Bing Crosby, the legendary Christmas crooner, has been spreading joy and warmth for decades with his unforgettable rendition of “White Christmas”. But did you know about his special collaboration with David Bowie? In 1977, just a month before Crosby’s passing, these two iconic artists came together to perform “Peace on Earth/Little Drummer Boy” – a beautiful Christmas song that has since become a classic.
At first, David Bowie, known for his eclectic style and rock music, was not fond of “Little Drummer Boy” and was hesitant to sing it with Bing Crosby. However, he agreed to appear on Crosby’s Christmas special because of his mother’s admiration for the legendary singer. To address Bowie’s reservations, the show’s writers, Larry Grossman and Buz Kohan, came up with an ingenious solution.
They created a counter-melody for Bowie to sing simultaneously with Crosby’s rendition of “Little Drummer Boy”. This new melody, titled “Peace on Earth”, added a unique twist to the song. Together with the original lyrics, the duet became a harmonious blend of two different voices, creating a magical Christmas experience.
Although the collaboration between Bing Crosby and David Bowie initially faced challenges, they found common ground as they worked together. When Bowie and his then-wife Angela arrived at the studio, Crosby was taken aback by their unconventional appearance. However, as they collaborated on the song, Crosby began to appreciate Bowie’s talent, describing him as a “clean-cut kid and a real fine asset to the show”.
Tragically, just a month after the recording, Bing Crosby passed away from a heart attack. The world mourned the loss of a music icon, and the Christmas show featuring his duet with Bowie aired after his death. The song became one of Bowie’s most beloved singles, selling an estimated 400,000 copies in the UK alone.
Reflecting on the experience, David Bowie described his time with Bing Crosby as unique. Despite their differences, they managed to create something truly special. Bowie recalled Crosby’s presence on set, saying, “He was just… not there. It was the most bizarre experience. But I knew my mother liked him.”
So, as you listen to the beautiful “Peace on Earth/Little Drummer Boy” duet, remember the heartwarming story behind it. It’s a testament to the power of music and the spirit of Christmas, bringing together two artists from different worlds to create something unforgettable.
