“It’s Only Make Believe,” released in 1958, remains Conway Twitty’s signature song and a landmark achievement in the evolution of rock and roll. Twitty, born Harold Jenkins, initially pursued a career in baseball before being drawn to the burgeoning rockabilly scene. He adopted the stage name Conway Twitty, a combination of Conway, Arkansas and Twitty, Texas, towns close to his heart. While he later transitioned to country music, becoming one of the genre’s biggest stars, “It’s Only Make Believe” secured his place in rock and roll history.
The song catapulted Twitty to international fame, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the United States. Its infectious melody and raw emotion resonated deeply with teenagers. The song’s success wasn’t limited to the US; it topped charts in several other countries, solidifying Twitty’s global appeal. While Twitty received numerous awards throughout his career, primarily in country music, the impact of “It’s Only Make Believe” is undeniable in shaping his initial success and establishing him as a force to be reckoned with.
“It’s Only Make Believe” explores the bittersweet reality of unrequited love. The lyrics depict a persona yearning for a love that seems unattainable, masking their true feelings behind a facade of indifference. The song captures the pain and frustration of pretending not to care, highlighting the vulnerability hidden beneath a carefully constructed image. The emotional rawness, amplified by Twitty’s powerful vocals, struck a chord with audiences.
The song received mixed reactions, with some praising its relatable themes and catchy melody, while others criticized its simplistic lyrics and perceived emotional manipulation. Nevertheless, its enduring popularity speaks volumes about its resonance with listeners who have experienced the pangs of unrequited love and the challenges of hiding their true feelings. Even today, “It’s Only Make Believe” remains a popular choice on oldies radio and continues to evoke nostalgia for a bygone era of rock and roll.