BTS’s V has teamed up with legendary crooner Bing Crosby for a once-in-a-lifetime duet of the holiday classic "White Christmas." The collaboration, which pairs two musical icons from different eras, is set to release globally on December 6, 2023, at 2:00 PM KST / 12:00 AM ET.
V, whose real name is Kim Taehyung, reimagines a portion of Crosby's iconic 1942 hit, bringing his own soulful style and unique interpretation to the song. This special release marks the first time in 47 years that Crosby has appeared on a duet single, following his famous collaboration with David Bowie in 1977.
The partnership stems from V’s longstanding admiration for Crosby, who has been an influence on the BTS member's musical style. V, known for his rich, baritone voice, has previously shared his affection for Crosby's music, even posting a cover of Crosby’s “It’s Been a Long, Long Time” in 2022. In response, Crosby’s official channels expressed their belief that V would be an exceptional jazz crooner, much like the late singer.
"White Christmas (with V of BTS)" is particularly significant, as it is the first-ever duet to be released between Crosby and another artist, despite numerous covers of the song by major stars such as Michael Bublé, Taylor Swift, and Katy Perry. With V’s vocal addition, the song is expected to bring a fresh, heartfelt dimension to the classic, offering fans a nostalgic yet modern twist on the timeless holiday favorite.
The release also highlights V’s continued success as a solo artist. Since the release of his debut solo album Layover in 2022 and his digital single “FRI(END)S” in March 2023, V has showcased his ability to captivate listeners with his deep, soulful voice, earning praise for his artistry and vocal prowess.
With "White Christmas (with V of BTS)," fans around the world can look forward to a magical and heartwarming musical experience this holiday season, as two generations of music legends come together to celebrate the spirit of Christmas.