Freddie Mercury performs heartfelt live cover of 'White Christmas' in rare recording from 1977

While it has been over three decades since the legendary Queen frontman Freddie Mercury left this earth, a rare recording from 1977 is getting fans in the Christmas spirit.

Captured in California, just three days before Christmas, Freddie gave an impromptu performance of the holiday classic 'White Christmas' for his Inglewood audience.

Taking to the stage the 'Bohemian Rhapsody' hitmaker admitted to the crowd that the band hadn't rehearsed their next song.

"We've come up with something in the dressing room, we've never ever done it before," Freddie can be heard saying to the excited crowd on the audio.

"As it's Christmas we're going to try something new tonight ... and we really need your help. Please sing along, don't be shy!"

Accompanied by Brian May on acoustic guitar, Freddie then starts to sing a beautiful stripped-back version of the much-loved Christmas song as the crowd cheers and sings along.