Paper Doll
Hank Thompson · Hank Thompson & His Brazos Val [2003]
Writer Johnny Black
I'm gonna buy a Paper Doll that I can call my own A
doll that other fellows cannot steal And then the flirty,
flirty guys with their flirty,
flirty eyes Will have to flirt with dollies that are
real When I come home at night she will be waiting
She'll be the truest doll in all this world I'd rather
have a Paper Doll to call my own Than have a fickle-minded
real live girl I guess I had a million dolls or more
I guess I've played the doll game o'er and o'er I just
quarreled with Sue, that's why I'm blue She's gone
away and left me just like all dolls do I'll tell you
boys, it's tough to be alone And it's tough to love
a doll that's not your own I'm through with all of
them I'll never ball again Say boy,
whatcha gonna do? I'm gonna buy a Paper Doll that I
can call my own A doll that other fellows cannot steal
And then the flirty, flirty guys with their flirty,
flirty eyes Will have to flirt with dollies that are
real When I come home at night she will be waiting
She'll be the truest doll in all this world I'd rather
have a Paper Doll to call my own Than have a fickle-minded real live girl
Paper Doll
Hank Thompson's recording of "Paper Doll" stands as a testament to his mastery of the Western swing genre. As the leader of the Brazos Valley Boys, Thompson blended country, jazz, and swing influences to create a sound that dominated the Texas music scene for decades. This particular track showcases his signature vocal style and the tight, danceable instrumentation that defined his extensive discography. While the song is a well-known standard, Thompson's arrangement brings his unique regional flair to the composition, highlighting the ensemble's ability to navigate both upbeat numbers and sentimental ballads. The recording remains a key song in his body of work, reflecting the enduring appeal of his contributions to American roots music and his lasting influence on the genre's evolution.