Sissel - The Little Drummer Boy Lyrics

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Who originally wrote 'The Little Drummer Boy'?

   'The Little Drummer Boy,' originally known as 'Carol of the Drum,' was written by American composer Katherine Kennicott Davis in 1941.

2. When was the first recording of 'The Little Drummer Boy' made?

   'The Little Drummer Boy' was first recorded in 1951 by the Austrian Trapp Family.

3. Who popularized 'The Little Drummer Boy' in the United States?

   The Harry Simeone Chorale popularized 'The Little Drummer Boy' in the United States with their 1958 recording, which became a significant hit.

4. What are the key themes in the lyrics of 'The Little Drummer Boy'?

   In 'The Little Drummer Boy,' the lyrics tell the story of a poor young boy who, summoned by the Magi, plays his drum for the newborn Jesus as he has no other gift to offer.

5. Is the story of 'The Little Drummer Boy' historically or biblically accurate?

   No, the story of 'The Little Drummer Boy' is not biblically accurate. It is a fictional tale inspired by various musical traditions.

6. What musical elements are characteristic of 'The Little Drummer Boy'?

   The song features a distinctive 'pa rum pum pum pum' drum rhythm, which was inspired by Katherine Kennicott Davis's translation of a French song 'Patapan' into this rhythmic pattern.