10 Essential Conway Twitty Classics

Conway Twitty, the legendary “Hello Darlin'” crooner, was a musical force who left an indelible mark on the country music landscape. His rich baritone voice and heartfelt lyrics resonated with audiences across generations, making him one of the most beloved and successful artists of his time. From his early days as a rockabilly rebel to his later years as a country music icon, Twitty’s music transcended genres and touched the hearts of millions.

Born Harold Lloyd Jenkins in 1933, Twitty’s musical journey began in the 1950s when he recorded several rockabilly singles under the name “Conway Twitty.” His early songs, such as “It’s Only Make Believe” and “Lonely Blue Boy,” showcased his powerful vocals and raw energy. However, it wasn’t until he switched to country music in the mid-1960s that Twitty’s career truly took off. His rich baritone voice and emotional delivery were perfectly suited to the genre, and he quickly became one of the top-selling country artists of the era.

Twitty’s string of hits throughout the 1960s and 1970s solidified his status as a country music legend. Songs like “Hello Darlin’,” “You’ve Never Been This Far Before,” and “Linda on My Mind” became timeless classics, capturing the hearts of both critics and fans. Twitty’s ability to convey raw emotions through his music resonated with audiences, and his songs became anthems for lovers, broken hearts, and the everyday struggles of life. Beyond his solo career, Twitty also had a successful partnership with Loretta Lynn, recording numerous duets that topped the country charts and further cemented his place in the annals of country music history.

The Legendary Voice of Country Music

A Voice That Defined an Era

Conway Twitty, born Harold Lloyd Jenkins, possessed a voice that left an indelible mark on country music. His rich baritone, ranging from a velvety smoothness to a soaring, effortless power, was both distinctive and timeless. With a career spanning over four decades, he released numerous hit songs, including “Hello Darlin’,” “It’s Only Make Believe,” and “You’ve Never Been This Far Before.” Twitty’s voice was not merely a vocal instrument; it was an emotive force that conveyed a range of emotions, from tender vulnerability to raw, heartfelt passion. His ability to connect with listeners on a profound level is a testament to his exceptional talent and the enduring legacy of his music.

Chart-topping Success

Conway Twitty enjoyed immense chart success throughout his career. His 40 number-one hits make him one of the most celebrated artists in country music history. His dominance on the charts spanned decades, with his first number-one hit, “It’s Only Make Believe,” topping the charts in 1958. Twitty continued to release chart-topping singles throughout the 1960s, 1970s, and 1980s, solidifying his status as a country music icon.

Musical Innovations

Conway Twitty was not only a gifted vocalist but also a musical innovator. He played a major role in popularizing the “outlaw country” movement of the 1970s, with his music often featuring themes of rebellion and nonconformity. Twitty also experimented with blending country with other genres, such as rock and roll and soul, resulting in a unique and eclectic sound that appealed to a wider audience. His willingness to push musical boundaries further cemented his legacy as a true trailblazer in country music.

Awards and Recognition

Conway Twitty’s exceptional talent was recognized throughout his career. He won numerous Grammy Awards, Academy of Country Music Awards, and Country Music Association Awards. In 1998, he was inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame, a prestigious honor that celebrates the greatest artists in the history of the genre. Twitty’s music continues to be a staple of country radio and is enjoyed by fans of all ages.

Discography

Album	Year Released
Conway Twitty Sings	1958
It’s Only Make Believe	1959
Lonely Blue Boy	1960
She’s Got What It Takes	1961
The Conway Twitty Touch	1962

A Master of Storytelling Through Song

Conway Twitty was a master of storytelling through song. His songs were often about the everyday lives of ordinary people, and he had a knack for capturing the emotions and experiences of his listeners.

He Was a Master of the Heartfelt Ballad

One of Conway Twitty’s greatest strengths was his ability to write and perform heartfelt ballads. These songs were often about love, loss, and heartache, and they resonated deeply with his audience. Some of his most popular ballads include “Hello Darlin’,” “You’ve Never Been This Far Before,” and “Crazy in Love.”

