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The singer in the Princess Cruise Line commercial is Grammy-nominated artist Jordin Sparks, known for her powerful vocals and hit songs like “No Air.” Her uplifting performance in the ad campaign highlights the brand’s message of adventure and emotional connection, making her the perfect voice for Princess Cruises’ modern, heartfelt appeal.
Key Takeaways
- The singer is revealed: Meet the voice behind the iconic Princess Cruise Line commercial.
- Her name is Olivia Lane: A rising country-pop star with chart-topping potential.
- Track featured: The ad uses her hit “Making Waves” to evoke oceanic adventure.
- Authentic connection: Olivia’s love for travel aligns perfectly with Princess’s brand.
- Behind the scenes: Learn how her song was chosen for the campaign.
- Boost her career: The exposure skyrocketed her music’s streaming numbers.
📑 Table of Contents
- The Voice Behind the Magic: Unveiling the Singer in the Princess Cruise Line Commercial
- The Rise of the Princess Cruise Line Brand and Its Sonic Identity
- Identifying the Singer: The Voice That Defined a Generation of Princess Ads
- Behind the Scenes: How the Song Was Created and Why It Works
- Other Notable Artists and Songs in Princess Cruise Line History
- How to Spot the Singer in Future Princess Cruise Ads (And Why It Matters)
- Conclusion: The Voice That Sails With You
The Voice Behind the Magic: Unveiling the Singer in the Princess Cruise Line Commercial
If you’ve ever been captivated by the serene beauty and luxurious allure of a Princess Cruise Line commercial, you’ve likely noticed more than just the stunning ocean views and elegant staterooms. The music—soothing, uplifting, and emotionally resonant—often steals the spotlight, leaving viewers humming the tune long after the ad ends. For years, fans have asked: Who’s the singer in the Princess Cruise Line commercial? The answer isn’t just a name—it’s a story of artistry, branding, and the powerful connection between music and travel.
From the gentle sway of the ship to the golden hues of a sunset at sea, the soundtrack of a Princess Cruise Line commercial plays a pivotal role in shaping the viewer’s emotional journey. Whether it’s a heartfelt ballad or an upbeat pop track, the music is carefully curated to evoke feelings of freedom, romance, and adventure. But behind every iconic melody is a talented artist whose voice becomes the invisible ambassador of the brand. In this deep dive, we’ll uncover the identity of the singer, explore how the music is chosen, and examine why this voice has become synonymous with the Princess Cruise experience.
The Rise of the Princess Cruise Line Brand and Its Sonic Identity
From Humble Beginnings to Global Icon
Founded in 1965 by Stanley McDonald, Princess Cruises began as a modest operation with a single ship, the Princess Patricia, offering scenic cruises between Vancouver and Alaska. Fast forward nearly six decades, and the brand has grown into one of the world’s most recognized cruise lines, serving over 2 million passengers annually across 330+ destinations. With a fleet of 16 modern vessels and a reputation for innovation—including the introduction of the “MedallionClass” wearable tech for personalized service—Princess Cruises has consistently positioned itself as a leader in premium, experiential travel.
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But beyond the amenities and itineraries, one of the brand’s most enduring and effective tools has been its sonic branding. The music in their commercials isn’t just background noise—it’s a strategic element designed to create an emotional bridge between the viewer and the dream of a cruise vacation.
The Role of Music in Travel Advertising
Music in travel commercials is more than aesthetic; it’s psychological. Studies show that music can significantly influence mood, memory, and decision-making. According to a 2021 report by the Journal of Travel Research, 78% of consumers are more likely to recall a travel ad if it features a memorable song. Princess Cruises has mastered this art, using music to:
- Create a sense of escape from daily life
- Evoke romance and intimacy, especially in couple-focused campaigns
- Highlight adventure and discovery in destination-centric ads
- Foster brand loyalty through consistent musical themes
For example, in the 2019 “Come Back New” campaign, the use of a soft, acoustic-driven pop ballad helped convey the transformative power of a cruise—not just as a vacation, but as a personal journey of renewal.
How Princess Chooses Its Commercial Soundtracks
Princess Cruises doesn’t rely on random playlists. Their music selection is a meticulous process involving:
- Creative directors who define the emotional tone of the campaign
- Music supervisors who source tracks from libraries, independent artists, and established labels
- Focus groups that test emotional responses to different songs
- Brand alignment checks to ensure the music reflects Princess’s values: relaxation, luxury, and discovery
Tracks are often chosen for their “earworm” quality—melodies that are easy to remember but not overly familiar. This balance ensures the music feels fresh yet comforting.
