Elton John and CMAT release a new Christmas duet version of Step into Christmas

The new duet

Sir Elton John and CMAT have recorded a new version of his 1973 festive song Step into Christmas. Elton John announced the track on his Instagram account, and sources report it was released on the morning of 5 November 2026. The Independent describes it as this year's Amazon Music Original Christmas song.

Elton John said in a statement that CMAT has an incredible personality and a wicked sense of humour. He also explained why he wanted to work with her.

“we're kindred spirits in so many ways, and that's why I was so thrilled with the idea of us collaborating on Step Into Christmas.”

Background on the original song

Elton John and his longtime collaborator Bernie Taupin wrote the song as a thank-you to fans. It first peaked at Number 24 on the Official Singles Chart in January 1974. Its most recent chart appearance came last year, when it reached Number Seven on the UK Singles Chart.

CMAT's response

CMAT, whose real name is Ciara Mary-Alice Thompson, said that listening to Elton John's music still takes her back to being seven years old in the back seat of her mother's car. She described the chance to work with him as the greatest joy of her life, while admitting the experience had been confusing.

She also said Christmas was her favourite time of year.

“Christmas is my absolute favourite thing in the world, second maybe only to Elton John.”

Teasers and recent career

CMAT had been teasing the single with Instagram posts of herself dressed as Sir Elton after Halloween. On 4 November, Elton John posted a video of his Christmas tree topped with a CMAT doll wearing a glittery outfit and holding a mini guitar. CMAT is 30 years old and won the Best Album prize at this year's Ivor Novello Awards for her third LP, Euro-Country, which was released last year and shortlisted for the 2025 Mercury Prize. Her best known songs include Take A Sexy Picture Of Me, When A Good Man Cries and Running/Planning.

During 2026 she guest starred on SNL UK, toured the US and appeared on NPR's Tiny Desk. The streaming platform behind this release previously had success with Kylie Minogue's exclusive track XMAS, which was the 2025 UK Christmas Number One.