The Little Drummer Boy
Bing Crosby/David Bowie Lyrics

The Little Drummer Boy is a popular Christmas carol that tells the story of a young boy who is summoned by the Magi to play his drums for the newborn baby Jesus. The boy is poor and doesn't have any gifts to present to the baby, so he offers to play his drum as a tribute. The song is a beautiful ode to humility, simplicity, and how everyone has something to offer, whether rich or poor.

The first stanza begins with the call to action: "Come, they told me pa-rum pum pum pum, our newborn King to see, pa-rum pum pum pum." The boy is excited to see the baby Jesus and to honor him. In the second stanza, the boy realizes he doesn't have anything to bring as a gift, but suggests that he could play his drum as a tribute. Mary nods in agreement, and the animals in the stable keep time with the boy's drumming.

The final stanza is the most poignant and emotional: "I played my drum for Him pa-rum pum pum pum; I played my best for Him pa-rum pum pum pum. Then He smiled at me pa-rum pum pum pum, me and my drum." The young boy realizes that the greatest gift he can offer is himself, his talents, and his heart. This song is a beautiful reminder that everyone has something to offer, and that the simplest of gifts can be the most meaningful.