John Lewis, in collaboration with legendary singer-songwriter Richard Ashcroft, has announced the winner of their nationwide singing competition, a key part of this year’s iconic Christmas campaign. The retailer, famous for its Christmas adverts featuring cover songs, used their largest platform this year to offer aspiring musicians a unique opportunity to become the next John Lewis cover star.
In partnership with BMG and Richard Ashcroft, a nationwide talent search was launched on 15 November on TikTok, inviting individuals to showcase their vocal talents by performing their own versions of the advert’s original track ‘Sonnet’, penned by Richard Ashcroft.
Over 1,000 entries were received, inspiring an incredible range of covers from NHS colleagues, a Ukulele band, a furry entry from Battersea Dogs & Cats Home, and talented aspiring singers recording creatively brilliant takes on the track.
Will Young, Britain’s Got Talent’s Ace Clvrk and the John Lewis choir also supported the competition with their own covers.
Mel Raeburn, known as @mel.raeburn on TikTok, won over Richard Ashcroft and the judging panel with their subtle arrangement and fine harmonies, encapsulating the emotional depth and festive magic of this year’s campaign.
Who is Mel Raeburn?
Mel Raeburn from Crewe expressed her delight at being chosen by Richard Ashcroft and John Lewis. She said: “I’m beyond thrilled to have been chosen by Richard Ashcroft and John Lewis as the cover star. Everyone waits for the John Lewis Christmas advert every year and it’s an honour to be a small part of that magic and have my cover track released as a single – it’s a dream come true.”
Additionally, the prize includes a £3,000 John Lewis shopping spree and tickets to a Richard Ashcroft headline show in 2025. Rosie Hanley, Brand Director, commented: “This year, we took the chance to feature an original song in the Christmas advert to run the cover star music competition and give the nation the opportunity to be part of something really special. “.
Richard Ashcroft, singer of The Verve, praised the talent of singer Mel Raeburn, who will be covering his hit song “Sonnet” in the latest John Lewis advert. “This year’s Christmas campaign centred around connection, digging a little deeper into your heart and exploring deep connections – finding our cover star has been a fantastic way to extend that message. Mel Raeburn truly embodies the spirit of our campaign, and we’re so excited to share their incredible talent on our ad airing on Christmas day.”
Mel recorded her own rendition of ‘Sonnet’ at Angel Studios, part of the Abbey Road family, under the guidance of esteemed producer Tim Bran, known for his work with London Grammar, Aurora, and Birdy among others.
The prize includes a digital release of this special version of the track on 19th December via BMG and a special Christmas Day airing of the advert on TV. Proceeds from the track will go to the Building Happier Futures charity.
Ashcroft commented, “It’s been an honour to hear so many great interpretations of my song. The standard was so high it made choosing a winner really difficult.”
“As I could only pick one, it was Mel with her subtle arrangement and fine harmonies. ” “Congratulations, Mel, I look forward to hearing the recorded version. Merry Christmas, and love and peace to everyone who took part.”
