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In a unique cross-generational collaboration, BTS member Kim Taehyung, known as V, is set to release a duet of Bing Crosby's timeless classic, White Christmas. The song, reimagined in partnership with the Bing Crosby Estate, Primary Wave Music, and Geffen Records, will debut on December 6, 2024.
This marks a significant moment in musical history as it bridges the 1940s jazz era with modern K-pop, offering a fresh take on a cherished holiday staple. On Thursday, December 5, 2024, Dispatch reported that Bing Crosby's team, Primary Wave, approached BIGHIT MUSIC (now HYBE Labels) to express their wish to collaborate with BTS' V for the song.
Primary Wave hailed Taehyung as the "perfect artist" for the upcoming duet and said:
"We believed V would be the perfect artist to duet on 'White Christmas.'"
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They stressed how the collaboration with Taehyung felt "natural" and added:
"'White Christmas' is a universally beloved carol, and it felt natural to select it for a collaboration with V. V's passion and love for the duet made this project truly special. The harmony between their voices will be stunning, and V's heartfelt interpretation is sure to resonate deeply with global music fans."
As a result, the news went viral online as the BTS ARMY lauded Taehyung for his global influence. One fan wrote on X:
"This is such an honor ! To be able to collab with an artist of this genre and caliber is such an amazing privilege.. our Taehyung is so deserving and will please all who listens .. they will harmonize beautifully! Can’t wait"
Fans praised the teaser audio clip of the song shared by Geffen Records and Bing Crosby's team on December 1, 2024.
"The little piece we heard already sounds soooooo good," one fan wrote.
"Can't wait to listen to this classic. A perfect song for the season," another fan wrote.
"This is cool!! It’s such a beautiful collaboration as it reaches across age, race, and culture! Kim Taehyung! You are a trailblazer!!" one other fan added.
Others boasted with pride that the BTS idol was approached by Bing Crosby's team first for his unique baritones.
"A satisfying behind the story for all who exclaimed how did this happen or is it a collab? Yes it’s a collab and V was chosen for his love of Bing Crosby classics and sincere passion for music!" one fan noted.
"This was said when the announcement was made on Nov 6th, not too clearly but it was there, however reading it again n having it in clear is always good n reassuring. Tae being in demand, loved, and respected for his love for music, isn’t surprising at all, not for us at least," another fan said.
"That’s on real impact!!" another fan wrote.
Kim Taehyung of BTS collaborates with Bing Crosby for a new version of White Christmas
Bing Crosby’s original White Christmas, released in 1942, became an iconic piece of American culture. Written by Irving Berlin, the song was first featured in the film Holiday Inn and went on to win the Academy Award for Best Original Song in 1943.
With over 50 million copies sold worldwide, it remains the best-selling physical single of all time. Bing Crosby, known as the "Voice of Christmas," was a trailblazing American singer and actor whose smooth baritone left a lasting legacy across film, radio, and music.
Taehyung expressed deep admiration for Bing Crosby, stating he grew up listening to his music, particularly the song It’s Been a Long, Long Time. He approached the duet with heartfelt sincerity, hoping to preserve the nostalgic essence of the track while adding his unique vocal style.
Crosby’s family, including his daughter Mary, praised the collaboration, emphasizing how beautifully their voices blend to encapsulate the holiday spirit. Bing Crosby's family told Billboard:
"As a family, we are thrilled to have V and Dad singing together on this ultimate Christmas song. Their voices blend beautifully, capturing the holiday spirit in the best possible way."
This duet follows Crosby's tradition of festive collaborations, such as his 1977 duet The Little Drummer Boy/Peace on Earth with David Bowie. For Taehyung, the collaboration continues his artistic exploration beyond BTS, showcasing his sultry voice and love for jazz-inspired melodies. His solo album Layover (2023) further highlighted his versatility, solidifying his reputation as a global star.
Fans can anticipate the song and exclusive themed merchandise, including holiday vinyl and CD options. With this collaboration, BTS' V and Bing Crosby’s team hoped to unite listeners worldwide, evoking joy and warmth during the festive season.
The duet will be available on all major streaming platforms on December 6 at 2 PM KST. This project serves as a posthumous work of the late American musician and legendary artist Bing Crosby.
