aespa Reimagines Holiday Classic “Santa Baby” with Legendary Eartha Kitt’s Original Vocals

The Release Celebrates Eartha Kitt’s Enduring Legacy Ahead of the

Late Singer’s 100th Birth Anniversary in January 2027 

Global K-pop powerhouse aespa (SM Entertainment/Capitol) has released a special digital single, “Santa Baby,” via Primary Wave Music, featuring the original vocals of legendary singer and actress Eartha Kitt. The collaboration brings together Kitt’s iconic voice together with all four members of aespa — KARINA, GISELLE, WINTER, and NINGNING — for a fresh take on the beloved Christmas classic. The single is now available on all major streaming platforms [LISTEN HERE].

The release comes ahead of what would have been Kitt’s 100th birthday on January 17, 2027, kicking off a yearlong celebration of her enduring legacy. Originally written for and recorded by Eartha Kitt in 1953, “Santa Baby,” has remained a holiday favorite for more than seven decades, inspiring countless covers and reinterpretations across generations.

Blending Kitt’s unmistakable vocals with aespa’s distinctive musical style, the new rendition gives the timeless classic a contemporary twist while staying true to the charm of the original. The collaboration offers a new side of aespa’s musical versatility while introducing Kitt’s celebrated voice to a new generation of listeners.

“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 Kitt Shapiro, Eartha Kitt’s daughter.

“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.

Following a successful run of shows across Asia, Latin America, and North America, aespa will bring their 2026-27 aespa LIVE TOUR – SYNK : COMPLæXITY to Europe and the UK in early 2027. The nine-city European leg kicks off in Manchester on January 14, with stops in London, Amsterdam, Stockholm, Copenhagen, Berlin, Milan, Barcelona, and Paris.

For tickets and more information, visit aespaworldtour.com.

Upcoming 2026-27 aespa LIVE TOUR – SYNK : COMPLæXITY tour dates:

January 14 — Manchester, UK — AO Arena

January 16 — London, UK — The O2

January 19 — Amsterdam, NL — Ziggo Dome

January 22 — Stockholm, SE — Avicii Arena

January 24 — Copenhagen, DK — Royal Arena

January 26 — Berlin, DE — Uber Arena

January 29 — Milan, IT — Unipol Dome

January 31 — Barcelona, ES — Palau Sant Jordi

February 2 — Paris, FR — Accor Arena