About The Song
Conway Twitty’s “It’s Only Make Believe”. Now that’s a song that takes you back. Released in 1958, it stands as a landmark in American music for a couple of reasons. Firstly, it was a genre-bender, blurring the lines between the burgeoning rock and roll scene and the established country music world. Secondly, it launched the career of a true country music legend, Mr. Conway Twitty himself.
---> Scroll down for the VIDEO
Twitty, of course, went on to become synonymous with smooth baritone vocals and heartfelt country ballads. But “It’s Only Make Believe” showcases a different side of the man. Here, his voice is youthful and energetic, perfectly capturing the restless spirit of rock and roll. The music itself thrums with a driving beat and a touch of that signature rebelliousness that defined the era.
But beneath the rockabilly swagger lies a classic country heartbreak story. The lyrics paint a picture of a lovesick fellow yearning for a woman who just doesn’t seem to return his affection. He pleads and cajoles, hoping that someday she’ll see him for who he truly is. Lines like “I pretend you love me, you pretend you care” capture the bittersweet longing of unrequited love, a theme that resonates as strongly today as it did back in the late fifties.
There’s a fascinating duality to “It’s Only Make Believe.” It’s both playful and poignant, a heady mix of youthful exuberance and emotional vulnerability. This unique blend struck a chord with audiences on both sides of the Atlantic, propelling the song to number one on the Billboard chart in the US and achieving success in over 20 other countries.
The song’s legacy extends far beyond its chart success. It became a calling card for Twitty, showcasing his remarkable vocal range and versatility. It also helped pave the way for the future of country music, demonstrating the genre’s ability to embrace new influences and evolve with the times.
So, when you hear the opening strains of “It’s Only Make Believe,” you’re not just listening to a catchy tune. You’re experiencing a piece of musical history, a song that helped define an era and launch the career of a country music giant.