aespa is bringing a timeless Christmas favorite into a new generation with a special collaboration featuring the original vocals of legendary singer and actress Eartha Kitt.
The K-pop quartet has released a fresh version of “Santa Baby,” combining Kitt’s iconic 1953 recording with newly added vocals from KARINA, GISELLE, WINTER, and NINGNING.
Released on November 13 through Primary Wave Music, the special digital single offers a modern reinterpretation of one of the most recognizable holiday songs.
Rather than recording a completely separate cover, aespa’s version incorporates Kitt’s original vocals, creating a musical meeting between the late singer’s classic performance and the group’s contemporary sound.
The collaboration also carries special significance because it arrives ahead of what would have been Eartha Kitt’s 100th birthday on January 17, 2027.
The release launches a year-long celebration of Kitt’s enduring artistic legacy while bringing her music to listeners who may be discovering her work for the first time.
aespa Adds a Modern Touch to Eartha Kitt’s Holiday Classic
Originally recorded by Eartha Kitt in 1953, “Santa Baby” has remained a holiday staple for more than seven decades.
Its playful character and Kitt’s distinctive vocal performance have helped the song remain popular across generations, inspiring numerous artists to reinterpret it over the years.
aespa’s new rendition preserves the recognizable character of Kitt’s original while introducing the individual styles of its four members.
The combination allows the group to explore a different musical atmosphere from its usual releases while retaining the personality that has become central to aespa’s sound.
The members also revealed that the project had personal meaning for them, explaining that they have listened to Kitt’s original version during the holiday season for years.
“It’s such an honor to be part of a song that has been loved for so many years.
All four of us have always enjoyed listening to Eartha Kitt’s original during the holiday season, so getting to bring our own touch to it was a really special experience.
We hope this new version brings a little extra joy to everyone’s holiday season,” said aespa.
The release therefore works as both a festive song and a bridge between two generations of female performers.
Kitt’s original recording remains at the center of the track, while aespa’s vocals give the classic a contemporary interpretation.
Eartha Kitt’s Daughter Welcomes the Generational Collaboration
Kitt’s daughter, Kitt Shapiro, also expressed her appreciation for the project and highlighted the connection between generations and cultures that the collaboration represents.
“My mother believed in bringing generations and cultures together through music.
I think she would be absolutely delighted to hear her voice alongside the talented women of aespa.
It’s a wonderful celebration of creativity, individuality, and the power of music to connect us all,” said Shapiro.
The collaboration arrives during an especially active period for aespa.
Alongside the new holiday single, the group is preparing a remix of “KISS N TELL,” the title track from its first Japanese mini album, with m-flo producer Taku Takahashi. The remix is scheduled for release on November 20.
aespa is also continuing its 2026–27 SYNK : COMPLæXITY world tour, with European and UK dates scheduled for early 2027.
The group will perform in cities including Manchester, London, Amsterdam, Stockholm, Copenhagen, Berlin, Milan, Barcelona, and Paris.
With “Santa Baby,” aespa has given a beloved holiday recording a distinctive new identity while preserving the presence of the artist who originally made it famous.
The collaboration celebrates Eartha Kitt’s legacy and introduces her unforgettable voice to another generation through aespa’s modern musical style.
