Morrissey - Morrissey Gives Permission For Smiths Song On Advert

Morrissey Gives Permission For Smiths Song On Advert

Morrissey has given John Lewis permission to use a version of a Smiths song for its Christmas campaign.

The 'Shoplifters of the World Unite' musician - who is famously anti-establishment - is said to be "delighted" that the group's song 'Please, Please, Please, Let Me Get What I Want' will be recorded by Slow Moving Millie, aka Colin Farrell's former wife Amelia Warner, for the campaign.

John Lewis' director of marketing Craig Inglis, said: "It wasn't a long and difficult road actually. It was relatively straightforward getting the rights. We approached the record company and Morrissey back in July, and they gave their approval. It is an iconic track from an iconic British band. We know our audience holds The Smiths and the bands from that era in high esteem."

Although fans have reacted angrily with one calling it a "serious crime against music" on twitter, this is not the first time the band have 'sold out'.

Earlier this year, a small section of 'This Charming Man' was also used in a John Lewis advertising campaign.

Ruth Patterson, the head of marketing at record label Rough Trade, which released many of the Smiths' albums said the move was a "good thing".

She explained: "I do like the idea of a really good song by a really good band being played in Middle England's living rooms. I'm sure that wasn't the song's intended purpose but I think that's a good thing."