Norah Jones and Chris Stapleton Release Christmas Duet Aprils Gone

Norah Jones and Chris Stapleton released their first duet, Aprils Gone, on October 9, 2026, through Blue Note as a Christmas song about a fading relationship seeking renewal. The track was written by Jones and producer Leon Michels and combines their jazz and country influences.

According to Universal Music, the song presents a story of two people whose relationship has weakened and who look to the holiday season for a renewed connection. The release adds another seasonal recording to Jones career following her 2021 holiday album I Dream Of Christmas.

The collaboration developed after Jones and Michels completed the song and considered Stapleton for the vocal part. Jones explained that Mickey Raphael helped connect the artists before Stapleton sent a recording of himself performing the song.

"After Leon and I wrote April’s Gone, I couldn’t stop hearing Chris’ voice in my head singing it. 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." said Norah Jones, singer-songwriter.

Jones has worked with Michels since I Dream Of Christmas, and he also produced her 2024 studio album Visions, which according to Universal Music earned Jones her 10th GRAMMY Award. Stapleton brings his country background to a track built around a slower holiday ballad style.

The song features piano, bass, drums, and blues and jazz elements, according to Universal Music Japan. Its arrangement contrasts seasonal imagery with lyrics focused on the end of a relationship and hopes for emotional recovery.

April’s Gone is not connected to a new album from either artist. Jones has also announced Playing Along, Volume 2, a Record Store Day Black Friday exclusive LP scheduled for November 27, 2026, featuring performances from the second season of her podcast Norah Jones Is Playing Along.

The upcoming vinyl collection includes collaborations with artists such as Lucinda Williams, Jason Isbell, Joshua Homme, Lucius, Meshell Ndegeocello, Ron Carter, Bill Frisell, and Josh Groban, according to Universal Music.