'An incredible experience' - popular local brass band on recording new John Lewis advert song
The Christmas 2026 John Lewis advert was released today.
A much-loved local brass band say they had an ‘incredible experience’ recording with Sam Fender for the new John Lewis advert.
Easington Colliery Band headed into the studio earlier this year with Tyneside singer Sam to record a cover of The Rolling Stones classic, You Can’t Always Get What You Want.
The new single features on the John Lewis advert which was released today, November 3, with the tagline “Don’t give up on giving.”
The 20th edition of the retailer's much-loved Christmas ad stars Dame Kristin Scott Thomas, alongside ‘Pickles the dog’ voiced by TV royalty, Paul Whitehouse.
Also released today, the song is Sam’s first new music since Rein Me In’s record-breaking successes globally - and Easington Colliery Band said they’ve been dying to share the news of their role in the track.
Posting on social media, the band said: “Still can’t quite believe we’re saying this…
“We recently had the incredible opportunity to play on the new John Lewis & Partners Christmas Advert alongside Sam Fender.
“It’s been a fantastic experience and one we’ll be talking about for a long time. Massive thanks to everyone involved for making it happen.”
They added: “A fantastic day working with some amazing people and being part of such a special project. We’re proud to have played a small part in bringing it to life.”
You can catch Easington Colliery Band this Sunday, November 8, at The Fire Station in Sunderland. They will be joined by special guests this Remembrance Sunday for Last Post, First Light – a memorable evening of music and remembrance.
Programme highlights include Summon the Heroes, the Last Post, All Night Long, Mack the Knife, Cherokee, and the newly commissioned Easington Elegy.
This year’s John Lewis campaign, created by Saatchi & Saatchi, launches with a three-minute advert which follows Gloria (played by Oscar-nominated and BAFTA-winning actress Dame Kristin Scott Thomas) and her faithful companion and childhood gift, Pickles the dog.
Set against the festive tagline “Don’t give up on giving,” the story touches on a relatable modern truth: the fear of not finding the “perfect gift” can overshadow the simple pleasure of giving something thoughtful this festive season.