Conway Twitty, born Harold Lloyd Jenkins, was a legendary American country music artist, known for his distinctive baritone voice and emotionally charged performances. Spanning several decades, his career saw him dominate both the rock and roll and country charts. Before embracing country, Twitty scored a rock and roll hit with “It’s Only Make Believe” in 1958, a song that cemented his place in music history. He would later successfully transition to country music, achieving an astounding 55 number-one hits on the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart, surpassing any other artist. He earned numerous accolades, including multiple Country Music Association (CMA) awards and Grammy nominations.
“It’s Only Make Believe,” released early in Twitty’s career, tells a poignant story of unrequited love. The narrator is deeply in love with someone who only pretends to reciprocate his feelings. He understands the relationship is a charade, a game of make-believe where both parties play along. The song explores the pain of living in a fabricated reality, highlighting the longing for genuine connection and the heartbreak of knowing the love is not real. The raw emotion conveyed in Twitty’s vocal performance perfectly captures the internal struggle and vulnerability of the narrator.
Upon its release, “It’s Only Make Believe” resonated deeply with audiences, propelling it to the top of the charts. Its relatable themes of love, deception, and heartbreak struck a chord, making it a timeless classic. Fans praised the song for its simple yet powerful lyrics, the catchy melody, and Twitty’s sincere delivery. Decades later, the song continues to be cherished for its nostalgic appeal and its ability to evoke feelings of longing and yearning. It remains a staple on oldies radio and a testament to Conway Twitty’s enduring talent and the universal power of love songs.