In 1977, an unlikely holiday duet between David Bowie and Bing Crosby almost didn’t happen as planned. Bowie's hesitance about the original song led to a rapid rewrite, transforming their Christmas special into one of the most cherished seasonal performances ever.
- David Bowie initially resisted the planned duet song.
- Songwriters created a new counter-melody in about an hour.
- Their collaboration became a Christmas music staple.
What happened
In September 1977, Bing Crosby was filming his Christmas special in England and invited David Bowie to join him in performing the classic 'Little Drummer Boy.' Despite the warm setting, Bowie wasn’t enthusiastic about the chosen song, feeling it didn’t suit his range or style. This presented a challenge as the production was already well underway.
To address Bowie’s concerns, songwriters Alan 'Buz' Kohan, Larry Grossman, and music director Ian Fraser quickly composed a new counter-melody called 'Peace on Earth.' This addition harmonized with 'Little Drummer Boy' and showcased both artists’ unique strengths, allowing the duet to come together in just about an hour before filming the performance.
Why it feels good
The duet beautifully unites two contrasting voices and generations, embodying a spirit of harmony and collaboration. Bing Crosby’s familiar baritone carries warmth and tradition, while Bowie’s soaring vocals bring a fresh, soulful edge. This unexpected combination creates a magical listening experience that resonates during the holiday season.
The quick creative response to Bowie's hesitance illustrates how adaptability and teamwork can turn a potential obstacle into an enduring success. It reminds us that even unlikely partnerships can produce timeless art, capturing the joy and surprise that the holidays inspire.
What to enjoy or watch next
If you haven’t yet experienced the iconic 'Peace on Earth/Little Drummer Boy' duet, the Christmas special featuring Bing Crosby and David Bowie is a must-watch. Their performance offers a rare glimpse at two musical legends bridging very different styles with grace and charm.
For fans of holiday music with a twist, exploring Bowie’s other seasonal or collaborative works can be enjoyable, while revisiting Crosby’s classic recordings reminds us of the timeless appeal of traditional holiday tunes. Together, these selections offer a festive soundtrack full of heart and history.