Introduction:
This is the era of poodle skirts, bobby socks, and the rise of rock and roll. But nestled amongst the burgeoning Elvis craze and the doo-wop crooners, a new voice emerged – a young Conway Twitty. Now, Twitty’s story is a fascinating one. Originally known as Harold Jenkins, this Mississippian started his career with a bang in the rockabilly scene. But it’s with the song we’re focusing on today, It’s Only Make Believe, that Twitty truly made his mark.
Released in 1958, It’s Only Make Believe wasn’t initially intended to be a single. In fact, it was the B-side to another song, “I’ll Try.” However, something about the tune struck a chord with audiences. The song itself is a perfect encapsulation of the early rock and roll sound. It’s got a driving beat, a catchy melody courtesy of Twitty himself and drummer Jack Nance, and of course, Twitty’s unmistakable vocals. His signature growl, a sound he honed while performing with Elvis Presley’s early backup band, perfectly complements the yearning lyrics.
Speaking of lyrics, It’s Only Make Believe tells a tale of unrequited love, a theme timeless in any genre. The narrator, clearly smitten, describes a love that feels one-sided. He paints a picture of stolen glances, whispered promises, and a burning desire. But a nagging doubt creeps in – is it real, or “It’s Only Make Believe“? This uncertainty adds a layer of depth to the song, making it relatable to anyone who’s ever loved and questioned the reciprocation of those feelings.
The song’s success was a surprise to many. Here was a rockabilly tune topping the charts, not just in the US, but even across the pond in the UK. It’s Only Make Believe became Twitty’s first and only number-one hit on the Billboard pop charts, a remarkable feat for a newcomer on the scene. It’s worth noting that the song was produced by Jim Vienneau, a key figure in rock and roll history who also worked with artists like Buddy Holly and The Everly Brothers. Vienneau’s expertise undoubtedly played a role in crafting a song that resonated with a generation hungry for new sounds.
It’s Only Make Believe isn’t just a chart-topping hit; it’s a significant marker in Conway Twitty’s career. It showcased his versatility as a singer, his ability to straddle the line between rock and roll and the burgeoning country sound that would define his later years. The song’s enduring popularity is a testament to its catchy melody, relatable lyrics, and of course, Twitty’s powerful vocals. So, the next time you hear that iconic growl, take it back to 1958, to a time of bobby socks and teenage dreams, and remember the song that launched a legend: It’s Only Make Believe.