What Christmas song was originally titled "Carol of the Drum"? Learn!
"The Little Drummer Boy" is a popular Christmas carol with an interesting history and a few unique facts:
Origins: The song was written by American composer and teacher Katherine Kennicott Davis in 1941. She composed it as "Carol of the Drum" and later it became known as "The Little Drummer Boy."
Inspiration: The lyrics are inspired by a Czech Christmas carol called "Carol of the Drum," which Davis had heard during a visit to Czechoslovakia. The story in the lyrics is a fictional tale about a poor young boy who is invited to see the baby Jesus and offers the gift of playing his drum.
Popular Versions: Over the years, numerous artists have covered "The Little Drummer Boy," resulting in various renditions. One of the most famous versions is the one recorded by the Harry Simeone Chorale in 1958. Other notable versions include those by Bing Crosby, David Bowie, and the Pentatonix.
David Bowie and Bing Crosby Duet: In 1977, David Bowie teamed up with Bing Crosby for a special Christmas duet that included "The Little Drummer Boy." Their performance, recorded for Crosby's television special "Bing Crosby's Merrie Olde Christmas," is particularly memorable as it brought together two artists from different musical genres.
Bowie's Contribution: During the duet, Bowie was initially hesitant about singing "The Little Drummer Boy" because he found the song too "antiquated." As a result, the producers incorporated a new counterpoint melody for Bowie, which became the song "Peace on Earth." The combination of the two songs created a unique and touching performance.
Chart Success: The Harry Simeone Chorale's version of "The Little Drummer Boy" became a hit, reaching number 13 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in 1958. The song's enduring popularity has made it a Christmas classic that continues to be enjoyed by audiences worldwide.
These facts highlight the fascinating history and diverse interpretations of "The Little Drummer Boy" over the years.