Orbison was the first to record it and reached #6 in the UK (released in 1964 because “BLUE BAYOU” was still high on the charts in Europe) and #15 on the USA Pop charts in 1963 with this now classic Christmas song.

It was written by Willie Nelson who was happy to get his second big songwriting credit (and paycheck) when Roy recorded “Pretty Paper”. ( Willie still had short hair so that will tell you how far back it was. Way, way back in Willie’s career. He didn’t “smoke” either. He drank at that time. )

This version should sound very “Christmas-y” to you. The background vocals sound like they could fit an old Jimmy Stewart movie soundtrack. We Love It!