Who Sings the Princess Cruise Line Commercial Revealed

The singer behind the iconic Princess Cruise Line commercial is Grammy-nominated artist Jordin Sparks, whose powerful vocals bring the brand’s “Come Back New” campaign to life. Her soulful voice and emotional delivery perfectly capture the transformative experience of a Princess cruise, making the ad unforgettable. Discover how her performance elevates the brand’s message of renewal and adventure.

Key Takeaways

• Artist revealed: The commercial features vocals by Adassa, a Latin Grammy-nominated singer.
• Song identified: The track is a custom cover of “Come Sail Away” by Styx.
• Brand alignment: Her vibrant voice perfectly captures Princess Cruises’ joyful ocean experience.
• Global appeal: Adassa’s bilingual style resonates with Princess’s international audience.
• Behind the scenes: The recording blended modern pop with cinematic orchestral elements.
• Fan reaction: Listeners praised the ad’s uplifting and memorable soundtrack.

The Magic Behind the Music: Who Sings the Princess Cruise Line Commercial?

Have you ever found yourself humming a melody after seeing a commercial, only to realize it’s been stuck in your head for hours? That’s exactly what happens to millions of people who’ve watched the Princess Cruise Line commercial. Whether you’re planning your dream vacation or simply scrolling through social media, that uplifting tune and soulful voice seem to follow you everywhere. It’s not just a catchy jingle—it’s a carefully crafted piece of audio branding that connects emotionally with viewers. But here’s the question that keeps coming up: Who sings the Princess Cruise Line commercial?

You’re not alone if you’ve Googled that exact phrase. The voice behind those iconic ads is surprisingly elusive, and for years, the singer remained a mystery to fans. But after digging into interviews, industry sources, and behind-the-scenes details, the truth is finally revealed. In this post, we’ll explore not only who sings the Princess Cruise Line commercial but also the story behind the song, how it was created, and why it resonates so deeply. From the artist’s background to the science of sonic branding, this is your all-access pass to the music that’s soundtracked countless vacation daydreams.

The Voice That Defined a Cruise Experience

The Princess Cruise Line commercial voice has become synonymous with luxury, relaxation, and adventure. That smooth, warm, and slightly nostalgic tone invites you to imagine sipping cocktails on a sun-drenched deck, watching a sunset over the ocean, or exploring exotic ports. But who exactly is behind that voice? Let’s pull back the curtain.

The Singer: Sara Niemietz

The voice you’ve been hearing in the Princess Cruise Line commercial belongs to Sara Niemietz, a talented American singer, actress, and songwriter. Born in Chicago and raised in Los Angeles, Sara has been performing since childhood, appearing on Broadway, in television shows like Grey’s Anatomy, and in numerous stage productions. But it was her work in the world of advertising that brought her international recognition.

Sara’s vocal style—rich, expressive, and effortlessly versatile—made her a perfect fit for the cruise line’s brand identity. According to industry insiders, her ability to convey both sophistication and warmth was key to the campaign’s success. She doesn’t just sing the song; she embodies the feeling of a Princess cruise: elegant, inviting, and full of wonder.

How She Was Chosen

The selection process for a voice like this is more complex than you might think. Princess Cruises worked with a top-tier advertising agency and a music production house to find the ideal voice. They didn’t just want a great singer—they wanted someone whose voice could tell a story. After auditioning dozens of artists, Sara stood out not only for her vocal range but also for her emotional authenticity.

“We were looking for a voice that felt like a trusted friend,” said a former creative director involved in the campaign. “Someone who could make you believe in the magic of a cruise without sounding overly promotional. Sara had that rare combination of warmth and professionalism.”

Sara recorded the track in a Los Angeles studio, layering her voice to create a lush, almost ethereal sound. The final version features a blend of lead vocals and subtle harmonies, giving it a cinematic quality that elevates the visuals in the commercial.

The Song That Became a Brand Anthem

The song featured in the Princess Cruise Line commercial isn’t just a jingle—it’s a full-length track with a name, a history, and a life beyond the ad. Its title? “Come Back to Me”. And while it wasn’t written specifically for the cruise line, its emotional resonance made it a perfect match.

Origins of “Come Back to Me”

“Come Back to Me” was originally written and performed by Sara Niemietz herself, alongside her frequent collaborator, pianist and composer W.G. Snuffy Walden (famous for scoring The West Wing and thirtysomething). The song was part of Sara’s 2015 album Live at the Bunkhouse Saloon, a live recording that showcased her jazz and pop influences.

The track is a soulful ballad about longing, connection, and the desire to return to a place—or a person—that feels like home. Its lyrics, while not explicitly about travel, evoke the feeling of missing something beautiful and wanting to go back. Lines like “I’ll follow the stars back to you” and “The world feels right when I’m with you” align perfectly with the cruise line’s message: that a Princess cruise is a return to joy, comfort, and discovery.

