Pretty Paper

by Willie Nelson

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Lyrics

Crowd ed streets, bus y (D7)feet hus tle (G)by him.

Down town shop pers, (D7)Christ mas is (G)nigh.

There he sits all a (G7)lone on the (C)side walk

(A7)Hop ing that you won’t pass him (A7)by.

Should you (G)stop?

Bet ter (D7)not.

Much too (G)bus y.

You’re in a hur ry, my (D7)how time does (G)fly.

In the dis tance the (G7)ring ing of (C)laugh ter

And in the (G)midst of the (D7)laugh ter he (Cm)cries.

Pret ty pa per, pret ty rib bons of (D7)blue,

Wrap your pres ents to your dar ling from (G)you.

Pret ty pen cils to (G7)write, “I love (C)you.”

Pret ty (G)pa per, pret ty (D7)rib bons of (Am7)blue.

Pretty Paper by Willie Nelson — Easy Piano for Kids

This page shows “Pretty Paper by Willie Nelson in our color-coded kid songbook view — every note is colored by pitch (red C, orange D, yellow E, green F, blue G, purple A, pink B) and the lyrics sit directly under each note, so children can sing along while they play. The song is in the key of G at 105 BPM, a comfortable easy-level arrangement perfect for first-time learners.

Tips for parents & teachers

  • Start at 50% tempo using the BPM control. Speed up only when your child can play through without stopping.
  • Turn on the metronome from the top bar to build steady rhythm.
  • Use the segmented OFF / C / 1 button to toggle note labels on the staff and keys — kids learn note names faster with letters showing.
  • Tap a measure number on the timeline to jump to a specific section for repeat practice.

Frequently asked questions

Is "Pretty Paper" good for a child learning piano?
Yes — this color-coded arrangement is designed for ages 4-12. Each note is colored by pitch so kids match colors to keys, no music reading required. Lyrics sit under every note for sing-along play.
What age can start with "Pretty Paper"?
Children as young as 4 can follow the color-coded notes. By age 6-7 most kids can play through the song themselves with light guidance. Parent help is recommended for the first few sessions.
Do we need a piano teacher to use this?
No — the color-coded format is designed to be self-explanatory. Parents with no music background can supervise. Teachers can also use it as an introductory lesson tool.
Can we print the sheet music?
Yes — tap "Download Sheet Music" above for a free printable PDF with the same color-coded notes that appear on screen.
What other Willie Nelson songs work for kids?
Try "ON THE ROAD AGAIN", "HARBOR LIGHTS", "HE WAS A FRIEND OF MINE". All play with color-coded notes; pick a familiar tune to keep kids engaged.