“Scroll down to the end of the article to listen to music.”
Introduction
“Making Believe” is a classic country song that gained significant popularity through the rendition by Kitty Wells in 1955. The song is noted for its emotive portrayal of heartache and longing, which resonated deeply with audiences of the time. Kitty Wells’ performance helped solidify her status as a pioneering female artist in the country music genre, and the song itself has been covered by numerous artists over the years, illustrating its lasting appeal.
About The Composition
- Title: Making Believe (1955)
- Composer: Jimmy Work
- Premiere Date: 1955
- Album/Opus/Collection: Included in various compilations
- Genre: Country
Background
“Making Believe” was originally written by Jimmy Work, who also recorded it before Kitty Wells’ version became a hit. The song explores themes of unrequited love and emotional pain, common motifs in country music of that era. Kitty Wells’ interpretation was released during a time when female voices were beginning to emerge more prominently in country music, and her rendition struck a chord with listeners, reaching high positions on music charts.
Musical Style
The musical style of “Making Believe” is characterized by its traditional country instrumentation, including acoustic guitar and pedal steel guitar, which complement Kitty Wells’ heartfelt vocal delivery. The song’s melody is simple yet poignant, allowing the emotional depth of the lyrics to shine through.
Lyrics/Libretto
The lyrics of “Making Believe” delve into the pain of pretending to be happy while dealing with the sorrow of lost love. This theme of emotional facade is a powerful narrative that many listeners find relatable, contributing to the song’s enduring popularity.
Performance History
Beyond Kitty Wells’ iconic version, “Making Believe” has been covered by several notable artists, including Emmylou Harris and Johnny Cash, each bringing their own unique style to the piece. Its frequent reinterpretations showcase the song’s versatility and its impact on artists across different generations.
Cultural Impact
“Making Believe” has appeared in various media forms, solidifying its place in popular culture. The song’s emotional resonance has made it a favorite for inclusion in film and television soundtracks, often used to underscore scenes of emotional turmoil and introspection.
Legacy
Today, “Making Believe” is remembered as a classic in the country music canon. Its themes of heartache and longing continue to resonate with new audiences, and its influence can be seen in the work of contemporary country artists who explore similar emotional landscapes in their music.
Conclusion
“Making Believe” by Kitty Wells remains a poignant reminder of the power of music to convey deep emotion. Its simple yet powerful lyrics and melody continue to captivate listeners. For anyone interested in the roots of country music, this song is a must-listen and a gateway to exploring the rich history of the genre.
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