Although David Bowie had done little to promote his 11th studio album "Low", released in January 1977, he decided to promote his 12th studio album ""Heroes"", released in October 1977, extensively. In September 1977, Bowie appeared on Marc Bolan's television series "Marc" and performed "Heroes". Two days later on 11 September, Bowie traveled to ATV's Elstree Studios in London to record an appearance on Bing Crosby's television special "Merrie Old Christmas". Bowie's agreement to perform "Heroes" on the special was to record a duet with Crosby. Crosby's daughter Mary recalled that Bowie and his then-wife Angie both arrived to the studio wearing full matching makeup and bright red hair. Crosby's son Nathaniel further stated: "It almost didn't happen. I think the producers told him to take the lipstick off and take the earring out. It was just incredible to see the contrast."