Most people think of the holidays and envision coming together with loved ones.
Unfortunately, this family time that most of us take for granted can be a little more difficult for those in the armed forces.
Families with loved ones in the armed services may be missing them during the season; similarly, those who are serving may wish they were at home.
Still, we often forget that those who are serving in the military also celebrate Christmas in their own way. For instance: did you know that the United States Navy had its own band?
For those who didn’t, this video will change that.
The United States Navy Band is the official musical branch of the US Navy.
That organization has existed since 1925 and, of course, comes with rotating members.
The band performs at all kinds of different events including state funerals, presidential inaugurations, official arrival ceremonies, and more. The group also performs for both civilians and service people alike. Most recently, a video of the band performing a popular Christmas carol was swept the internet.
In the clip, the group performs the old holiday classic “White Christmas” while putting their own spin on it.
The song “White Christmas” was originally written and composed by Irving Berlin, a man considered to be one of the greatest songwriters in history. Since then, it’s been performed by numerous artists, but the most popular version by far is that by Bing Crosby.
As the song begins, the group gives a spoken introduction full of tongue-in-cheekiness:
“Ladies and gentlemen, it’s been said that we don’t do enough of the ‘old’ stuff, or the ‘standards,’ so this next one is for all you original hipsters out there.”
After that, all singers put on black sunglasses and begin their performance.
The version the band performs has its own swing and bounce and is performed in the manner of a barbershop quartet.
The background musicians are as crisp as can be.
At the end of the performance, the band also does a few bars of “Jingle Bells” before the grand finale.
The audience erupts in applause and after seeing the humorous performance, it’s not hard to see why.
The performance has been viewed some 150,000 times so far on YouTube and is likely only to grow as the season continues.
Still, the United States Navy Band has plenty of other song videos on their channel which are equally worthy of mention. In all, the video is a reminder of all Americans serving in the armed forces over the holidays—as well as a gentler reminder to get in the Christmas spirit.
People absolutely love their performance.
Comments posted on the YouTube video read:
“I watch this performance all year long. Such a talented group of musicians throughout the U.S. Navy band.”
“Wow, what a great version. I’ve only just discovered this. These gentlemen have tremendous voices that complement each other.”
“What a great rendition. These guys never fail to impress. And the band is beyond amazing. Bravo to them. GO NAVY!”
See the performance in the video below!
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