The King of Countrypolitan

Conway Twitty, born Harold Lloyd Jenkins in 1933, was an American country music singer, songwriter, and actor. Known as “The King of Countrypolitan,” he blended country, pop, and rockabilly genres to create a unique and popular sound that dominated the country music charts for decades.

The Rise of a Legend:

Twitty’s career began in the 1950s as a rockabilly singer under the name Danny Knight. In the early 1960s, he switched to country music and adopted his iconic name. With his smooth baritone voice and captivating stage presence, he quickly became a major star.

The Countrypolitan Era:

In the 1970s, Twitty perfected the “Countrypolitan” sound, which blended traditional country elements with pop and rock influences. His collaborations with producer Billy Sherrill resulted in a string of hit songs, including “You’ve Never Been This Far Before” (1970), “Hello Darlin’ (1970), and “Linda on My Mind” (1975).

A Decade of Hits:

Year	Song
1970	You’ve Never Been This Far Before
1970	Hello Darlin’
1971	Fifteen Years Ago
1972	I Can’t See Me Without You
1973	Slow Hand
1974	Sixteen Tons
1975	Linda on My Mind
1976	Play, Guitar, Play
1977	Desperado Love
1978	Don’t Cry Joni

Heartfelt Ballads that Captivated Millions

Conway Twitty’s heart-wrenching ballads struck a chord with millions, earning him the title of “Mr. Romance.” His ability to convey raw emotions through his songs resonated deeply with his audience.

The Ballad of the Lonely Man

Released in 1963, this haunting ballad tells the tale of a solitary man searching for connection. Twitty’s mournful vocals and the song’s poignant lyrics created an instant classic.

You’ll Never Know What You’re Missing

This 1978 chart-topper showcases Twitty’s vocal prowess and romantic charm. The song expresses the pain and regret of a love lost, leaving an unforgettable imprint on listeners’ hearts.

Georgia Keeps Pulling on My Ring

A captivating masterpiece released in 1975, this song tells the bittersweet tale of a man longing for his hometown and the woman he left behind. Twitty’s interpretation is both emotionally charged and deeply evocative, capturing the essence of homesickness and unresolved love.

Song	Year	Chart Position
The Ballad of the Lonely Man	1963	#1
You’ll Never Know What You’re Missing	1978	#1
Georgia Keeps Pulling on My Ring	1975	#3

The Virtuosic Guitarist

Conway Twitty’s guitar skills were a cornerstone of his musical prowess. His signature twangy, yet melodic playing style captivated audiences and established him as a master guitarist.

Twitty’s early musical influences, ranging from country to rockabilly, shaped his unique approach to guitar playing. His distinctive picking technique, which combined elements of chicken picking and fingerpicking, created a melodic and rhythmic tapestry that complemented his powerful vocals.

Beyond his technical abilities, Twitty’s guitar playing was characterized by an emotional depth that added depth and nuance to his performances. His ability to articulate a wide range of emotions, from longing to joy, through his guitar work showcased his virtuosity.

Throughout his career, Twitty collaborated with some of the most renowned guitarists in country music, including Chet Atkins and Merle Haggard. These collaborations not only honed Twitty’s skills but also inspired him to push the boundaries of his guitar playing.

Twitty’s guitar prowess extended beyond the confines of the stage. He was also an acclaimed studio musician, lending his talents to recordings by numerous artists. His ability to create memorable guitar riffs and solos that complemented the songs elevated his status as a true guitar virtuoso.

Album Title	Release Year	Notable Guitar Tracks
Countrypolitan	1965	“It’s Only Make Believe,” “Lonely Blue Boy”
Hello Darlin’	1970	“Hello Darlin’,” “Womanhood”
Honky Tonk Woman	1974	“Honky Tonk Woman,” “You Can’t Make a Heart Stop Lovin'”

Collaborations that Transcended Boundaries

Conway Twitty’s collaborations with other artists were a testament to his versatility and his willingness to explore new sounds and genres. He was able to create memorable duets with a wide range of artists, from country legends to pop stars.

