Mandisa - Little Drummer Boy Lyrics
Lyrics
Little drummer boy
Drummer boy, drummer boy
Little drummer boy
Drummer boy, drummer boy
Come they told me
Pa rum, pum, pum, pum
A new born King to see
Pa rum, pum, pum, pum
Our finest gifts we bring
Pa rum, pum, pum, pum
To lay before the King
Pa rum, pum, pum, pum
Rum, pum, pum, pum
Rum, pum, pum, pum
So to honor Him
Pa rum, pum, pum, pum
When we come
Baby, Jesu
Pa rum, pum, pum, pum
I am a poor boy too
Pa rum, pum, pum, pum
I have no gift to bring
Pa rum, pum, pum, pum
That's fit to give a king
Pa rum, pum, pum, pum
Rum, pum, pum, pum
Rum, pum, pum, pum
Shall I play for you
Pa rum, pum, pum, pum
On my drum?
Mary nodded
Pa rum, pum, pum, pum
The ox and lamb kept time
Pa rum, pum, pum, pum
I played my drum for Him
Pa rum, pum, pum, pum
I played my best for Him
Pa rum, pum, pum, pum
Rum, pum, pum, pum
Rum, pum, pum, pum
Then He smiled at me
Pa rum, pum, pum, pum
Me and my drum
Then He smiled at me
Pa rum, pum, pum, pum
Me and my drum
Little drummer boy
Drummer boy, drummer boy
Little drummer boy
Drummer boy, drummer boy
Little drummer boy
Little drummer boy
Drummer boy, drummer boy
Video
Little Drummer Boy
Meaning & Inspiration
Mandisa's rendition of "Little Drummer Boy," found on her 2012 album *It's Christmas (Christmas Angel Edition)*, offers a poignant and deeply spiritual interpretation of this timeless carol. The song transcends its familiar melody to illuminate a profound theological message: the humble offering of what one has, even when it seems insignificant, is a gift of immense value to our King. The narrative of the song centers on a young boy, a "poor boy too," who lacks the traditional riches or grand presents to lay at the feet of the newborn Jesus. This scarcity, however, does not render him without purpose or the ability to offer worship. Instead, he finds his unique gift in the rhythm of his drum.
The story powerfully echoes Old Testament prophecies and New Testament truths about God's love for the humble and those who approach Him with sincere hearts. Isaiah 60:6 speaks of people bringing gold and frankincense, but the Little Drummer Boy’s offering is far more personal and heartfelt. His gift is the sound of his devotion, a gift born of his own skills and spirit. This resonates with the concept presented in 1 Samuel 16:7, where God looks at the heart, not outward appearances. The boy’s willingness to offer his only talent—his drumming—is an act of profound faith. It demonstrates that true worship isn't about the magnitude of the gift, but the love and intention behind it. This aligns with Jesus' own teaching in Mark 12:43-44, where he commends the poor widow who gave her last two mites, highlighting that her small offering was considered great because it was all she had.
The lyrics beautifully capture this sentiment when the boy asks, "Shall I play for you, on my drum?" This simple question is an invitation to connect, to share his inner being through his art. The response from Mary, a gentle nod, and the quiet keeping of time by the ox and lamb, signifies a sacred acceptance. It’s a moment where the divine embraces the human offering, no matter how simple. The repeated phrase, "I played my best for Him," underscores the dedication and love poured into his performance. This echoes the sentiment of Colossians 3:23: "Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters." The ultimate affirmation comes in the "He smiled at me." This divine smile is not just a personal validation for the drummer boy, but a powerful symbol of God's pleasure in sincere worship, regardless of its earthly presentation. Mandisa's delivery imbues this narrative with warmth and a profound understanding of the Gospel message: that every believer, no matter their circumstances or perceived limitations, has something precious to offer God, and that our willingness to give from the heart is what truly honors Him. This version of "Little Drummer Boy" encourages listeners to consider their own unique gifts and the power of offering them joyfully to the Lord Jesus.