Johnny Mathis

Little Drummer Boy — Johnny Mathis

Explore “Little Drummer Boy” by Johnny Mathis: lyrics, the linked video and artist background on Santa Radio.

Individual performer: Johnny Mathis

Open the full sing-along lyrics page

Artist background

Johnny Mathis built his career on romantic ballads and a voice that makes even a familiar melody feel intimate. Christmas became an important part of his repertoire, with “When a Child Is Born” reaching the UK Christmas number one spot in 1976. It’s a gentle, hopeful performance for a quieter moment in a busy season.

Show Lyrics — Little 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. 

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 the 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.
Johnny Mathis illustrated artwork

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