Did you know that there’s a classic Christmas video featuring David Bowie and Bing Crosby singing “Little Drummer Boy/Peace on Earth?” If not, then let me tell you that this video is a Christmas tradition, you must start watching with your family and friends every year for so many reasons. First of all, you get to watch two cross-genre music icons teaming up for the very first time to sing a beautiful Christmas duet together. On top of that, their version of this song has become a holiday favorite in millions of homes all over the world. And then there’s the hilarious and corny back-and-forth banter between Crosby and Bowie that just ties a ribbon around the whole package.
As a matter of fact, this video is so popular that a few years ago, actor John C. Reilly and Will Ferrell (the stars of movies such as ‘Talladega Nights” and “Step-Brothers” teamed up to do a remake of this video. Unlike many other types of parodies, this one was played straight, meaning they copied every word and shot of the video without embellishment. After you’ve seen the original video, you should check out their parody; it will crack you up, guaranteed.
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The original video was made as part of a narrative film called “Bing Crosby’s Merrie Olde Christmas.” It’s a part of a story where Bing Crosby goes to England after learning that he has a distant relative named Sir Percival Crosby, who invites him and his family to spend Christmas at his villa.
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Something else that makes this video such a gem is the fact that it was released weeks after Bing Crosby’s death.
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There are a lot of classic moments in the video. For instance, in the story, Bowie has no idea who Bing Crosby is when he arrives at the door.
Bowie- “Hello, are you the new butler?”
Bing- “It’s been a long time since I’ve been the new anything”
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After that, Bowie finally introduces himself, followed by a bit more witty back and forth, then Crosby speaks.
Bowie- “Are you related to Sir Percival?
Bing- “Well distantly”
Bowie- “Oh you’re not the poor relation from America?”
Bing- “Gee news sure travels fast doesn’t it? I’m Bing”
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Now this line could come across as somewhat rude, but Crosby manages to play off it brilliantly.
Bowie- “You’re the one who sings, right?”
Bing- “Well, right or wrong, I sing either way”
Indeed, the slapstick banter between these two makes for some great laughs. After a few more funny exchanges, the two began talking about Christmas. Bowie notes that his six-year-old son happens to love Christmas, and Crosby inquires if Bowie and his family like participating in any Christmas traditions.
Bowie- “Oh yeah most of them really, presents, tree, decorations, agents sliding down the chimney”
Bing- “What?”
Bowie- “I was just seeing if you’re paying attention”
This segment will have you rolling on the floor, but that’s only an appetizer. The main course is listening to these two legends create a delicious melody as they sing side-by-side to create some very unique and heartwarming harmonies.
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Now, back in those days, this video was kind of a big deal. You see, Bowie was more of a contemporary artist compared to Crosby in 1977, which is the year the video was published. Folks found this to be a pretty odd collaboration back then. A more modern example might be Barbara Streisand and Pink.
That said, there are excellent reasons this song makes up a cornerstone for Christmas playlists all over the world.
Below you can find the full video of their incredible performance.
Source: Shareably
