Roy Orbison – Pretty Paper

About the song

Roy Orbison’s “Pretty Paper” is a poignant holiday song that touches on themes of loneliness and compassion, wrapped in the lush, emotive vocal style that Orbison is celebrated for. Released in November 1963, “Pretty Paper” was a significant addition to the array of holiday music, standing out for its melancholic yet hopeful tone.

“Pretty Paper” was initially released as a single before becoming part of various compilation albums, including Orbison’s “The All-Time Greatest Hits of Roy Orbison” and numerous Christmas collections. The song’s origin is particularly notable: it was written by the legendary Willie Nelson, who penned the lyrics inspired by a true-life experience. Nelson observed a disabled street vendor in Fort Worth, Texas, who sold pencils and paper while crawling along the sidewalk, unable to afford a wheelchair. This heart-wrenching scene moved Nelson to write “Pretty Paper,” capturing the essence of unnoticed struggles during the festive season.

In “Pretty Paper”, Orbison’s haunting voice brings an emotional depth that is both stirring and reflective. The song opens with the line “Pretty paper, pretty ribbons of blue,” drawing listeners into a world where the festive trappings of Christmas contrast sharply with the stark reality of those less fortunate. The lyrics tell the story of a man lying on the sidewalk, overlooked by busy shoppers caught up in the holiday rush. The chorus, repeating “pretty paper, pretty ribbons,” serves as a bittersweet reminder of the decorations that mask deeper societal issues.

Orbison’s rendition of “Pretty Paper” was well-received, charting in the United States and becoming a seasonal favorite. His ability to convey the song’s underlying sadness while maintaining a sense of warmth and empathy is what makes his performance timeless. The orchestration, featuring gentle strings and a subdued rhythm, complements Orbison’s vocal delivery, enhancing the song’s melancholic beauty.

The societal impact of “Pretty Paper” is significant. It stands out among holiday songs for its willingness to address themes of poverty and loneliness, encouraging listeners to look beyond the surface of holiday cheer and recognize the struggles of those around them. This empathetic approach is a testament to both Orbison’s and Nelson’s artistic sensibilities, using their music to highlight social issues in a subtle yet powerful way.

Roy Orbison was known for his operatic voice and his ability to convey deep emotion, and “Pretty Paper” is a prime example of these talents. His rendition of the song has endured for decades, often covered by other artists but never quite capturing the same level of poignant sincerity that Orbison delivered. The song’s legacy continues to remind us of the importance of compassion and awareness, especially during times of celebration.

In conclusion, “Pretty Paper” by Roy Orbison is more than just a holiday song; it’s a heartfelt narrative that urges us to see beyond the festive glitter and extend kindness to those who need it most. Its release in 1963 brought a new dimension to Christmas music, one that resonates with listeners to this day. Orbison’s powerful performance ensures that “Pretty Paper” remains a beloved classic, cherished for its emotional depth and its message of empathy and humanity.

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