent work in *Slow Horses*. By selecting Fender, the brand continues its tradition of spotlighting high-caliber musical talent; previous campaigns have famously featured artists like Lily Allen, AURORA, and Lola Young, all of whom helped turn their respective covers into chart-topping moments.<\/p>\n ### High Praise from a Rock Icon \u201cIt was a privilege to rework such an iconic song by such a legendary band,\u201d Fender noted in a recent press statement. \u201cIn the spirit of Christmas, we re-recorded the children\u2019s choir with the kids from my old school.\u201d<\/p>\n ### The Evolution of the “John Lewis Sound”
\nRather than opting for a standard studio production, Fender chose to ground the recording in his Tyneside roots. The track features a poignant collaboration with the choir from John Spence Community High School-Fender\u2019s own alma mater-alongside the rich, resonant brass arrangements of the Easington Colliery Band. This community-focused approach adds a layer of authenticity that aligns with the sentimental storytelling typically found in John Lewis\u2019 festive marketing.<\/p>\n
\nThe cover has already garnered significant attention, most notably receiving a stamp of approval from The Rolling Stones\u2019 frontman, Mick Jagger. For Fender, the project was more than just a commercial gig; it was a chance to pay homage to rock royalty while giving back to his local community.<\/p>\n
\nThe John Lewis Christmas advert has become a barometer for musical trends in the UK. While early iterations of these ads favored melancholic, piano-led ballads, recent years have seen a shift toward more diverse arrangements. By incorporating the Easington Colliery Band\u2019s brass section, Fender\u2019s version moves away from the minimalist trend, offering a grander, more cinematic soundscape that mirrors the high production values of modern holiday advertising.<\/p>\n