Elton John is aiming for his second Christmas No1 after teaming up with Irish star CMAT for a new version of Step Into Christmas. The reimagined classic is the latest Amazon Music Original Holiday, which last year delivered the Christmas No1 for Kylie Minogue with her song XMAS.
A Festive Collaboration
Elton John said of the collaboration: "I've loved CMAT since I first heard her and saw her videos years ago. She has this incredible personality, and a wicked sense of humour. You can tell she has Rock n Roll and Country and Americana at the heart of what she does - 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. She's done an amazing job."
Mercury-nominated CMAT had teased the hook-up earlier by dressing up in Elton's jumpsuit. She added: "When I listen to the music of Elton John, I am 7 years old in the back of my mam's car. It doesn't matter how old or famous I become - whenever I listen to Elton John I will always be 7 years old in the back of my mam's car. Reconciling this feeling with the reality of getting to work with the man in question has been confusing to say the least, but the greatest joy of my life. Christmas is my absolute favourite thing in the world, second maybe only to Elton John. I would like to invite the whole world to step into Christmas with us and make your yuletide dreams come true."
Chart History and Rivals
If the tune hits the top it will be Elton's eleventh No1 single. He previously reached the top of the festive charts in 2021 as a featured artist on the LadBaby charity track, Sausage Rolls for Everyone, with Ed Sheeran.
Amazon Music Original Holiday songs have become serious contenders for the top spot in recent years, with Tom Grennan and Sam Ryder hitting No2 behind classics like WHAM!'s Last Christmas, which will again be favourite for the top.
The original version of Step Into Christmas peaked at No24 when first released in 1973, but reached a high of No7 in the streaming era just last year. Elton is working on a new album which is expected in 2027.
