Conway Twitty – It’s Only Make Believe
“It’s Only Make Believe” is a classic song by Conway Twitty, recorded in the late 1950s. Released in 1958, the song was a significant milestone in Twitty’s career, marking his first major hit. Before the success of this song, Twitty, born Harold Lloyd Jenkins, mostly dabbled in rockabilly and rock and roll genres. With “It’s Only Make Believe,” he not only captured a wide audience but also cemented his place in the evolving music industry of the time. The song’s quick rise to popularity showed how a well-crafted melody combined with heartfelt lyrics could propel an artist to stardom.
The composition of “It’s Only Make Believe” is a blend of rock and roll with an emotional ballad style that made it stand out. Co-written by Twitty and Jack Nance, who was his drummer at the time, the song was created during a car ride between gigs. The urgency and sincerity in its melody and lyrics resonate with listeners, echoing the feelings of longing and unrequited love. The use of simple chord progressions and Twitty’s unique vocal delivery created a powerful and emotive soundscape that captured the essence of yearning, which would come to define much of his subsequent work in country music.
The lyrics of “It’s Only Make Believe” tell the poignant story of a man’s unrequited love, yearning for a romantic relationship that exists only in his fantasies. The words convey a deep sense of longing and heartache, with the singer expressing hopes for a love that, in reality, doesn’t exist. This thematic exploration of unfulfilled love struck a chord with many listeners, establishing a strong emotional connection that helped the song gain significant popularity across a diverse audience. Twitty’s delivery of the lyrics, with his rich and emotional voice, further amplifies the song’s appeal, turning it into a timeless ballad that continues to resonate with audiences today.
When Twitty performed “It’s Only Make Believe” live, his stage presence and the raw emotion in his voice captivated audiences. The song became a staple in his live performances, often drawing a strong crowd response. Twitty’s ability to convey emotion through his performances was central to his appeal as a live performer. Throughout the years, even as his career expanded more into the country genre, the song remained a touchstone in his performances, showcasing his versatility as an artist. The live performances of this song helped cement his reputation as a talented and passionate performer.
The impact of “It’s Only Make Believe” on music and culture is significant. The song not only launched Twitty into fame but also showcased the cross-genre potential of artists at the time, being a blend of rock and ballad styles. It reached number one on the Billboard Hot 100 and saw success internationally, which was a notable achievement for any artist in the 1950s. Its success opened the doors for Twitty to explore other genres, eventually leading him to become one of the most successful country music artists of his time. The song’s universal themes of love and longing allowed it to transcend cultural and temporal barriers, influencing later artists across various music genres.
Conway Twitty’s career trajectory after “It’s Only Make Believe” is a testament to the song’s foundational role in his life. Following its success, Twitty gained further recognition in both pop and country music circles. Even after he transitioned predominantly to country music, “It’s Only Make Believe” was frequently part of his concerts, bridging his work between pop and country audiences. As Twitty solidified his place in country music, the song served as a reminder of his broader musical roots, linking the rock and country music fields in his career.
Musicians and audiences alike have acknowledged the influence of “It’s Only Make Believe” over the decades. Cover versions by artists in various genres have emerged, highlighting the song’s universal appeal and adaptability. It has been covered by artists like Elvis Presley and Ronnie McDowell, each bringing their own interpretation while preserving the song’s poignant essence. The song’s ability to be successfully reinterpreted by various artists speaks to its strong composition and enduring emotional relevance.
The cultural impact of “It’s Only Make Believe” extends beyond its initial success in the 1950s. It remains a classic example of American popular music from that era and continues to be celebrated for its lyrical depth and emotional delivery. The song’s legacy endures in music history, influencing not just rock and roll and country musicians, but music listeners around the world. Twitty’s ability to convey such sincere emotion helped carve a niche in popular music where storytelling and vocal delivery were deeply intertwined, influencing how songs are crafted and appreciated in the music industry today.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7e0Fq0BqF24
