The holiday collaboration brings together two country singers whose friendship began with a shared love of music.
Written by Amanda Tempel
Published: November 13, 2026
Jessie James Decker and Jo Dee Messina are celebrating the holiday season together with a new recording of the Christmas classic “Holly Jolly Christmas,” released November 13, 2026. Produced by Eric Arjes, the duet brings together Decker and one of the country music artists she grew up admiring.
The collaboration follows a growing friendship between the two singers. In December 2025, Decker welcomed Messina into her Nashville home for an acoustic performance of Messina's 1999 hit “Lesson in Leavin'” as part of her informal “stair sessions.” The two reunited earlier this month when Decker joined Messina for a performance at The Truth in Nashville.
“Getting to sing ‘Holly Jolly Christmas’ with one of my music idols, Jo Dee Messina, is such a pinch-me moment,” Decker said. “I grew up loving her voice, and now I get to call her my friend, something that will never stop feeling special.”
Decker also reflected on their recent performance together.
“When she asked me to do a show with her, I was over the moon. Sharing the stage and a little Christmas magic with someone I admire so much is a memory I’ll treasure forever.”
For Messina, the opportunity to record a Christmas song with Decker was an easy decision.
“Jessie called with this idea and I jumped on it. Christmas is my favorite time of year and Jessie is one of my favorite people,” Messina said. “We always have so much fun together. Why not bring that fun together for some holiday joy that we can share with other people.”
A Busy Year for Both Country Artists
The holiday duet arrives during an eventful year for both singers.
Messina released Bridges, her first studio album in more than a decade. The project, written almost entirely by Messina, reflects on personal experiences involving faith, family, heartbreak, and perseverance.
She has continued touring in support of the album, performing to sold-out crowds in multiple markets. Her current radio single, “Message in a Bottle,” is also making its way up the country radio charts.
Decker, meanwhile, released her latest cookbook, The Secret Sauce, on October 6 through HarperCollins. Co-written with her sister Sydney Rae Bass and mother Karen Parker, the book became a New York Times bestseller, marking Decker's third appearance on the bestseller list.
She also expanded her business ventures with the launch of JJD Fit Club, a wellness platform that has attracted approximately 40,000 paid subscribers since its summer debut.
Despite their busy schedules, Decker and Messina found time to come together for a holiday recording that celebrates both their friendship and a familiar Christmas favorite.
Listen to Jessie James Decker and Jo Dee Messina's “Holly Jolly Christmas”
Single Artwork: Grace Kirkman