Introduction:
“Pretty Paper” is a poignant Christmas song written by Willie Nelson in 1963. Inspired by a disabled man he saw selling Christmas wrapping paper on the streets of Fort Worth, Texas, the song tells the story of a struggling individual trying to make a living during the holiday season.
The song has a melancholic undertone, highlighting the contrast between the joyous spirit of Christmas and the hardships faced by those less fortunate. Nelson’s own demo of the song caught the attention of producer Fred Foster, who passed it on to Roy Orbison. Orbison’s rendition, released in 1964, became a huge hit, reaching #6 on the UK Singles Chart and #15 on the US Billboard Hot 100.
Orbison’s distinctive vocals, with their powerful range and emotional depth, perfectly captured the bittersweet nature of the song. “Pretty Paper” has since become a Christmas classic, beloved by audiences for its heartfelt message and enduring emotional impact.