About the song
“It’s Only Make Believe” is a timeless rock ‘n’ roll classic that has stood the test of time, captivating audiences for generations. Written by drummer Jack Nance and Mississippi-born singer Conway Twitty in 1958, this iconic song was Twitty’s first hit, reaching the top spot on the Billboard chart for two weeks in November of that year. The song’s success was a game-changer for Twitty, propelling him to stardom and cementing his place in the annals of rock ‘n’ roll history.
The song’s origins are rooted in a chance encounter between Nance and Twitty during a tour across Ontario, Canada. Nance, a member of Twitty’s band, penned the majority of the song during an intermission at the Flamingo Lounge in Hamilton, Ontario, with Twitty providing the finishing touches. The duo recorded a demo of the song, which they sent to Twitty’s manager, Don Seat, along with another song, “I’ll Try.” MGM Records took notice of the songs and arranged for them to be recorded in Nashville, Tennessee, on May 7, 1958.
The resulting recording featured Twitty’s distinctive vocals, backed by the Jordanaires, with contributions from renowned musicians such as Floyd Cramer on piano, Grady Martin on guitar, and Floyd “Lightnin'” Chance on double bass. Produced by Jim Vienneau, the song was released on July 14, 1958, as the B-side to “I’ll Try.” Little did anyone know that this humble B-side would go on to become a global phenomenon, topping charts in 22 countries and selling over 8 million copies.
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 prayer, my hopes, my schemes
You are my every thing
But it’s only make believe (make believe)