“It’s Only Make Believe,” released in 1958, stands as a defining moment in the career of Conway Twitty, and a cornerstone of early rock and roll balladry. Before transitioning to his legendary status in country music, Twitty, born Harold Lloyd Jenkins, delivered this heart-wrenching performance that resonated deeply with audiences worldwide.
The song, co-written by Twitty and Jack Nance, is a poignant exploration of unrequited love and the painful facade one might maintain to hide their true feelings. The narrator is deeply in love with someone who views him only as a friend. He masks his heartache behind a pretense of casual affection, living in a world of “make believe” where his love is reciprocated. Twitty’s powerful vocals, marked by a signature vibrato and a palpable sense of longing, perfectly capture the song’s emotional core.
“It’s Only Make Believe” achieved massive commercial success, reaching the coveted #1 spot on the Billboard Hot 100, staying at the top of the Pop and R&B charts for 2 weeks, and even topping the UK Singles Chart, showcasing its broad appeal across diverse audiences. Although, the song was not nominated for any Grammy award. The song was certified Gold by the RIAA. This international hit solidified Twitty’s presence in the music industry and demonstrated his ability to connect with listeners on a profoundly emotional level.
The public response was overwhelmingly positive, with many praising Twitty’s emotive delivery and the song’s relatable theme of hidden heartbreak. The song found a place between teenagers that were in the same situation. The song continues receiving feedback on music platforms, where is desbribed as a beautiful and relatable, but sad song. “It’s Only Make Believe” became a staple on radio playlists and remains a classic example of the era’s powerful ballads, frequently covered and sampled by other artists, a testament to its enduring legacy.
