Pentatonix - 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
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
Come, they told me
Pa-rum pum pum pum
Our newborn King to see
Pa-rum pum pum pum
Here I come, here I come
Video
[Official Video] Little Drummer Boy - Pentatonix
Meaning & Inspiration
Pentatonix’s 2013 rendition of “The Little Drummer Boy,” released on November 25th, offers a profound and moving exploration of a classic Christmas narrative, imbued with a palpable sense of awe and devotion that resonates deeply with the song’s spiritual underpinnings. While the original song itself is not explicitly a worship song, Pentatonix’s arrangement elevates it to a level that invites reflection on the humble circumstances of Christ’s birth and the simple, yet profound, offering of a young boy’s musical gift. The power of their performance lies in its masterful vocal layering and dynamic build, creating an atmosphere that mirrors the anticipation and wonder surrounding the Nativity. The arrangement, with its intricate harmonies and the resonant percussive elements that evoke the titular drummer, serves as a sonic testament to the joy and reverence felt by those present at the manger, much like the shepherds rushing to see the newborn King. The song speaks to the universal human desire to contribute something meaningful, even when one possesses little, a sentiment echoed in Scripture where even the smallest acts of faith and love are magnified. Think of the widow’s mite, where her offering, though financially small, was valued greatly because it represented her entire living (Mark 12:41-44). Similarly, the little drummer boy’s offering is not about the skill or grandeur of his drumming, but the purity of his intention and his desire to honor the King. The arrangement’s crescendo builds a sense of joyous proclamation, reminiscent of the angelic hosts declaring “Glory to God in the highest!” (Luke 2:14), and it invites the listener to join in that very sentiment, offering their own unique gifts in praise. Pentatonix’s artistry transforms a simple tale into a rich tapestry of sound, underscoring the profound truth that every soul, no matter how young or seemingly insignificant, has a unique way to honor the Savior, a message that continues to inspire and uplift during the Christmas season.