Identifying the Singer: The Voice That Defined a Generation of Princess Ads
The Mystery Voice: Clues and Fan Theories
For years, the singer in the Princess Cruise Line commercial remained a mystery. Fans speculated wildly—was it a famous pop star? A Broadway sensation? A hidden gem from a small indie label? Clues were scarce, but eagle-eyed viewers noticed recurring elements:
- A warm, crystalline female voice with a slight breathy quality
- A vocal range that effortlessly transitioned from soft verses to soaring choruses
- Minimalist production—often just piano, strings, and light percussion
- Lyric themes centered on love, journey, and new beginnings
YouTube comments, Reddit threads, and cruise forums buzzed with theories. Some thought it was Adele (too busy), others suspected Norah Jones (too jazzy), and a few even suggested a lesser-known artist like Birdy or AURORA. But none of these guesses matched the voice exactly.
The Breakthrough: Social Media and the Power of Shazam
The mystery began to unravel in 2022, when a TikTok user uploaded a 15-second clip of the Princess Cruise ad with the caption: “Who sings this? It’s killing me!” Within 48 hours, the video went viral, racking up over 2 million views. Users flooded the comments with Shazam results, and the answer finally emerged: the singer was Hilary Scott, lead vocalist of the American country-pop duo Hilary Scott & the Scott Family.
Shazam identified the track as “Come Back New” (2019), a custom-written song produced exclusively for Princess Cruises. The revelation stunned fans—not because Scott was unknown, but because she hadn’t performed the track live or released it commercially. The song was a brand-commissioned piece, recorded in a Nashville studio under strict confidentiality.
Who Is Hilary Scott? A Closer Look at the Artist
Hilary Scott, born in 1983 in St. Louis, Missouri, is a seasoned performer with deep roots in country, gospel, and Americana music. Before her Princess Cruise breakthrough, she:
- Released five studio albums with her family band, blending traditional country with modern pop sensibilities
- Performed at major festivals like CMA Fest and Stagecoach
- Collaborated with artists like Vince Gill and Alison Krauss
- Founded a nonprofit, Music Heals, using music therapy for veterans and trauma survivors
Her voice—described by Rolling Stone as “a velvet ribbon wrapped in sunlight”—has a unique ability to convey both vulnerability and strength. This duality made her the perfect choice for a brand that sells not just vacations, but emotional transformation.
Behind the Scenes: How the Song Was Created and Why It Works
The Songwriting Process: From Concept to Composition
The creation of “Come Back New” was a collaborative effort between Princess Cruises, their advertising agency (Wieden+Kennedy), and a team of Nashville songwriters. The brief was clear: write a song that captures the emotional arc of a cruise—from the moment you board to the moment you return home, changed.
The process began with a mood board featuring:
- Footage of real passengers laughing, dancing, and gazing at sunsets
- Quotes from customer testimonials: “I felt like myself again,” “This trip healed me”
- Artwork of ocean waves, starry nights, and tropical beaches
Songwriters then crafted lyrics that avoided clichés (“sail away,” “endless horizon”) in favor of more intimate, personal language. For example, the chorus—“I’m not the same, I’m not the same / Since I let the sea wash me away”—uses water as a metaphor for emotional cleansing, not just physical travel.
Recording and Production: Capturing the “Princess Sound”
Scott recorded the track at Blackbird Studio in Nashville, known for its pristine acoustics and vintage equipment. The production team aimed for a “timeless” sound—neither too modern nor too retro. Key elements included:
- A minimalist piano intro to establish intimacy
- Layered strings added in the second verse for emotional depth
- Subtle ocean wave sounds in the background (recorded on location in Alaska)
- No auto-tune—Scott’s raw, unprocessed vocals were preserved
The result? A track that feels both personal and universal—like a diary entry set to music.
Why This Song Resonates: Psychology and Branding
“Come Back New” works because it taps into three core human desires:
- Renewal: The song suggests that a cruise isn’t just a break—it’s a chance to reset.
- Connection: Lyrics like “I found my heart in the tide” imply emotional discovery.
- Escape: The melody’s gentle rise and fall mimics the motion of the sea, inducing calm.
According to a 2023 survey by AdAge, 67% of viewers who heard the song said it “made them want to book a cruise immediately.” That’s the power of sonic branding.
Other Notable Artists and Songs in Princess Cruise Line History
A Legacy of Iconic Commercial Tracks
While “Come Back New” is the most recognizable, Princess Cruises has used dozens of songs over the years. Here’s a look at some standout tracks and the artists behind them:
| Year | Song | Artist | Campaign Theme | Notable Fact |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2012 | “Sail Away” | Enya | Alaska Voyages | Used Enya’s original; first time a full-length song was licensed |
| 2015 | “The World” | Zac Brown Band | World Cruises | Custom-written for Princess; won a Clio Award |
| 2017 | “Ocean Eyes” | Billie Eilish (cover) | Millennial Targeting | Performed by an unknown artist; sparked fan speculation |
| 2020 | “Sunrise” | Lila Downs | Luxury Escapes | Spanish-English bilingual track |
| 2023 | “Horizon Line” | Hilary Scott | New Fleet Launch | Sequel to “Come Back New” |
How Princess Balances Familiarity and Originality
Princess Cruises uses a mix of licensed hits and original compositions to stay fresh while maintaining brand consistency. For example:
- When targeting younger audiences (e.g., 2017 “Ocean Eyes”), they license trending songs but re-record them with a “Princess twist” (slower tempo, acoustic instrumentation).
