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Did David Bowie Actually Sing with Bing Crosby? Unveiling the Truth
When it comes to legendary musical collaborations, one that often sparks curiosity is the supposed duet between David Bowie and Bing Crosby. The idea of these two iconic artists coming together seems almost too good to be true. But did it actually happen? Let’s dive into the details and uncover the truth behind this intriguing musical rumor.
Contrary to popular belief, David Bowie did indeed sing with Bing Crosby. The unlikely pairing took place on September 11, 1977, when Bowie appeared as a guest on Bing Crosby’s television special, “Bing Crosby’s Merrie Olde Christmas.” The show was recorded in London, just a month before Crosby’s untimely death.
The duet in question was a rendition of the classic Christmas carol, “Little Drummer Boy.” Bowie and Crosby’s voices blended harmoniously as they delivered a heartfelt performance. The unlikely combination of Bowie’s avant-garde style and Crosby’s traditional crooning created a unique and memorable rendition of the beloved holiday song.
So, how did this unexpected collaboration come to be? The story goes that Bowie was initially reluctant to perform “Little Drummer Boy” as he felt it didn’t align with his artistic vision. However, the show’s producers convinced him to participate by allowing him to add a new verse to the song. Bowie’s addition, titled “Peace on Earth,” provided a contrasting and thought-provoking counterpoint to the original lyrics.
The performance was met with widespread acclaim and has since become a cherished moment in music history. The duet showcased the versatility and talent of both Bowie and Crosby, proving that great music knows no boundaries.
Despite the success of their collaboration, it’s important to note that Bowie and Crosby never recorded any other songs together. Their duet on “Bing Crosby’s Merrie Olde Christmas” remains a unique and special occurrence in their respective careers.
In conclusion, the rumor that David Bowie actually sang with Bing Crosby is indeed true. Their duet on “Little Drummer Boy” is a testament to the power of unexpected musical partnerships and continues to captivate audiences to this day. So, next time you hear this iconic rendition during the holiday season, you can appreciate the magic that happened when two musical legends came together.
