Conway Twitty, born Harold Lloyd Jenkins in 1933, was an American rock and roll and country music singer. While he initially found fame as a rockabilly heartthrob with hits like “Lonely Blue Boy,” he achieved even greater success after transitioning to country music in the late 1960s. He became a defining voice in country for decades, known for his smooth baritone, often singing about romance and heartache. He amassed an impressive collection of awards throughout his career, including multiple Country Music Association (CMA) and Academy of Country Music (ACM) awards. He held the record for most number-one singles on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart for a period of time.
One of Conway Twitty’s earliest and most enduring hits is “It’s Only Make Believe,” released in 1958. This song, co-written by Twitty and Jack Nance, propelled him to international stardom. The song’s theme centers on the pain of unrequited love, portraying a man who pretends that his affection is reciprocated, even though he knows it’s just an illusion. He yearns for a love that remains just “make believe,” highlighting the emotional turmoil and vulnerability that many listeners found relatable.
Upon its release, “It’s Only Make Believe” resonated deeply with audiences. It topped both the Billboard Hot 100 and the Cashbox charts, becoming a massive crossover hit that appealed to both rock and pop fans. Its raw emotion, combined with Twitty’s distinctive vocal delivery, struck a chord with listeners experiencing similar feelings of longing and unfulfilled love. The song’s success cemented Twitty’s position as a significant musical force and launched him on a trajectory that would eventually lead to his dominance in the country music scene. To this day, “It’s Only Make Believe” remains a classic, capturing the enduring power of a well-crafted song about the complexities of the human heart.