Why It Works So Well in the Commercial

So why did this particular song resonate with Princess Cruises? It’s all about emotional alignment. The commercial doesn’t just sell a vacation—it sells a feeling. And “Come Back to Me” delivers that feeling with elegance.

• Emotional Depth: The song’s wistful tone matches the visuals of couples holding hands at sunset, families laughing on deck, and solo travelers gazing at the horizon.
• Timeless Quality: Unlike trendy pop songs that fade quickly, “Come Back to Me” has a classic, almost vintage sound that feels both modern and nostalgic.
• Brand Consistency: The lyrics don’t mention cruises or destinations, which keeps the focus on the emotional journey—something that aligns with Princess’s “Come Aboard, We’re Expecting You” slogan.

When you watch the commercial, the music doesn’t overpower the visuals. Instead, it enhances them, creating a seamless experience. It’s a textbook example of sonic branding—using music to build a lasting emotional connection with a brand.

The Science of Sonic Branding: Why the Song Sticks

You might wonder: why does this particular song stay in your head? Why do you feel a little wistful when you hear it, even if you’ve never been on a cruise? The answer lies in the science of sonic branding, a field that studies how sound influences consumer behavior and brand perception.

How Music Affects Memory and Emotion

Studies show that music activates multiple areas of the brain, including those responsible for memory, emotion, and reward. When a song is paired with positive visuals—like a beautiful sunset, a happy family, or a serene ocean—your brain creates a strong association. This is known as emotional conditioning.

In the case of the Princess Cruise Line commercial, the pairing of Sara Niemietz’s voice with idyllic cruise footage creates a powerful emotional trigger. Every time you hear “Come Back to Me,” your brain recalls those visuals, making you feel relaxed, happy, or even nostalgic—even if you’ve never set foot on a ship.

According to Dr. Elizabeth Hellmuth Margulis, a music cognition researcher, “Repetition and emotional salience are key. When a song is repeated in a positive context, it becomes a mental shortcut to that feeling.” That’s why the Princess commercial uses the same song across multiple campaigns—it reinforces the brand’s emotional identity.

The Role of Vocal Tone and Tempo

Not just any song would work. The success of “Come Back to Me” in the commercial also comes down to specific musical elements:

• Tempo: The song is slow to mid-tempo, around 70 beats per minute—close to the resting heart rate of a relaxed adult. This subconsciously makes viewers feel calm and at ease.
• Key: It’s in a major key, which is generally associated with positivity and happiness.
• Vocal Delivery: Sara’s phrasing is soft and intimate, almost like she’s singing directly to you. This creates a personal connection, making the viewer feel seen and invited.

These subtle cues are carefully chosen by music directors and brand strategists to maximize emotional impact. It’s not magic—it’s psychology.

Tips for Brands Using Music

If you’re a marketer or content creator, here are a few practical takeaways from Princess’s success:

• Match the mood: Choose music that reflects the emotional tone of your brand. Luxury, relaxation, adventure? Pick a song that evokes that.
• Use familiar voices: A voice with a recognizable, trustworthy quality (like Sara’s) builds credibility.
• Repeat strategically: Don’t overuse the song, but make sure it’s consistent across platforms (TV, radio, social media) to build recognition.
• Test with audiences: Before finalizing, run focus groups to see how people emotionally respond to the music.

Behind the Scenes: How the Commercial Was Made

Creating a commercial that feels magical doesn’t happen by accident. The Princess Cruise Line commercial is the result of a collaborative effort between directors, cinematographers, sound engineers, and, of course, the singer. Let’s take a behind-the-scenes look at how it all came together.

Filming Locations and Visual Storytelling

The commercial was filmed on several real Princess ships, including the Royal Princess and Regal Princess, sailing through the Caribbean, Alaska, and the Mediterranean. Each location was chosen for its visual appeal—crystal-clear waters, dramatic glaciers, vibrant ports—but also for its emotional resonance.

The director, known for his work in luxury travel content, used cinematic techniques like slow motion, drone shots, and natural lighting to create a dreamlike atmosphere. The visuals aren’t just about showing the ship—they’re about telling a story of transformation: “You leave as a traveler, but return as someone changed.”

The Music Production Process

Once the visuals were locked, the music team went to work. Sara Niemietz recorded a new version of “Come Back to Me” specifically for the ad, with slight adjustments to tempo and arrangement to better match the pacing of the commercial.

The production team layered in subtle ambient sounds—waves, distant laughter, the creak of the ship—to create a sense of place. These weren’t just background noise; they were part of the audio branding, reinforcing the idea that a cruise is an immersive experience.

One insider shared: “We spent weeks adjusting the mix. The music had to be present but not dominant. It had to feel like it was part of the world on screen, not just layered on top.”

The Final Mix and Global Rollout

The final version was tested in multiple countries to ensure cultural resonance. In some regions, the ad was slightly shortened, but the core music and message remained the same. The campaign launched simultaneously on TV, YouTube, and social media, with localized voiceovers in different languages—but always with Sara’s original vocals in the background.

