Norah Jones and Chris Stapleton have joined forces for their first-ever recorded collaboration, releasing a soulful holiday single titled “April’s Gone.” Issued through Blue Note Records, the song brings together two of contemporary American music’s most distinctive voices for a reflective winter ballad.
Written by Norah Jones alongside producer Leon Michels, “April’s Gone” breaks away from traditional upbeat holiday tracks. Instead, the song unfolds as a slow-tempo ballad running approximately four and a half minutes. Built around a restrained musical arrangement featuring piano, bass, and drums, the track captures a poignant lyrical narrative about a romantic relationship losing its spark and looking to the winter season for emotional renewal.
How the Collaboration Came Together
The cross-genre pairing originated from a creative vision Jones could not shake after finishing the song’s composition with Michels, who previously produced her 2021 holiday album I Dream Of Christmas and her 2024 studio release Visions.
“After Leon and I wrote ‘April’s Gone,’ I couldn’t stop hearing Chris’ voice in my head singing it,” Norah Jones shared in a statement. “I’ve always loved him and wanted to sing with him. Mickey Raphael connected us, and next thing I knew a recording of Chris singing the song was in my inbox. I was so happy! His voice is just incredible.”
The connection was facilitated by legendary harmonica player Mickey Raphael, a longtime member of Willie Nelson’s band. The collaboration bridges Jones’ signature jazz-infused piano-pop sensibilities with Stapleton’s gritty, soulful country baritone. Their paths had previously crossed during live performances, including Willie Nelson’s star-studded 90th birthday concerts at the Hollywood Bowl.
Exploring the Themes of ‘April’s Gone’
Lyrically, the song uses the changing seasons as a metaphor for the evolution of a couple’s bond. April represents the vibrant, flourishing phase of early love, while the subsequent months bring seasonal and emotional difficulties. Christmas acts as the emotional anchor of the track, offering a pivotal opportunity to rekindle affection that has faded as the year grew colder.
Neither artist is a stranger to holiday music. Jones previously shared the collaborative EP Christmas With You alongside Laufey, while Stapleton famously teamed up with Kelly Clarkson for the song “Glow” on her 2021 holiday album, When Christmas Comes Around…. However, “April’s Gone” marks the first time either performer has ventured into this territory together, leaning heavily into heartbreak and reflection rather than conventional seasonal cheer.
Future Releases and Availability
“April’s Gone” is currently available on all major digital streaming platforms via Capitol and Blue Note Records. Alongside the single release, Jones has kept busy with additional archival projects, announcing the November 27th release of Playing Along, Volume 2. This exclusive red vinyl LP-released for Black Friday Record Store Day through independent record shops-features standout musical collaborations from her podcast, boasting guest appearances from artists like Lucinda Williams, Jason Isbell, Joshua Homme, and Josh Groban.
As the winter season approaches, “April’s Gone” stands ready to test its staying power on holiday playlists, offering listeners a deeper, more emotional alternative to standard Christmas fare.
Frequently Asked Questions
When was ‘April’s Gone’ released?
‘April’s Gone’ was released on streaming services on October 9, through Blue Note Records.
Who wrote the Christmas duet?
The song was written by Norah Jones and producer Leon Michels.
How did Norah Jones and Chris Stapleton connect for the song?
After finishing the track, Norah Jones imagined Chris Stapleton singing it. Willie Nelson’s longtime harmonica player, Mickey Raphael, helped facilitate the connection between the two artists.
What style of music is ‘April’s Gone’?
Unlike upbeat holiday jingles, ‘April’s Gone’ is a slow, four-and-a-half-minute ballad featuring a sparse arrangement of piano, bass, and drums that blends jazz-pop and country vocal stylings.
Is ‘April’s Gone’ part of a full Christmas album?
No, the track was released as a standalone digital single and is not currently tied to a full-length collaborative album from Jones and Stapleton.
