“It’s Only Make Believe,” released in 1958, is a defining track from American rock and roll and country music artist Conway Twitty. Born Harold Lloyd Jenkins, Twitty was a dynamic performer known for his smooth vocals and charismatic stage presence. Before achieving mainstream success in country music, he initially made waves in rock and roll. “It’s Only Make Believe” marked his breakthrough, rocketing to the top of the Billboard Hot 100 chart, reaching number one and becoming a defining hit of the late 1950s.
The song, co-written by Twitty and Jack Nance, explores the complexities of hidden feelings and unrequited love. The lyrics depict a persona deeply in love but forced to hide his true emotions, pretending it’s all “make believe.” This act of pretending is both a defense mechanism and a source of pain, capturing the universal struggle of suppressing one’s feelings for fear of rejection or social disapproval. The yearning in Twitty’s voice perfectly conveys the emotional turmoil of the narrator, making the song resonate with listeners who have experienced similar situations.
“It’s Only Make Believe” quickly became a fan favorite, with audiences connecting to the song’s relatable theme of unspoken love. Its success solidified Twitty’s place in music history and demonstrated his ability to cross genres and connect with a wide range of listeners. The song’s enduring appeal is evidenced by its numerous covers over the years and its continued presence on oldies radio stations, proving that the pain of hidden love remains timeless. Beyond its chart success, “It’s Only Make Believe” remains a testament to Twitty’s talent and his ability to capture the human condition in song.