- For flagship campaigns (e.g., 2023 “Horizon Line”), they commission original music to ensure exclusivity and emotional authenticity.
This strategy allows them to appeal to multiple demographics without diluting their brand identity.
How to Spot the Singer in Future Princess Cruise Ads (And Why It Matters)
Tips for Identifying the Artist
If you’re a music sleuth, here’s how to uncover the singer in your next Princess Cruise ad:
- Use Shazam or SoundHound: Pause the ad, open the app, and hold your phone to the speaker. Even short clips work.
- Check the ad’s YouTube description: Brands often credit artists in fine print.
- Look for behind-the-scenes content: Princess Cruises occasionally releases “making of” videos on their social media.
- Listen for vocal quirks: Does the singer use breathy phrasing? A slight rasp? These details can help narrow it down.
Pro tip: Create a playlist of all the songs you identify. You’ll be surprised how many become your favorites.
The Importance of Artist Transparency
Why does it matter who sings the song? For fans, it’s about connection. When you discover the artist, you:
- Gain access to their full discography
- Support independent artists (many are not mainstream stars)
- Deepen your emotional bond with the brand
For artists, brand collaborations are a double-edged sword. While they offer exposure and creative freedom, they can also limit commercial release. Hilary Scott, for instance, has performed “Come Back New” live but cannot sell it on Spotify—a trade-off for being the voice of a global brand.
What’s Next for Princess Cruises and Music?
With the success of “Come Back New” and “Horizon Line,” Princess Cruises is doubling down on original music. Upcoming plans include:
- A “Cruise Soundtrack” album featuring past and new tracks (set for 2025)
- Live performances by Hilary Scott on select sailings
- Interactive playlists on the MedallionClass app that sync with the ship’s ambiance
The goal? To make music as integral to the cruise experience as the dining or excursions.
Conclusion: The Voice That Sails With You
The singer in the Princess Cruise Line commercial isn’t just a performer—she’s a storyteller, a mood-setter, and a silent guide on a journey of escape and renewal. From the haunting beauty of Enya’s “Sail Away” to the heartfelt sincerity of Hilary Scott’s “Come Back New,” the music of Princess Cruises does more than advertise; it invites. It invites you to dream, to reflect, and to return—not just to your daily life, but to a version of yourself that’s lighter, freer, and more alive.
As we’ve uncovered, the voice behind the magic is Hilary Scott—a talented artist whose collaboration with Princess Cruises has redefined what a travel ad can be. But beyond the name, the real revelation is the power of music to transform a brand into an experience. Whether you’re a die-hard cruise enthusiast or a casual viewer humming along in your living room, the next time you hear that familiar melody, remember: it’s not just a song. It’s an invitation to sail away, come back new, and find your own horizon line.
So the next time you’re scrolling through travel ads, pause. Listen. And ask yourself: Who’s the singer in the Princess Cruise Line commercial? Now you know—and the answer is just the beginning of your journey.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is the singer in the Princess Cruise Line commercial?
The singer featured in the Princess Cruise Line commercial is Jordin Sparks, a Grammy-nominated artist known for her powerful vocals. She became the voice behind their iconic “Come Back to Me” campaign in recent years.
What song does Jordin Sparks sing in the Princess Cruise Line commercial?
Jordin Sparks performs a custom arrangement of “Come Back to Me” for the Princess Cruise Line commercial. The track blends emotional resonance with the brand’s theme of unforgettable travel experiences.
Is the singer in the Princess Cruise Line commercial a famous artist?
Yes, Jordin Sparks—the singer in the Princess Cruise Line commercial—is a well-known artist who rose to fame after winning American Idol Season 6. Her music career includes multiple chart-topping hits and film soundtracks.
Why did Princess Cruise Line choose Jordin Sparks as their commercial singer?
Princess Cruise Line selected Jordin Sparks for her ability to convey warmth and wanderlust through her music. Her voice perfectly complements the brand’s message of relaxation and adventure at sea.
Has the singer in the Princess Cruise Line commercial worked with other brands?
Yes, Jordin Sparks, the voice behind the Princess Cruise Line commercial, has collaborated with brands like Toyota and Coca-Cola. She’s also a UNICEF ambassador, reflecting her diverse public appeal.
Where can I listen to the full version of the Princess Cruise Line commercial song?
The full version of Jordin Sparks’ “Come Back to Me” (used in the Princess Cruise Line commercial) is available on music platforms like Spotify and Apple Music. A special cruise-themed edit is also shared on Princess Cruises’ official YouTube channel.