The John Lewis 2012 Christmas advert featuring Paloma Faith’s emotional cover of Never Tear Us Apart is one of those timeless campaigns that beautifully captures the brand’s tradition of pairing heartfelt storytelling with powerful music.
The commercial follows a romantic connection between two people from different eras, showing that while the world may change, love and human connection remain the same. Through clever visual storytelling, the advert bridges generations, reminding viewers that the most meaningful parts of life never really change — a central theme often found in John Lewis’s Christmas campaigns.
The visuals are elegantly cinematic, blending nostalgic and modern tones. Each scene highlights the warmth, tenderness, and emotion that have become synonymous with John Lewis’s festive advertising. Combined with Paloma Faith’s stirring vocal performance, the advert leaves a lasting emotional impact and a sense of togetherness that resonates with viewers year after year.
Music in the John Lewis “Never Tear Us Apart” Advert
Music Track: Never Tear Us Apart
Artist: Paloma Faith
Album: Fall to Grace
Released: 2012
The song used in the advert is a cover of Never Tear Us Apart, originally performed by Australian rock band INXS. Paloma Faith’s version was specially recorded for the John Lewis campaign and later featured on her album Fall to Grace in 2012. Her soulful, passionate rendition brings a fresh emotional depth to the song, perfectly complementing the advert’s romantic and nostalgic atmosphere.
Paloma’s vocal delivery and the stripped-back arrangement evoke a sense of intimacy and sincerity, helping the advert stand out as one of John Lewis’s most memorable contributions to the golden era of Christmas advertising.