During last year’s Kennedy Center Honors, Adam Lambert warbled a lovely, scaled-back, acoustic cover of “Believe” to honoree Cher. Now he’s released a studio version in time for Christmas.

Said Lambert on Instagram: “It’s been a year since I performed this cover live for @cher at the #kennedycenterhonors. A lot of you have mentioned wanting a studio recording- so here’s a little holiday gift from me to you. Thank you for being the most loyal and dedicated fans this queen could ask for! 

Listen below. Without the autotune and dance beat, it’s a completely different song… and I like it!

(photo: Avalon)