About the song
“It’s Only Make Believe” is a song that holds a unique place in the history of popular music, and Glen Campbell’s 1970 version of this classic further cemented its enduring appeal. Originally written by Jack Nance and Conway Twitty in 1958, the song became a significant hit for Twitty, reaching the top of the Billboard Hot 100. Glen Campbell, a renowned country artist, brought his own interpretation to the song, recording it for his album The Glen Campbell Goodtime Album, which was one of four albums he released in 1970.
Campbell’s version of “It’s Only Make Believe” was arranged and produced by Al De Lory. Released as a single by Capitol Records, it was backed by the song “Pave Your Way Into Tomorrow.” The release marked another success for Campbell, as the song quickly climbed the charts. In 1970, it reached impressive positions: No. 1 on the Australian KMR chart, No. 3 on the US Hot Country Songs chart, and No. 10 on the US Billboard Hot 100. It also made notable appearances on the UK Singles Chart, reaching No. 4, and the Euro Hit 50, where it peaked at No. 10.
The success of Campbell’s rendition was not limited to the US and UK; it also found considerable success in Canada, where it peaked at No. 4 on the Canada Country Tracks and No. 5 on the Canada Top Singles chart. The song’s smooth blend of country and pop, along with Campbell’s signature style, contributed to its broad appeal.
“It’s Only Make Believe” has been covered by numerous artists over the years, reflecting its wide-reaching impact. Notable versions include those by The Hollies in 1964, who featured the song on their album Stay With The Hollies, and Billy Fury, who also achieved a top 10 hit with his rendition in the UK and Ireland. Ronnie McDowell recorded a duet version with Twitty in 1988, and pop band Child brought the song back to the top ten in the UK Singles Chart in 1978. Even R&B singer Sam Moore recorded a version with Mariah Carey and Vince Gill for his 2006 album Overnight Sensational.
Glen Campbell’s take on “It’s Only Make Believe” remains a cherished part of his musical legacy, showcasing his ability to breathe new life into a classic and resonate with audiences around the world.
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 give for you
My heart, a wedding ring, my all, my everything
My heart I can’t control, you rule my very soul
My plans, my hopes, my schemes
You are my every dream, 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 just how much I love you so
My only prayer will be that some day you’ll care for me
But it’s only make believe