About the song
In the tapestry of American popular music, few voices resonate with the raw emotion and heartfelt sincerity of Conway Twitty. A master of conveying vulnerability and longing, Twitty’s career spanned decades, leaving an indelible mark on the country and pop charts. His ability to inhabit a song, to truly become the heartbroken narrator, is a testament to his artistry and his profound connection with his audience.
Among his treasure trove of hits, “It’s Only Make Believe” holds a special place. Released in 1958, this song catapulted Twitty to international stardom, showcasing his remarkable vocal range and his uncanny ability to tap into the universal experience of love and loss. With its soaring melody and poignant lyrics, the song captured the hearts of a generation, solidifying Twitty’s status as a true icon.
“It’s Only Make Believe” tells the story of a man desperately clinging to a love that has slipped away. He constructs a world of illusion, pretending that his lost love is still by his side. The song’s power lies in its raw honesty, its unflinching portrayal of heartbreak and denial. Twitty’s voice, filled with a mixture of yearning and despair, perfectly captures the protagonist’s emotional turmoil.
The song’s impact was immediate and profound. It topped the Billboard Hot 100 chart for two weeks, becoming a crossover hit that resonated with audiences across genres. Its popularity transcended borders, reaching the top ten in numerous countries around the world. “It’s Only Make Believe” became an anthem for the heartbroken, a testament to the enduring power of love and loss.
More than just a commercial success, “It’s Only Make Believe” is a testament to Conway Twitty‘s artistry. It showcases his ability to connect with his audience on a deeply emotional level, to give voice to the unspoken feelings that reside within us all. Even today, decades after its release, the song continues to resonate with listeners, reminding us of the enduring power of love, loss, and the human spirit’s capacity for hope and resilience.
Video
Lyrics
People see us everywhere
They think you really care
But myself, I can’t deceive
I know it’s only make-believe
My one and only prayer is that some day you’ll care
My hopes, my dreams come true, my one and only you
No one will ever know how much I love you so
My only prayer will be, some day you’ll care for me
But it’s only make-believe
My hopes, my dreams come true, my life, I’d give for you
My heart, a wedding ring, my all, my everything
My heart I can’t control, you rule my very soul
My only prayer will be, some day you’ll care for me
But it’s only make-believe
My one and only prayer is that some day you’ll care
My hopes, my dreams come true, my one and only you
No one will ever know how much I love you so
My prayers, my hopes, and my schemes, you are my every dream
But it’s only make-believe, mm (make-believe)