Conway Twitty, born Harold Lloyd Jenkins in 1933, was a pioneering American country and rock and roll singer. Though he initially chased rock stardom with hits like “Lonely Blue Boy,” he found lasting success and legendary status transitioning to country music in the late 1960s. Twitty boasts a remarkable career, with over 55 number-one country hits and multiple Country Music Association (CMA) Awards, including Male Vocalist of the Year. His smooth baritone voice and ability to deliver emotionally charged performances made him a beloved figure in both genres.
One of his earliest and most iconic hits, “It’s Only Make Believe,” released in 1958, solidified his position in the rock and roll landscape. The song, co-written by Twitty and Jack Nance, is a dramatic ballad exploring the painful disconnect between outward appearances and inner turmoil. It tells the story of a man who pretends to be indifferent to a woman he deeply loves, masking his true feelings behind a facade of indifference. He convinces himself, and perhaps tries to convince her, that their interaction is merely “make believe,” a game where emotions are feigned. The raw emotion in Twitty’s voice, coupled with the simple yet powerful lyrics, resonated deeply with audiences grappling with similar hidden emotions and unrequited love.
Upon its release, “It’s Only Make Believe” shot to the top of the Billboard charts, reaching number one in the US and the UK, becoming an international sensation. The song’s success launched Twitty into the spotlight and cemented his place in music history. Even decades later, the song continues to be praised for its raw honesty and the relatable portrayal of hidden feelings, remaining a classic on oldies radio stations and inspiring numerous covers by artists across various genres. The enduring appeal of “It’s Only Make Believe” lies in its timeless exploration of love, loss, and the masks we wear to protect ourselves.