aespa are getting into the holiday spirit early. On November 13, the group released ‘Santa Baby,’ a collaboration single that pairs their vocals with Eartha Kitt’s original recording of the Christmas classic.
Kitt first released ‘Santa Baby’ in 1953, and even after decades of covers, her version remains the most-streamed take on the song. The new single blends Kitt’s original vocals with fresh parts from all four aespa members, so listeners hear both in one track. Since Kitt passed away in 2008, the members didn’t record with her; instead, their voices were woven around her original performance.
The project was planned ahead of the 100th anniversary of Kitt’s birth on January 17, 2027. Primary Wave Music, the publisher behind ‘Santa Baby,’ handled the artwork video, the cover image, and the final mix, while SM Entertainment supported aespa’s part in the collaboration. The single is distributed by Virgin Music Group.
aespa said they were happy to join a song that has been loved for so long. The members explained that all four of them listen to Kitt’s original every holiday season, so adding their own color to it felt special, and they hope the song brings some warmth to listeners’ year-end. Kitt’s daughter, Kitt Shapiro, said her mother always cared about bringing generations and cultures together through music and would have been thrilled to hear her voice alongside a group as talented as aespa.
Fans in Korea will get to see aespa up close soon, too. The group’s 2026 fan meeting takes place at Korea University’s Hwajeong Gymnasium in Seoul on November 28 and 29.
If you enjoyed this post, share it with a friend who might love it too. And check back on Koutfits for more K-pop news and outfit breakdowns!
