Long before Willie Nelson became one of the most recognizable voices in American music, he was carving out a living as a songwriter. One of the songs that helped change the course of his career was “Pretty Paper,” now cherished as a classic country Christmas tune.
Nelson found inspiration in an unlikely but unforgettable place. While living in Fort Worth, Texas, he often passed a street vendor stationed outside a department store. The man, who had lost both legs, sold pencils and stationery and called out to passersby with a simple phrase: “Pretty paper.” The image and the words stayed with Nelson, eventually becoming the heart of the song.
After signing with Monument Records, Nelson shared “Pretty Paper” with label founder and producer Fred Foster. Recognizing its potential, Foster passed the song along to Roy Orbison, who recorded it in 1963. Orbison’s version became a hit, reaching No. 10 on the Adult Contemporary chart and No. 15 on the Billboard Hot 100.
Nelson released his own recording the following year, and over time the song was covered by numerous artists, including Glen Campbell and Kenny Chesney, cementing its place as a holiday staple.
Marty Robbins also left his mark on “Pretty Paper.” Although Robbins released only one Christmas album during his lifetime, his version of the song appeared later on the posthumous release A Christmas Remembered. The album paired “Pretty Paper” with beloved holiday standards like “Jingle Bell Rock” and “I’ll Be Home for Christmas.”
With his smooth, gentle delivery, Robbins brought a warm intimacy to the song that suited its reflective tone. His rendition remains a favorite for fans and a reminder of why “Pretty Paper” continues to resonate decades after it was written.