Susan Boyle Breathes New Life Into 'Little Drummer Boy'

Dec 19, 2019 by apost team

It's hard to forget Susan Boyle's angelic voice. Even those who weren't really fans of Britain's Got Talent in 2009 repeatedly heard how Susan Boyle stole the show. She amazed the hosts, and she endeared herself to the fans. Her now-famous rendition of "I Dreamed A Dream" has been heard around the globe.

During the time the Paul O'Grady Show ran (from 2004 to 2015), Susan Boyle delighted the world again as a guest on that show. In 2013, at Paul O'Grady's invitation, Boyle shared a favorite Christmas carol. And although we'd heard the song before, we were not disappointed.

 Joined by backup singers, Boyle began quietly in her beautiful, clear voice. The background hum and the reverent beginning set the tone for the song we know and love. During the second stanza, real drummer boys join the music. As the song goes on, its quaint tone and familiar rhythm have a comfortable familiarity.

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In an interesting yet unsurprising twist, bagpipes join the scene in the middle of the song. A brief bagpipe solo suddenly feels right at home. At first, the bagpipes seem unexpected, but why? After all, Boyle is Scottish. And the piper in his kilt provides just the solemnity and impressive tone that fits the middle the song. 

When Boyle resumes singing along with the bagpipes, the backup singers move from their introductory hum to full singing. The rich sound lends a triumphant atmosphere that's impossible to ignore.

With the final stanza's words "Then He smiled at me ... me and my drum", the song returns to the quiet reverent tone of the beginning. It's meditative and humble, peaceful and thought-provoking, beautiful. Susan Boyle entered into stardom later in life, and we find her story inspiring because she seems so relatable.

And if we think about it, isn't the Little Drummer Boy's story a little like that? He was a regular guy, humbly presenting what he had. Susan and Drummer Boy: we thank you both for using your resources and talents to enrich lives!

Paul O'Grady described Susan Boyle as a "singing sensation" and an "international star." Do you agree with O'Grady? Tell us what you think - and inspire your friends with the richness of this beautiful music.