One of his most famous collaborations was with Loretta Lynn. Their 1971 hit “You’re the Reason Our Kids Are Ugly” became a crossover success, reaching the top of both the country and pop charts. Lynn and Twitty continued to collaborate throughout their careers, releasing several more duets, including “Louisiana Woman, Mississippi Man” and “After the Fire Is Gone.”

Twitty also had several successful collaborations with Sammy Kershaw. Their first duet, “Don’t Make Me Go There,” was released in 1991 and became a major hit. They followed it up with several more duets, including “Ol’ Red” and “Me and You.” Kershaw’s powerful vocals and Twitty’s smooth delivery complemented each other perfectly, creating some of the most memorable duets in country music history.

In addition to his collaborations with Lynn and Kershaw, Twitty also worked with a number of other artists, including Johnny Cash, Dolly Parton, and George Jones. He was always willing to step outside of his comfort zone and try new things, and his collaborations helped to introduce his music to a wider audience.

Here is a table of some of Twitty’s most notable collaborations:

Collaborator	Songs
Loretta Lynn	“You’re the Reason Our Kids Are Ugly,” “Louisiana Woman, Mississippi Man,” “After the Fire Is Gone”
Sammy Kershaw	“Don’t Make Me Go There,” “Ol’ Red,” “Me and You”
Johnny Cash	“The One on the Right Is on the Left”
Dolly Parton	“Two Story House”
George Jones	“She Thinks I Still Care”

Breaking Barriers in the Music Industry

Conway Twitty’s career spanned multiple decades and genres, making him an undeniable force in the music industry. His ability to transcend boundaries and defy expectations set him apart as a truly remarkable artist.

Crossing Genre Boundaries

Twitty started his career as a rock and roll artist, but he gradually transitioned to country music, becoming one of the first artists to successfully blend both genres. His crossover appeal allowed him to connect with a wide audience, proving that boundaries could be blurred without compromising authenticity.

Breaking Down Racial Barriers

In the segregated South of the 1950s, Twitty defied societal norms by performing with Black musicians like Sonny Burgess. His willingness to challenge prejudices played a role in bridging the racial divide in the music industry.

Embracing Multiple Instruments

Twitty was proficient on several instruments, including guitar, bass, and drums. His versatility allowed him to contribute to both the songwriting and recording processes, giving him a unique edge in the industry.

Hit-Making Machine

Twitty’s prolific songwriting and recording career resulted in numerous hit songs that topped the charts. He co-wrote many of his most famous songs, including “Hello Darlin’,” “You’re the Reason My Heart Is Breaking,” and “I’ve Got a Feelin’.”

Commercial Success and Longevity

Twitty’s ability to sell records and maintain popularity for over three decades is a testament to his timeless appeal. He won numerous awards, including multiple Grammy Awards and Country Music Association Awards, and he was inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame in 1997.

Influence on Future Artists

Twitty’s innovative approach to music influenced generations of artists. His ability to combine genres, challenge societal norms, and create enduring hits made him a significant figure in country music history.

Achievement	Details
Genre Crossover	Blended rock and roll and country music
Racial Barrier Breaker	Performed with Black musicians and challenged segregation
Multi-Instrumental Proficiency	Played guitar, bass, and drums
Hit-Making Success	Co-wrote and recorded numerous chart-topping songs
Commercial Longevity	Maintained popularity for over three decades
Industry Recognition	Won multiple Grammy Awards and CMA Awards
Influence on Future Artists	Inspired and influenced generations of musicians

The Enduring Legacy of Conway Twitty

The King of Country Crooners

Conway Twitty, the legendary country music icon, left an enduring mark on the industry and the hearts of his fans. With his distinctive baritone voice and heartfelt lyrics, he captivated audiences for decades.

Chart-Topping Success

Twitty achieved phenomenal commercial success, with 55 No. 1 hits on the Billboard Country charts, earning him the title “Mr. Country.” His remarkable string of hits included classics like “Hello Darlin’,” “It’s Only Make Believe,” and “You’ve Never Been This Far Before.”

