Conway Twitty, born Harold Lloyd Jenkins, was a prominent figure in both rock and roll and country music, achieving legendary status for his distinctive voice and emotionally charged performances. Spanning decades, his career saw him navigate the evolving landscape of American music, racking up numerous awards including multiple CMA Male Vocalist of the Year awards and Grammy nominations. He topped the country charts an impressive 55 times, cementing his place as one of the genre’s most successful artists. While primarily known for his country hits, Twitty initially found fame with his rock and roll sound.
“It’s Only Make Believe,” released in 1958, stands as a quintessential example of his early rockabilly style and arguably remains one of his most recognizable and enduring tracks. The song, co-written with Jack Nance, tells the poignant story of unrequited love. The singer puts on a brave face, pretending to be indifferent to the object of his affection while secretly harboring deep feelings. This facade of “make believe” is a defense mechanism against the pain of rejection, highlighting the vulnerability and emotional turmoil often hidden beneath a seemingly confident exterior.
Upon its release, “It’s Only Make Believe” soared to the top of the Billboard Hot 100 chart, launching Twitty into international stardom. The song resonated with a wide audience, particularly teenagers, due to its relatable themes of heartbreak and the struggles of young love. Listeners praised Twitty’s passionate vocals and the song’s catchy melody, which made it an instant classic. Even decades later, the song continues to evoke feelings of nostalgia and heartache, proving its enduring power and solidifying its place in music history. Many continue to praise its raw emotion and the powerful way Twitty captured the universal experience of pining for someone who doesn’t reciprocate those feelings.
