Kitty Wells, born Ellen Muriel Deason, was a pioneering American country music singer widely hailed as the “Queen of Country Music.” Her breakthrough hit, “It Wasn’t God Who Made Honky Tonk Angels” in 1952, challenged the male-dominated narrative in country music and paved the way for future female artists in the genre. Wells enjoyed a long and successful career, achieving numerous awards, including a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award in 1991, and consistently topping the country music charts throughout the 1950s and 60s. Her impact on country music is undeniable, and she remains an iconic figure to this day.
One of Wells’ enduring classics is “Making Believe,” released in 1955. The song, a poignant ballad of unrequited love, showcases Wells’ signature heartfelt vocals and explores the painful reality of living in a fantasy world. The lyrics depict a woman who’s deeply in love with someone who doesn’t reciprocate her feelings. Instead of facing the truth, she chooses to live in a state of denial, “making believe” that her love is returned. The song captures the universal experience of longing and the difficult choice between facing reality and clinging to a comforting illusion.
“Making Believe” resonated deeply with audiences upon its release and continues to connect with listeners today. Many find solace in Wells’ honest portrayal of heartbreak and the relatable struggle of coping with unrequited love. Some listeners have praised the song’s simplicity and its ability to convey complex emotions with minimal instrumentation. Others admire Wells’ vocal delivery, noting the vulnerability and sincerity that she brings to the song. “Making Believe” solidified Wells’ position as a leading figure in country music and remains a testament to her talent and her ability to connect with audiences on an emotional level.
