“It’s Only Make Believe,” a heart-wrenching ballad released in 1958, remains Conway Twitty’s signature song and a timeless classic of rock and roll. Twitty, born Harold Lloyd Jenkins, was a dynamic performer who transitioned from rockabilly beginnings to become one of country music’s biggest stars. While he would later dominate the country charts with a string of number-one hits and earn numerous CMA and ACM awards, “It’s Only Make Believe” marked his breakthrough moment and solidified his place in music history.
The song, co-written by Twitty himself and Jack Nance, explores the painful chasm between outward appearance and inner turmoil. It depicts a man desperately in love, forced to feign indifference and act as though his feelings are mere pretense. He sings of “make believe” smiles and kisses, masking the burning desire he feels for a woman he believes he cannot have. This theme of unrequited love and the struggle to reconcile genuine emotion with societal expectations resonated deeply with audiences.
Upon its release, “It’s Only Make Believe” skyrocketed to the top of the Billboard Hot 100, selling over eight million copies. Its simple, yet powerful melody, coupled with Twitty’s emotionally charged vocals, captivated listeners. The song’s raw honesty and relatable subject matter struck a chord with teenagers navigating the complexities of love and heartbreak. Even today, the song continues to evoke feelings of nostalgia and remains a staple on oldies radio stations and in jukeboxes worldwide. Critics lauded its innovative blend of rock and roll energy with heartfelt emotion, recognizing its lasting impact on popular music. Audience feedback has consistently praised the song’s sincerity and enduring appeal, cementing “It’s Only Make Believe” as a cornerstone of Conway Twitty’s legacy and a testament to the power of raw emotion in music.