Do You Hear What I Hear? - Bing Crosby
"Do You Hear What I Hear?" is a Christmas song performed by Bing Crosby. The song was written in 1962 by Noel Regney and Gloria Shayne Baker as a plea for peace during the Cuban Missile Crisis. It was first recorded by the Harry Simeone Chorale, but Bing Crosby's version quickly became the most popular. The song tells the story of a shepherd boy who hears a message from the wind and the sky, asking him to spread the word of peace. The boy then tells the king, who in turn tells the people everywhere to pray for peace. The composition of the song is simple yet powerful, with a haunting melody that captures the essence of the message of peace and hope. Bing Crosby's smooth, soothing vocals add to the emotional impact of the song, making it a holiday classic that continues to be loved by audiences around the world. Notable facts about the song include its origins as a plea for peace during a tumultuous time in history, as well as its enduring popularity as a Christmas classic. Bing Crosby's version of "Do You Hear What I Hear?" is considered one of the best renditions of the song, showcasing his talent as a singer and his ability to convey the message of peace and hope through music.
Bing Crosby
Bing Crosby, born Harry Lillis Crosby Jr. on May 3, 1903, in Tacoma, Washington, was an American singer and actor who became one of the most popular and influential entertainers of the 20th century. Known for his smooth baritone voice and relaxed singing style, Crosby was a pioneer in the development of the popular music industry and is often credited with helping to shape the sound of modern pop music. Growing up in a musical family, Crosby began performing at a young age and got his start in show business as a member of a local singing group. He quickly rose to fame in the 1930s, becoming one of the first multimedia stars with successful careers in radio, film, and music. Crosby's distinctive voice and charismatic personality made him a household name, and he became one of the top-selling recording artists of his time. Crosby's career was marked by numerous achievements, including over 400 hit singles, 1 billion records sold worldwide, and 23 gold and platinum records. He won an Academy Award for his performance in the film "Going My Way" in 1944 and received three Grammy Awards for his contributions to the music industry. Crosby's rendition of the song "White Christmas" remains one of the best-selling singles of all time and has become a holiday classic. In addition to his musical accomplishments, Crosby was also a successful actor, starring in over 70 films and television shows throughout his career. He was known for his easygoing charm and natural acting ability, earning critical acclaim for his performances in both comedic and dramatic roles. Crosby's impact on music is undeniable, as he helped to popularize the concept of the crooner and paved the way for future generations of singers. His smooth vocal delivery and innovative use of technology, such as the microphone, influenced countless artists and helped to shape the sound of popular music for decades to come. Bing Crosby passed away on October 14, 1977, but his legacy lives on through his timeless music and iconic performances. He is remembered as one of the greatest entertainers of all time, whose influence can still be heard in the music of today.