Conway Twitty, born Harold Lloyd Jenkins in 1933, was a pivotal figure in American music, transitioning from rock and roll heartthrob to a country music icon. While initially chasing Elvis Presley’s shadow with energetic rockabilly numbers, Twitty found lasting success in the country genre, boasting a staggering 55 number-one hits on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart, a record only surpassed by George Strait. He earned numerous accolades throughout his career, including multiple Country Music Association Awards and Grammy Awards, solidifying his place as a legend.
Before his country dominance, however, Twitty delivered his breakout hit, “It’s Only Make Believe,” in 1958. This iconic rock and roll ballad, co-written with Jack Nance, catapulted him to international fame, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. The song’s enduring appeal lies in its relatable exploration of unrequited love and the agonizing pretense of indifference. The lyrics depict a narrator deeply in love, forced to play a role, pretending his affection is merely “make believe” to mask his vulnerability and avoid potential rejection. This theme of hidden feelings resonated deeply with a young audience grappling with the complexities of romance.
“It’s Only Make Believe” quickly became a teen anthem, with its catchy melody and relatable lyrics striking a chord with listeners across the globe. The song’s raw emotion, delivered with Twitty’s distinctive vocals, resonated particularly well with young people experiencing the pangs of first love and the fear of vulnerability. The immediate success and lasting impact of “It’s Only Make Believe” established Conway Twitty as a major musical force and remains a defining moment in his long and varied career, demonstrating his versatility and the timeless power of heartfelt storytelling in music.
