Little Drummer BoyChristmas Carol LyricsCome they told me, pa rum pum pum pum
So to honor Him, pa rum pum pum pum,
Little Baby, pa rum pum pum pum
Shall I play for you, pa rum pum pum pum,
Mary nodded, pa rum pum pum pum
Then He smiled at me, pa rum pum pum pum
About This CarolThe Little Drummer Boy is a modern carol that has become a Christmas staple thanks to its tender narrative and steady, rhythmic refrain. Originally titled Carol of the Drum, the song was written in 1941 by American composer Katherine K. Davis, who based it loosely on a traditional Czech story. It was later arranged and popularized by the Trapp Family Singers (yes, the real-life inspiration for The Sound of Music) in the 1950s. The song tells the fictional story of a poor boy who is invited to visit the baby Jesus. With no material gift to offer, he plays his drum instead, giving what he can from the heart. The “pa rum pum pum pum” refrain mimics the soft, steady beat of his humble instrument, creating a meditative rhythm that children and adults alike find deeply moving. In 1958, a recording by the Harry Simeone Chorale brought The Little Drummer Boy to widespread popularity (see video below), and since then, it has been recorded by countless artists, from Johnny Cash to Pentatonix. Its universal message - that the simplest gifts given with love are the most meaningful - resonates across generations and traditions. Whether sung by choirs or soloists, this carol continues to march steadily into hearts each Christmas, reminding us that sincerity and selflessness are at the very core of the holiday spirit. Performance Video |