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David Bowie’s Christmas Duet: A Last-Minute Decision

12/27/2025

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Summary

Story summary

David Bowie nearly declined his 1977 Merrie Olde Christmas duet with Bing Crosby, objecting to "Little Drummer Boy."
He agreed to participate only because his mother loved Crosby.
The show's writers adapted the performance into a mash-up with "Peace on Earth."
The duet reached No. 3 on the UK Singles chart and sold over 400,000 copies in the UK.
The special also featured performances from Twiggy and other notable guests.

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Story summary

David Bowie nearly declined his 1977 Merrie Olde Christmas duet with Bing Crosby, objecting to "Little Drummer Boy."
He agreed to participate only because his mother loved Crosby.
The show's writers adapted the performance into a mash-up with "Peace on Earth."
The duet reached No. 3 on the UK Singles chart and sold over 400,000 copies in the UK.
The special also featured performances from Twiggy and other notable guests.