Conway Twitty, born Harold Lloyd Jenkins in 1933, was a pivotal figure in American music, bridging the gap between rock and roll’s early exuberance and the emotional depth of country music. While he initially found success as a rockabilly singer, it was his later transition to country that cemented his legendary status. Twitty accumulated a staggering 55 number-one country hits throughout his career, earning him numerous awards, including multiple Country Music Association (CMA) awards and Grammy nominations. He remains one of the best-selling country artists of all time.
Before his country reign, however, Twitty captured hearts with the 1958 rock and roll ballad, “It’s Only Make Believe.” This iconic song marked his first significant breakthrough, reaching the coveted number one spot on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. The song, co-written by Twitty and Jack Nance, explores the heartbreaking facade of a relationship where true feelings are hidden behind a carefully constructed performance. The lyrics portray a love where both partners pretend to be happy and in love, masking the underlying pain and unrequited desires. “It’s only make believe, loved only in my dreams,” the chorus laments, highlighting the stark contrast between the manufactured reality and the singer’s true longing.
Upon release, “It’s Only Make Believe” resonated deeply with audiences, particularly teenagers experiencing the complexities of young love. Its raw emotion, catchy melody, and Twitty’s passionate vocals made it an instant classic. The song’s success solidified Twitty’s initial fame and paved the way for his later transformation into a country music icon. Even decades later, the song continues to be appreciated for its poignant portrayal of unrequited love and the universal struggle to conceal vulnerability. Its enduring popularity is a testament to its timeless appeal and Twitty’s ability to connect with listeners on a deeply emotional level.