Conway Twitty is one of the most recognizable figures in the country music industry. With a multi-decade career, Twitty’s emotional vocals, sympathetic lyrics, and gift for storytelling created a lasting impression on the genre.
Conway Twitty‘s signature songs are “It’s Only Make Believe” and “Hello Darlin’.” Both songs were released in the 1950s and became huge hits. They are still popular today and are considered classics of country music.
Twitty’s songs connected with listeners of all ages, earning nearly 50 No. 1 singles on the country charts. His compositions spoke to listeners on a very emotional level by telling tales of love, loss, and the human experience.
In this article, we will explore the best of Conway Twitty’s songs, including his signature hits, lesser-known gems, covers, and collaborations with other artists that have captured the hearts of country music lovers for generations.
About Conway Twitty
Conway Twitty, an iconic figure in country music history, enchanted audiences with his emotive vocals and relatable lyrics, leaving an indelible mark. Born as Harold Lloyd Jenkins on September 1, 1933, in Friars Point, Mississippi, the legendary Conway Twitty crafted a musical journey that still resonates.
With a stage name that became iconic, he stirred hearts with his romantic ballads. Comedian Jerry Clower affectionately dubbed him “The High Priest of Country Music,” a nod to Twitty’s devoted fan base likened to a religious following, a fitting tribute to the artist’s lasting influence.
Early Life
At just 10 years old, Twitty started performing on the radio, and by 12, he had his own group, the Phillips County Ramblers, with a radio show. A teenage Twitty even preached at church revivals.
Despite a promising baseball career, he turned down a contract with the Philadelphia Phillies to serve in the Army. Inspired by Elvis Presley, he pursued music, recording at Sun Studios and penning songs like “Rockhouse,” eventually making his mark on the industry.
Story Behind Stage Name
After a suggestion from a Cimmarons member, Don Seat became Jenkins’ manager. Searching for star quality, Jenkins embraced the name Conway Twitty in 1957, a combination of Conway, Arkansas, and Twitty, Texas.
He considered using his original name for country music, but after some rock success, he stuck with Conway Twitty, recording briefly for Mercury Records before his contract ended.
Country Music Career
Yearning to explore country music, Twitty transitioned from rock in 1965. Despite initial resistance from some country radio stations, his persistence paid off with hits like “Hello Darlin'” and the celebrated duets with Loretta Lynn.
Twitty’s success surged, achieving an impressive 55 number-one hits throughout his career before his passing in 1993.
Some Major Hits
Conway Twitty produced numerous big successes that forever changed the course of country music. Here is a list of a few of his best songs:
- “Hello Darlin'” (1970)
- “The Rose” (1983)
- “Tight Fittin’ Jeans” (1981)
- “I’d Love to Lay You Down” (1980)
- “Don’t Take It Away” (1979)
- “Slow Hand” (1982)
- “You’ve Never Been This Far Before” (1973)
- “I Can’t Believe She Gives It All to Me” (1972)
- “After the Fire Is Gone” with Loretta Lynn, 1971)
- “Desperado Love” (1986)
- “Goodbye Time” (1988)
Awards
| Award/Organization | Year | Recognition |
|---|---|---|
| Country Music Association | 1972–1975 | Vocal Duo (with Loretta Lynn) – Four consecutive awards |
| Country Music Hall of Fame | – | For his influential contributions |
| Rockabilly Hall of Fame | – | Recognized for his impact on rockabilly music |
| RIAA Gold Disc | – | Awarded for outstanding sales achievements |
| Academy of Country Music | 1974 | Top Vocal Duo (Duo with Loretta Lynn) |
| Academy of Country Music | 1975 | Album of the Year (“Feelins'” with Loretta Lynn) |
| Academy of Country Music | 1975 | Top Male Vocalist |
| Grammy Awards | 1971 | Best Country Performance by a Duo (“After the Fire Is Gone” with Loretta Lynn) |
| Grammy Awards | 1999 | Hall of Fame Award (“Hello Darlin'”) |
| Academy of Country Music Pioneer Award | 2008 | Recognized for pioneering contributions |
Death
Conway fell ill on June 4, 1993, while he was performing in Branson, Missouri. He had an aortic aneurysm which led him to his death at the age of 59.
