2000s ICON ALYA TELLS ALL ABOUT HER ‘SILENT NIGHT’ WITH ERIC CLAPTON, COSY NEW CHRISTMAS ALBUM, AND DREAM XMAS DINNER GUESTS

INTERVIEW | ALYA by Martha Munro

Not many people can say they’ve worked with a legend to the calibre of Eric Clapton. And in fact, no one can say they’ve made a Christmas song with him – until now. That’s right: universally adored Alya’s new version of Silent Night was made with the rockstar himself. We got the chance to ask her a few burning questions about it, but also about her own, sparkling new Christmas album, No More Lonely Christmas, and her favourite festive memories… 

First of all, the elephant in the room — your Christmas collab with Eric Clapton. How did this come about?

My music partner Tim Carmon and I were looking for someone special to collaborate with on my Christmas record. Until Eric actually appeared on Silent Night, I didn’t even know this was even a possibility.

Tim played Eric my Christmas EP right before distribution. Eric listened and said, “She has such a lovely voice… you think I should do something here?” Can you imagine that? So sweet and so down-to-earth.

The rest is history. What makes me incredibly proud is that I’m the only artist he has ever made a Christmas song with. It feels rare, intimate, and truly special.

But beyond the honor, the record itself is beautiful – instantly recognizable and classy, something I can listen to on repeat. It’s calming, inspiring, and festive. And every time our vocals float together in perfect harmony, my heart becomes completely pure, like in childhood when everything was taken care of and a warm cup of hot chocolate was waiting for me at home.

What was the creative process like with Clapton in the studio?

We didn’t record in the same room. I hope to experience that one day, and hopefully share a stage as well. Eric recorded his vocals in the UK while I was in Los Angeles, but you’d never know it from the song.

It flows effortlessly. The energy is there, the synergy is there – the connection is unmistakable.

Your whole festive album, No More Lonely Christmas, is out for the season too. Why Christmas music? What makes this album special for you?

I’m a big fan of the winter holidays. A Christmas tree brings so many beautiful memories for me. I even collect unusual ornaments – my latest find was a set from a London flea market.

Christmas is a time when everything feels possible. It’s a season of unconditional miracles, anticipation, unity… and remembering who we truly are. A moment to think of others and to help.

The title track, No More Lonely Christmas, is inspired by that spirit. I wanted to create a really upbeat and fun song for people who are spending the holidays alone — something to lift them up, shake off the blues, and make them dance.

We actually debuted the song in several shelters across Los Angeles, and the tears of joy from people there were the sweetest reward imaginable.

What’s your favorite Christmas memory?

Unwrapping candies from my holiday stocking before my brother could get to them!

If you could invite three artists, dead or alive, to join you at Christmas dinner, who would you pick?

I’d choose Barbra Streisand – and I was actually lucky enough to have her at my table not long ago. She’s infectious and funny. Not sure she celebrates Christmas, but she sure would appreciate the good food!

Celine Dion is my favorite vocalist of all time. I grew up on her music, and I feel so many personal similarities with her. She even folds her socks like me – I saw that in her documentary!

Lastly,  Adele – she’s brilliant and absolutely hilarious. The four  of us together at a Christmas dinner? We would have an unforgettable blast.