When Bing Crosby passed away in October 1977, the world lost not just a legendary singer, but the man whose voice had become the very sound of American Christmas, comfort, and calm. But no tribute to Bing felt more heartfelt—or more fitting—than the one delivered by his longtime friend and fellow gentleman of song, Perry Como.
In the months following Bing’s death, Perry Como paid tribute to him during several live performances and television appearances, most memorably during his own Christmas special and musical segments that year. The tone was never overly dramatic, never self-important. Instead, it was soft, reflective, and deeply respectful—just as Bing himself might have preferred.
The two crooners had long shared more than a style—they shared a quiet dignity, a humble grace, and a genuine affection for timeless melodies. Perry often credited Bing as a trailblazer, saying that Crosby made it possible for singers like him to succeed. There was no rivalry—just admiration. And when Perry sang songs like “White Christmas” or “Too-Ra-Loo-Ra-Loo-Ral” in tribute, it wasn’t imitation. It was remembrance.
Perry’s voice—soothing as always—carried the weight of grief with gentleness. There was something particularly moving about watching Como sing Bing’s classics with eyes slightly lowered, smile tinged with sadness, and a delivery that made it clear: this wasn’t just a song. It was goodbye.
In one televised moment, Perry simply introduced a Crosby favorite by saying, “This one’s for Bing.” No fanfare. No spotlight. Just the music—and the memory.
Today, for those who remember both artists, Perry Como’s tribute to Bing Crosby remains a rare and beautiful gesture—one great voice saluting another, not with grandeur, but with grace. It reminds us that legends, too, have heroes. And sometimes, the most powerful tributes are the ones sung softly, from the heart.
Video
cuong