About The Song
Willie Nelson’s “Pretty Paper,” isn’t your typical Christmas carol. This 1979 ballad, composed by Roy Orbison, offers a tender and contemplative take on the holiday season, capturing the bittersweet mix of joy and nostalgia that often accompanies this time of year.
“Pretty Paper” was originally written and recorded by Roy Orbison in 1963. However, it found its true magic when Willie Nelson covered it in 1979 for his Christmas album, “Pretty Paper.” Nelson’s weathered voice, with its signature rasp and warmth, infused the song with a depth and poignancy that resonated deeply with listeners.
The lyrics of “Pretty Paper” steer clear of saccharine sentimentality. They focus on the simpler aspects of Christmas – the sparkle of wrapping paper, the scent of pine needles, the quiet moments spent with loved ones. In doing so, the song captures the essence of the holiday season not as a grand spectacle, but as a time for reflection and connection.
The song acknowledges the bittersweet nature of life. We hear a hint of loss and longing in the lines, “Some folks are lonely at Christmas/They haven’t got any place to go,” reminding us that not everyone experiences the holidays with unbridled joy. However, the song ultimately ends on a hopeful note, with Nelson crooning, “Pretty paper, pretty ribbons of blue/Wrap your presents to your darling from you/And I hope that your Christmas will be merry and bright.”
“Pretty Paper” has become a beloved Christmas classic, covered by numerous artists and featured in countless holiday movies and specials. Its simple yet evocative lyrics and Nelson’s heartfelt delivery continue to resonate with listeners year after year, reminding us that the true meaning of Christmas lies not in material possessions, but in the warmth of human connection and the hope for a brighter future.
So, this holiday season, let Willie Nelson’s “Pretty Paper” transport you to a world of gentle reflection and quiet joy. Put away the hustle and bustle, savor the simple pleasures, and remember the reason for the season – to cherish the moments we share with loved ones and hold onto the hope that shines brighter than any twinkling decoration.