Little Drummer Boy
Bing Crosby / David Bowie Lyrics
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Lights out was sounded long ago
So close your eyes my little drummer boy
And dream of the ones that you love so
Reveille will sound in the morning
Once more on parade you will go
So close your eyes my little drummer boy
So close your eyes my little drummer boy
And say goodnight to all your friends and foes.
The lyrics to Bing Crosby and David Bowie's song Little Drummer Boy are quite simple but carry a profound message. The song is about a young drummer boy who has had a long day, and it’s time for him to go to bed. The lights have been turned off for some time now, but as a child, he has been unable to sleep. It is at this point that his mentor, likely a military officer or an experienced drummer, approaches the child and urges him to close his eyes and dream about his loved ones.
The second paragraph of the song indicates that the young drummer boy will be awakened in the morning when reveille is sounded for parade. It’s likely that the boy is a soldier at war, and his job is to play the drums to lead his fellow soldiers during the parade. Despite having friends and possibly enemies on the opposite side, the mentor still urges the young boy to say goodnight to all of them. The message here is that even though there might be differences between us, we must still show respect and care for others, including our enemies.
Line by Line Meaning
The day is ended little drummer boy
The day has come to a close, little drummer boy.
Lights out was sounded long ago
It's been a while since the lights were turned off, indicating bedtime.
So close your eyes my little drummer boy
It's time to shut your eyes, dear drummer boy.
And dream of the ones that you love so
Think happy thoughts and dream about the people you love.
Reveille will sound in the morning
You'll hear the call to wake up in the morning, drummer boy.
Once more on parade you will go
You'll be marching in the parade again tomorrow, like you always do.
So close your eyes my little drummer boy
It's time to go to bed, dear little drummer boy.
And say goodnight to all your friends and foes.
Wish everyone a good night, no matter if they are friend or foe.
Lyrics © Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC, Warner/Chappell Music, Inc.
Written by: HENRY ONORATI, KATHERINE K DAVIS, HARRY SIMEONE
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind