About the song
Conway Twitty’s “It’s Only Make Believe” is a timeless ballad that has captured the hearts of listeners for decades. Released in 1958, this song marked a pivotal moment in Twitty’s career, propelling him from a regional rockabilly star to a national sensation. Its enduring popularity can be attributed to its poignant lyrics, melodic composition, and Twitty’s emotive vocal delivery.
The song’s narrative revolves around a man who yearns for reciprocation of his love. He sings of a fantasy world where his affections are returned, but acknowledges that it’s merely a figment of his imagination. The lyrics are filled with longing and vulnerability, as the protagonist grapples with the painful reality of unrequited love. Twitty’s voice, with its distinctive warmth and sincerity, conveys the depth of the character’s emotional turmoil.
Musically, “It’s Only Make Believe” is characterized by its simple yet effective arrangement. The melody is both haunting and memorable, and the instrumentation is sparse, allowing Twitty’s vocals to take center stage. The song’s production is characteristic of the era, with a touch of reverb and a slightly echoey sound that adds to its nostalgic appeal.
“It’s Only Make Believe” has been covered by numerous artists over the years, testifying to its enduring appeal. Twitty’s original version remains the definitive interpretation, however, capturing the song’s essence with its heartfelt performance and timeless message. This classic ballad continues to resonate with audiences of all ages, serving as a testament to the power of music to evoke deep emotions and connect with listeners on a universal level.
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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 prayer, my hopes, my schemes
You are my every thing
But it’s only make believe (make believe)