Conway Twitty, born Harold Lloyd Jenkins, was a pivotal figure in both rock and roll and country music, achieving legendary status for his distinctive vocal style and emotionally charged performances. While he initially found success in rockabilly with hits like “Lonely Blue Boy,” he seamlessly transitioned to country in the late 1960s, dominating the charts for decades and solidifying his place as a country music icon. Throughout his career, Twitty amassed an impressive collection of awards, including multiple Country Music Association Awards and Academy of Country Music Awards. He scored an incredible 55 number one hits on the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart, a testament to his enduring popularity and connection with his audience.
Among his vast repertoire, “It’s Only Make Believe,” originally released in 1958, stands as a signature song, encapsulating the yearning and desperation of unrequited love. The song’s lyrics tell the story of someone pretending to be indifferent while secretly harboring deep feelings for another. The protagonist puts on a facade of happiness, knowing the relationship is merely a fabrication, masking the inner turmoil and longing for the love to be real. This theme of hidden emotions and the performance of love resonated deeply with audiences.
Upon its release, “It’s Only Make Believe” catapulted Twitty to international fame, topping the Billboard Hot 100 chart. The song’s raw emotion and catchy melody struck a chord with listeners, who identified with the universal experience of unrequited love and the pain of pretense. Even decades later, the song continues to be praised for its honest portrayal of heartbreak and its enduring appeal, cementing its place as a classic in the history of popular music. Its impact is evident in the numerous covers and its continued presence on oldies radio stations, proving its timeless quality and enduring connection with audiences across generations.