Michael English - Little Drummer Boy Lyrics
Lyrics
Come, they told me pa-rum pum pum pum
Our newborn 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
Little Baby 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 our 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
Video
Little Drumer Boy
Meaning & Inspiration
Michael English's rendition of "Little Drummer Boy," released on March 2, 2018, breathes new life into a timeless Christmas narrative, offering listeners a profound spiritual reflection rather than just a seasonal tune. This song, while not directly from biblical scripture, beautifully encapsulates the spirit of the Nativity story by imagining a humble encounter with the newborn King, Jesus. It tells of a young boy, invited to witness the arrival of the Messiah, who feels inadequate because he possesses no grand material gift to present. His eventual offering – his simple drum playing – is a testament to the idea that true worship comes from the heart, given with one's best, regardless of worldly value. The narrative within the song serves as a powerful parable for Christian living, emphasizing humility, sincerity, and the use of one’s unique talents in service to God.
The song’s enduring appeal, especially through English's interpretation, lies in its vivid portrayal of an individual’s desire to honor the divine with personal, unadorned devotion. The opening lines immediately set a scene of reverence, with others bringing "finest gifts" to the "newborn King." This imagery harks back to the Magi, who traveled far to offer gold, frankincense, and myrrh (Matthew 2:11), symbolizing royalty, divinity, and sacrifice. Yet, the drummer boy finds himself in stark contrast to this display of wealth, confessing, "I am a poor boy too, I have no gift to bring That's fit to give our King." This moment of vulnerability and perceived unworthiness resonates deeply with the human condition, mirroring our own feelings of inadequacy when contemplating God's majesty. It subtly reminds us that God does not require us to be wealthy or powerful to approach Him, but rather to come as we are, acknowledging our limitations.
The pivotal turning point in the song's narrative, and its profound spiritual message, arrives with the question, "Shall I play for you, on my drum?" This simple inquiry represents the offering of oneself, of one's unique talent and passion, to God. It's an echo of the biblical principle found in Romans 12:6, which speaks of having different gifts according to the grace given to us. The drummer boy's drum, a seemingly small and insignificant instrument compared to royal treasures, becomes his instrument of worship. The lyrics describe Mary nodding in encouragement, and even the "Ox and Lamb kept time," creating a serene, divinely sanctioned atmosphere for his offering. This detail beautifully illustrates the acceptance of God through His earthly representatives, signifying that even the most humble offering, given sincerely, finds favor. The core of Christian service is not just about grand gestures but about faithfully using what God has given us, however small or simple it may seem (1 Peter 4:10).
Michael English's delivery, with his powerful yet tender vocal, underscores the conviction and sincerity of the drummer boy’s offering, leading to the heartwarming climax: "I played my best for Him, Then He smiled at me Me and my drum." This smile from the newborn Jesus is the ultimate affirmation, a profound depiction of divine acceptance and joy. It transcends material value, signifying that God delights in the heart of the giver, not just the gift itself. This sentiment is beautifully captured in 2 Corinthians 9:7, which teaches that "God loves a cheerful giver," focusing on the attitude behind the giving. The drummer boy’s experience becomes a timeless spiritual lesson: God is not impressed by the outward show, but by the purity of heart and the genuine effort put forth in His honor. Playing "my best for Him" aligns with Colossians 3:23, urging us to "whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters." This message encourages us all to bring our true selves, our unique skills, and our earnest efforts into our worship and service, trusting that these humble offerings, given with love, are perfectly fit for our King. The song leaves us inspired, reminding us that every individual has a unique "drum" to play, a distinct way to honor the divine, and that such heartfelt devotion is always met with the loving smile of acceptance.