Willie Nelson is bringing a fresh perspective to one of his most beloved holiday songs. Legacy Recordings, the catalog division of Sony Music Entertainment, has released a new version of Nelson’s classic “Pretty Paper,” featuring Brandon Coleman of The Red Clay Strays. The reimagined track arrived November 6 and is now available across streaming platforms. The collaboration adds another chapter to the growing connection between Nelson and The Red Clay Strays. The band previously performed at the 2024 Luck Reunion on Nelson’s ranch before joining him on the Outlaw Music Festival tour in summer 2025. Now, Coleman brings his own musical identity to a song that has remained a holiday favorite for generations. Originally released as part of Nelson’s 1979 Pretty Paper album, the song receives a new interpretation while keeping its connection to the timeless original alive.
Listen to “Pretty Paper” featuring Brandon Coleman: LISTEN HERE
The new release also arrives just days ahead of another major milestone for Nelson. On November 10, the legendary songwriter will publish his newest book, The Last Leaf: Reflections on Late-Life Creativity–and My Longest Love Affair. At 93, Nelson continues to demonstrate that creativity has no expiration date. Over the last twelve years alone, he has recorded 21 studio albums, written more than 50 songs, published seven books, and performed more than 800 live shows. Rather than looking back on his career as something finished, Nelson uses his latest book to explore what continues to inspire him and keep him moving forward.
In The Last Leaf, Nelson reflects on the experiences that have shaped his life, including confronting the possibility of death during the COVID pandemic and discovering a renewed appreciation for the present. He also shares a deeply personal look at his decades-long relationship with his wife, Annie, exploring the humor, companionship, and enduring connection that have strengthened their partnership over the years.
Blending stories of creativity, love, resilience, and the experiences that come with growing older, the book offers readers a more intimate perspective on the man behind some of country music’s most recognizable songs. With a new interpretation of a holiday classic and another book on the way, Willie Nelson continues to find new ways to share his music, experiences, and perspective with the world. Listen to “Pretty Paper” and look for The Last Leaf: Reflections on Late-Life Creativity and My Longest Love Affair, arriving November 10, 2026.
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