Category Archives: Music History

“Pretty Paper” is a song written by country music singer-songwriter Willie Nelson in 1963. After being signed to Monument Records, Nelson played the song for producer Fred Foster. Subsequently, Foster pitched the song to Roy Orbison, who turned it into … Continue reading →

Sinter Klaas Comes To New York St. Nicholas made his first inroads into American popular culture towards the end of the 18th century. In December 1773, a New York newspaper reported that groups of families had gathered to honor the … Continue reading →

St. Nicholas was a Christian bishop who provided for the poor and sick and is the basis for the popular character of Santa Claus. Born in Patara, a land that is part of present-day Turkey, circa 280, St. Nicholas was … Continue reading →