About the song
“Making Believe,” a timeless country music classic penned by Jimmy Work, has left an indelible mark on the genre since its original release. Recorded in 1955, the song found its definitive rendition in Kitty Wells’ chart-topping version, which soared to number two on the Billboard country charts and remained a fixture for 15 weeks. Despite being held from the top spot by Webb Pierce’s enduring hit “In the Jailhouse Now,” Wells’ rendition solidified “Making Believe” as a staple in country music history.
The song’s enduring appeal is underscored by its inclusion on numerous lists of the greatest country songs of all time. Its poignant lyrics, narrating the longing and heartache of a love lost, struck a chord with audiences then and continue to resonate today. The melancholic ballad explores themes of unrequited love and the bittersweet hope that lingers despite knowing the truth—that the love will never be reciprocated.
Over the decades, “Making Believe” has been covered by an array of artists spanning different genres, attesting to its universal appeal and enduring relevance. Notable renditions include those by music icons like Bob Dylan, Johnny Cash, Dolly Parton, Merle Haggard, and Ray Charles, each bringing their unique interpretations while honoring the song’s emotional depth and lyrical poignancy.
The song’s resurgence in the late 1970s through covers by The Kendalls and Emmylou Harris further solidified its place in the contemporary country music landscape. Even beyond country music circles, artists like Social Distortion and Volbeat have incorporated “Making Believe” into their repertoire, showcasing its versatility and timeless quality.
Loretta Lynn and Conway Twitty also lent their voices to the song in 1988, releasing a memorable duet version that underscored their chemistry and mutual respect as country music legends. Although not a major radio hit, the song remained a beloved favorite at their concerts, highlighting its enduring popularity among fans of traditional country music.
Ray Charles’ rendition on his influential album “Modern Sounds in Country and Western Music Volume Two” brought the song to new audiences, demonstrating its cross-genre appeal and significance in American music history.
“Making Believe” continues to captivate listeners with its emotive storytelling and universal themes, making it a cherished part of the country music canon and a testament to Jimmy Work’s enduring songwriting legacy.
Video
Lyrics
Make-believe that we’re happy
Make-believe that we’re happy
Just pretend that it’s true
Just pretend that it’s true
Make-believe you have me
I’ll make believe I have you
We’ll make-believe ’til we can make it come true
You belong to another
You belong to another
I belong to someone too
I belong to someone too
But they can’t seem to see
That our love just has to be
We’ll make-believe ’til we can make it come true
Maybe someday up above
Maybe someday up above
We’ll understand our kind of love
We’ll understand our kind of love
We know a love like ours is real
I know just the way you feel
We’ll make-believe ’til we can make it come true
Make-believe that we’re happy
Make-believe that we’re happy
Just pretend that it’s true
Just pretend that it’s true
Make-believe you have me
I’ll make believe I have you
We’ll make-believe ’til we can make it come true