Exploring The Top 10 Conway Twitty Hits
- Hello Darlin’: This timeless classic’s smooth melody and heartfelt lyrics made it an instant hit, earning Twitty his first No.1 country chart song.
- It’s Only Make Believe: With this early rockabilly hit, Twitty showcased his versatile vocal range, solidifying his place in the music industry.
- Tight Fittin’ Jeans: This upbeat track combined Twitty’s signature storytelling with an infectious rhythm, becoming a favorite on dance floors.
- Don’t Take It Away: Twitty’s emotive delivery in this song perfectly captures the pain of a failing relationship, resonating with anyone who has experienced heartbreak.
- Linda on My Mind: The heartfelt lyrics and relatable theme of longing propelled this song to the top of the charts, becoming a beloved ballad.
- I’d Love to Lay You Down: Twitty’s sultry and suggestive lyrics in this song pushed boundaries, creating a stir in the conservative country scene.
- You’ve Never Been This Far Before: This controversial song tackled taboo subjects with a sense of honesty, making it a memorable entry in Twitty’s discography.
- Slow Hand: Twitty’s cover of this sultry song showcased his ability to reinvent hits and make them uniquely his own.
- Desperado Love: With its twangy melody and heartfelt storytelling, this song further solidified Twitty’s reputation as a masterful storyteller.
- That’s My Job: Twitty’s touching tribute to fatherhood resonated deeply with listeners, showcasing a more vulnerable side of the artist.
Twitty’s Collaborations
- Loretta Lynn: Iconic duets like “After the Fire Is Gone” and “Louisiana Woman, Mississippi Man.”
- George Jones: Covered Twitty’s “Hello Darlin'” after his passing.
- Sam Moore: Teamed up for the soulful track “Rainy Night in Georgia.”
- Anita Cochran: “I Wanna Hear a Cheatin’ Song” showcased Twitty’s lasting influence in country music collaborations.
Covers By Conway Twitty
- Twitty’s renditions of hits like “Slow Hand” (Pointer Sisters), “The Rose” (Bette Midler), and “Heartache Tonight” (Eagles).
- George Jones, Blake Shelton, and more covered his songs, including “Hello Darlin’” and “Goodbye Time.”
- Artists like Oak Ridge Boys, Statler Brothers, and Steve Wariner found success with songs recorded by Twitty but not released as singles.
How Many Top 10s Conway Twitty Has Put Forth?
Conway managed to present to its audience a staggering 75 top ten hits which included:
- “Julia”
- “The Games That Daddies Play”
- “Lost In The Feeling”
- “Rest Your Love On Me”
- “Somebody’s Needin’ Somebody”
- “Slow Hand”
- “Hello Darlin”
- “It’s Only Make Believe”
What Is Conway Twitty’s Signature Song?
Among his signature songs, “It’s Only Make Believe” (alongside “Hello Darlin'”) was self-penned with drummer Jack Nance during a 1958 Ontario tour, featuring as a B-side on his MGM Records album.
How Many #1 Hits?
Conway Twitty held the record for 55 No. 1 hits until George Strait surpassed it, with his final No. 1 being “Crazy in Love” in 1990 on the Cashbox chart.
Is Conway Twitty In the Hall Of Fame?
Unfortunately, Twitty’s undervalued contribution to the history of country music is a lesser-known aspect of his journey. Although he was admitted to the Country Music Hall of Fame in 1999, his family’s efforts to tell his biography were hampered for over 14 years by a protracted legal struggle.
Total Records Sold by Conway Twitty?
Conway Twitty’s album sales surpassed 6,359,000, with 6 million in the US. His top seller, “The Very Best Of,” reached 1 million copies.
Conclusion
- Conway Twitty, a country music legend, touched hearts with hits like “Hello Darlin'” and “It’s Only Make Believe.”
- Collaborations with Loretta Lynn and George Jones showcased his enduring influence.
- Twitty’s music spanned genres, covering rock hits like “Slow Hand” and soulful tracks.
- Despite a legal battle, his legacy endures through his Hall of Fame induction and numerous chart-toppers.
- With over 6 million album sales, Twitty’s impact on music remains immeasurable.