Introduction
“Peace on Earth/Little Drummer Boy” is a timeless Christmas duet performed by two iconic artists, David Bowie and Bing Crosby. This unique collaboration brings together the contemporary rock star and the classic crooner, blending their distinct styles to create a memorable holiday classic. The song, which combines “The Little Drummer Boy” with a counterpoint melody of “Peace on Earth,” continues to resonate with audiences for its warmth, harmony, and message of peace.
“Peace on Earth/Little Drummer Boy” By David Bowie & Bing Crosby Lyrics
Lyrics
Come they told me pa-rum-pum-pum-pum
A newborn king to see pa-rum-pum-pum-pum
Our finest gifts we bring pa-rum-pum-pum-pum
Rum-pum-pum-pum, rum-pum-pum-pum
Peace on Earth can it be?
Years from now, perhaps we’ll see?
See the day of glory
See the day, when men of goodwill
Live in peace, live in peace again
Peace on Earth
Can it be
Every child must be made aware
Every child must be made to care
Care enough for his fellow man
To give all the love that he can
I pray my wish will come true
For my child and your child too
He’ll see the day of glory
See the day when men of goodwill
Live in peace, live in peace again
Peace on Earth
Can it be
Can it be
Watch and Download “Peace on Earth/Little Drummer Boy” By David Bowie & Bing Crosby
History
The duet was recorded in September 1977 for Bing Crosby’s television special, Bing Crosby’s Merrie Olde Christmas. At the time, David Bowie was already an established rock star known for his avant-garde style, while Bing Crosby was a legendary figure in the music industry, renowned for his smooth voice and classic holiday tunes. The pairing of Bowie and Crosby was unexpected, but it resulted in a powerful and enduring performance.
Initially, Bowie was hesitant to perform “The Little Drummer Boy,” feeling it did not suit his style. To accommodate his preferences, the musical director, Ian Fraser, along with Buz Kohan and Larry Grossman, composed the “Peace on Earth” counterpoint, which Bowie sang alongside Crosby’s rendition of “The Little Drummer Boy.” The result was a seamless and beautiful blend of the two melodies, creating a harmonious dialogue between the two artists.
Tragically, Bing Crosby passed away just a month after the recording, making this one of his final performances. The special aired posthumously in November 1977, and the duet quickly became a holiday favorite. In 1982, due to popular demand, the recording was released as a single, reaching high positions on music charts and solidifying its place as a Christmas classic.
Conclusion
“Peace on Earth/Little Drummer Boy” by David Bowie and Bing Crosby remains a beloved holiday song, cherished for its blend of tradition and modernity, as well as its powerful message of peace. The unlikely collaboration between the two artists has transcended time, becoming a symbol of unity and goodwill during the Christmas season. The song’s enduring popularity is a testament to the magic that can happen when two musical legends come together to create something truly special.
