Conway Twitty, born Harold Lloyd Jenkins, was a pivotal figure in the evolution of American music, bridging the gap between rock and roll’s early exuberance and the smooth, country-infused sound he later became known for. His career, spanning over four decades, garnered him numerous accolades, including multiple Country Music Association Awards and Academy of Country Music Awards. He charted over 55 number one singles in the country charts, a testament to his enduring appeal and masterful storytelling through song.
One of Twitty’s earliest and arguably most iconic hits, “It’s Only Make Believe,” released in 1958, propelled him to national stardom. This rock and roll ballad, co-written by Twitty and Jack Nance, tells a tale of unrequited love, where the protagonist feigns indifference to the object of his affection, masking his true feelings behind a facade. He pretends the relationship is just “make believe,” a game they play, while secretly yearning for it to be real. The lyrics poignantly capture the pain of hidden emotions and the vulnerability of wanting something you can’t have.
“It’s Only Make Believe” resonated deeply with audiences upon its release. It soared to the top of the Billboard Hot 100 chart, solidifying Twitty’s place in the music landscape. The song’s raw emotion, delivered with Twitty’s signature vocal style, captivated listeners who identified with the heartache and longing embedded within its lyrics. It became a timeless classic, covered by numerous artists over the years, and continues to evoke feelings of nostalgia and the bittersweet pangs of young love. Its enduring popularity speaks to the universal themes of longing, pretense, and the enduring power of a beautifully crafted melody.