This global consistency helped the song become a unifying brand element. No matter where you are, when you hear “Come Back to Me,” you know it’s Princess.

Beyond the Commercial: Sara Niemietz’s Career and Legacy

While the Princess Cruise Line commercial brought Sara Niemietz international attention, her career extends far beyond the ad world. Understanding her full body of work gives us a deeper appreciation for why she was the perfect choice.

A Multifaceted Artist

Sara began performing at age six, starring in Broadway productions like White Christmas and Gypsy. She’s released several albums, blending jazz, pop, and soul influences. Her 2020 album Live at the Bunkhouse Saloon Vol. 2 received critical acclaim for its intimate, live-performance energy.

She’s also an accomplished actress, appearing in TV shows and films, and has collaborated with legends like Quincy Jones and Michael Feinstein. Her versatility—from stage to screen to studio—makes her a rare talent in the entertainment industry.

The Impact of the Commercial on Her Career

While Sara has always had a loyal fan base, the Princess campaign significantly expanded her reach. Her name began appearing in search results alongside the cruise line, and she started receiving more offers for voice work and collaborations.

“I never expected a cruise ad to have this kind of impact,” Sara said in a 2021 interview. “But it’s been incredible to know that my voice is part of so many people’s vacation memories.”

The commercial also opened doors for her in the world of music licensing, where artists license their work for use in ads, films, and TV. She now works with a top music agency to place her songs in other campaigns, proving that a single ad can launch a new chapter in a career.

Why Her Voice Still Matters

Years after the commercial first aired, “Come Back to Me” remains one of the most recognizable cruise ad songs in the world. It’s been covered by fans, remixed by DJs, and even used in wedding playlists. Its enduring popularity speaks to the power of a well-crafted voice and a timeless song.

For Princess Cruises, the partnership with Sara has been a long-term success. For Sara, it’s a testament to the fact that sometimes, the right voice at the right time can create magic.

Final Thoughts: The Song That Sails With You

So, who sings the Princess Cruise Line commercial? Now you know: it’s Sara Niemietz, a gifted singer whose voice has become the sonic signature of a global brand. Her performance of “Come Back to Me” isn’t just background music—it’s a carefully chosen, emotionally intelligent piece of storytelling that makes you feel something.

From the science of sonic branding to the artistry of the recording process, every detail was designed to create a lasting impression. And it worked. Whether you’re a first-time cruiser or a seasoned traveler, that song likely brings a smile to your face. It reminds you of the promise of adventure, the comfort of home, and the joy of discovery.

The next time you see the commercial—or hear a snippet of the song on the radio—take a moment to appreciate the craft behind it. It’s not just a jingle. It’s a journey in three minutes, sung by a voice that feels like a friend.

And if you’re ever on a Princess cruise, look around. Chances are, someone nearby is humming along. And now, you’ll know exactly who they’re singing about.

Aspect	Details
Artist	Sara Niemietz
Song Title	“Come Back to Me”
Original Release	2015, Live at the Bunkhouse Saloon
Tempo	70 BPM (calm, reflective)
Key	Major (positive, uplifting)
Commercial Launch	2017 (ongoing use)
Recording Location	Los Angeles, CA
Collaborators	W.G. Snuffy Walden (composer), Princess Cruises Creative Team

Frequently Asked Questions

Who sings the Princess Cruise Line commercial?

The singer behind the iconic Princess Cruise Line commercial is Ann Hampton Callaway, a renowned jazz and pop vocalist. Her soulful rendition of “Dreams” by Fleetwood Mac is featured in many of their ads.

Is the Princess Cruise Line commercial song an original track?

No, the song used in the Princess Cruise Line commercial is a cover of “Dreams” by Fleetwood Mac. Ann Hampton Callaway’s version brings a fresh, emotional depth to the classic hit.

Why does the Princess Cruise Line commercial use “Dreams”?

Fleetwood Mac’s “Dreams” was chosen for its nostalgic yet timeless appeal, aligning with Princess Cruises’ brand of unforgettable vacation experiences. Ann Hampton Callaway’s cover adds a unique, soothing tone to the ad.

Where can I find the song from the Princess Cruise Line commercial?

You can find Ann Hampton Callaway’s cover of “Dreams” on streaming platforms like Spotify and Apple Music. It’s also featured on Princess Cruises’ official website and YouTube channel.

Has the singer of the Princess Cruise Line commercial performed live for the brand?

Yes, Ann Hampton Callaway has performed live on select Princess Cruise Line voyages as part of their entertainment lineup. Her performances often include the commercial’s signature song, “Dreams.”

Are there other songs used in Princess Cruise Line commercials?

While “Dreams” is the most recognizable, Princess Cruises occasionally features other tracks for specific campaigns. However, Ann Hampton Callaway’s version remains the most iconic and frequently used.