Introduction
Before his reign as a country music legend, Conway Twitty cut his teeth in the energetic world of rock and roll. “It’s Only Make Believe,” released in 1958, wasn’t just his first hit, it became a surprising crossover sensation, topping both the US and UK pop charts.
The song’s origins are as interesting as its success. Co-written with Twitty’s drummer, Jack Nance (not to be confused with the actor of the same name), “It’s Only Make Believe” was born on the road during a tour through Ontario, Canada. The raw emotions in the lyrics reflect the fleeting connections often formed while traveling.
The song itself is a lament for a love that can’t quite take hold. The narrator pours his heart out to a woman, confessing his feelings and hoping that someday she’ll feel the same. The constant refrain, “It’s only make believe,” underscores the uncertainty and yearning for a deeper connection.
“It’s Only Make Believe” wasn’t just a hit for Twitty, it helped define his unique sound. His powerful vocals, originally honed for rock and roll, lent a soulful edge to the country ballad. The song’s success also foreshadowed Twitty’s later career, where he would seamlessly blend rockabilly influences with classic country themes.
So, put on your blue suede shoes and prepare for a heartbreak anthem with a surprising twist. “It’s Only Make Believe” may be a song about lost love, but its journey from a drummer’s idea to a chart-topping sensation is a testament to the enduring power of music on the road.