Introduction:
A Love Song Born on the Road: The Story of “It’s Only Make Believe”
In the late 1950s, a young, aspiring rock and roll singer named Harold Lloyd Jenkins, who would later become known as Conway Twitty, was touring Canada with his band. During a break at the Flamingo Lounge in Hamilton, Ontario, Jenkins and his drummer, Jack Nance, began crafting a heartfelt ballad about the yearning for unrequited love. This impromptu collaboration would soon become one of the most enduring love songs in music history.
The song, initially titled “I’ll Try,” was recorded in Nashville’s legendary Bradley Studios on May 7, 1958. However, it was the B-side, “It’s Only Make Believe,” that captured the hearts of listeners. Released in July 1958, the single climbed the charts, eventually reaching the coveted number one spot on the Billboard Hot 100 in November of that year. It remained at the top for two weeks, solidifying Twitty’s place in music history.
“It’s Only Make Believe” resonated with audiences due to its raw emotion and relatable lyrics. The song’s protagonist expresses his deep love for someone who may not reciprocate his feelings, leading to a poignant sense of longing and uncertainty. Twitty’s soulful vocals, combined with the song’s simple yet powerful melody, created a timeless masterpiece that continues to be cherished by music lovers around the world.