“It’s Only Make Believe,” a timeless classic penned and performed by the legendary Conway Twitty, continues to resonate with audiences decades after its release. Twitty, born Harold Lloyd Jenkins in 1933, initially pursued a career in rock and roll, scoring hits like “Lonely Blue Boy” before transitioning to country music in the mid-1960s. This transition proved incredibly successful, solidifying him as a major force in the genre. Throughout his career, Twitty amassed an impressive collection of awards, including multiple Country Music Association (CMA) and Academy of Country Music (ACM) awards, along with numerous Grammy nominations. He consistently topped the country music charts, earning a dedicated fanbase drawn to his smooth vocals and heartfelt storytelling.
“It’s Only Make Believe,” released in 1958 during his rock and roll phase, represents a particularly intriguing chapter in his musical journey. The song, co-written with Jack Nance, explores the painful facade of a relationship where one partner desperately tries to convince themselves, and perhaps others, that their love is real, even when it’s a fabrication. The lyrics portray a character clinging to the pretense of romance, masking their inner turmoil and heartbreak. The upbeat tempo contrasts sharply with the underlying melancholy of the narrative, creating a compelling and somewhat unsettling listening experience.
The song was a massive success, topping both the Billboard Hot 100 and the UK Singles Chart, launching Twitty into the stratosphere of pop stardom. Audiences were captivated by its raw emotion and catchy melody. Listener feedback often highlights the song’s relatability, with many connecting to the feeling of pretending to be happy in a relationship that’s falling apart. “It’s Only Make Believe” remains a staple on oldies stations and continues to be covered by artists across various genres, testament to its enduring power and the lasting impact of Conway Twitty’s musical legacy.