Introduction
“It’s Only Make Believe” is one of Conway Twitty’s most iconic songs and a milestone in his career. Released in 1958, the song was co-written by Twitty (whose real name was Harold Jenkins) and Jack Nance, a drummer in his band. At the time, Twitty was trying to establish himself as a rock and roll singer, and “It’s Only Make Believe” became the breakthrough hit that catapulted him to stardom.
The song’s theme revolves around unrequited love, with the narrator longing for a relationship that exists only in his imagination. The lyrics express deep emotion, resonating with listeners who have experienced similar feelings of longing and heartache. The song’s powerful delivery, combined with Twitty’s distinctive voice, made it stand out during an era dominated by the likes of Elvis Presley and Jerry Lee Lewis.
Interestingly, “It’s Only Make Believe” was initially a slow burner. It did not gain immediate attention upon release, but as radio stations began to pick it up, the song’s popularity soared. It eventually reached the No. 1 spot on the Billboard Hot 100 in November 1958 and topped charts in several other countries, including the United Kingdom. This success was a turning point for Twitty, establishing him as a major player in the music industry.
Despite being pigeonholed as a rock and roll artist early in his career, Twitty would later transition to country music, where he became one of the genre’s most beloved stars. However, “It’s Only Make Believe” remains a testament to his versatility and talent, marking the beginning of a legendary career that would span several decades.