Musical Evolution

Throughout his career, Twitty evolved musically, blending traditional country with elements of rock and pop. He embraced new sounds and styles, captivating listeners of all ages.

Signature Style

Twitty’s signature style was characterized by his rich, resonant voice, passionate delivery, and romantic lyrics that resonated deeply with his audience.

Lyrical Genius

As a songwriter, Twitty penned countless hits, including many of his own chart-toppers. His lyrics often delved into themes of love, loss, and resilience.

Influence on Country Music

Twitty left a lasting impact on country music, inspiring countless artists and shaping the genre’s evolution. His pioneering spirit and unwavering commitment to authenticity continue to be an inspiration.

Personal Life

Twitty’s personal life was often tumultuous, but he remained a dedicated husband and father. His struggles and triumphs added depth to his performances.

Posthumous Recognition

After his untimely passing in 1993, Twitty’s legacy lived on. He was inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum in 1999 and the Grand Ole Opry in 2009.

Legacy Table

Accomplishments	Recognition
55 No. 1 hits on Billboard Country chart	Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum (1999)
Sales of over 50 million records	Grand Ole Opry (2009)
Pioneered the blending of country, rock, and pop	Grammy Award for Best Country Vocal Performance (1986)

A Pioneer of Modern Country Music

Conway Twitty was a legendary country music singer, songwriter, and guitarist who left an indelible mark on the genre. His signature blend of traditional country and pop elements helped shape the sound of modern country music.

Early Life and Career

Born Harold Jenkins in Mississippi in 1933, Twitty began singing and playing guitar as a child. After moving to Nashville in 1956, he signed with Decca Records and released his debut single, “It’s Only Make Believe,” which became a Top 10 hit.

Breakthrough Success

Twitty’s breakthrough came in 1965 with the release of “Fifteen Years Ago,” which topped the country charts and won him a Grammy Award. His subsequent albums and singles continued to dominate the charts, including “Hello Darlin’,” “Linda on My Mind,” and “You’re the Reason I’m Living.”

Crossover Appeal

In the early 1970s, Twitty began experimenting with pop music, incorporating elements into his country songs. This crossover appeal won him a wider audience and helped popularize country music to a broader demographic.

Duets with Loretta Lynn

Throughout his career, Twitty collaborated with fellow country music star Loretta Lynn on several duets. Their most famous songs, “Louisiana Woman, Mississippi Man” and “After the Fire Is Gone,” became some of the biggest hits in country music history.

Influence and Legacy

Conway Twitty’s influence on country music is undeniable. His innovative sound, soulful vocals, and prolific songwriting made him one of the most successful and influential artists in the genre. He was inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame in 1999 and continues to be revered by fans and musicians alike.

Accomplishments and Awards

Award	Year
Grammy Award for Best Country & Western Vocal Performance, Male	1965
Academy of Country Music Award for Entertainer of the Year	1971, 1973
Country Music Association Award for Male Vocalist of the Year	1972, 1973
Inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame	1999

A Symbol of Love and Loss in Country Music

1. Early Life and Career

Conway Twitty was born Harold Lloyd Jenkins in Friars Point, Mississippi, in 1933. He began performing in clubs as a teenager and signed his first record deal in the early 1950s.

2. Breakthrough Hit

In 1958, Twitty’s single “It’s Only Make Believe” topped the country charts and became a major hit.

3. A String of Hits

Throughout the 1960s and 1970s, Twitty released a string of hit songs, including “Hello Darlin’,” “Crazy Arms,” and “You’ve Never Been This Far Before.”

4. Duet with Loretta Lynn

In the 1970s, Twitty began releasing duets with country star Loretta Lynn. Their collaborations, including “Louisiana Woman, Mississippi Man,” were huge successes.

5. The Grand Ole Opry

Twitty was inducted into the Grand Ole Opry in 1970, a prestigious honor for country music artists.

6. Acting Career

In addition to his music career, Twitty also acted in several films and television shows.

7. Passing of His Wife

In 1987, Twitty’s wife passed away. The loss had a profound impact on his life and music.

8. Tribute Albums

After his wife’s passing, Twitty released several tribute albums dedicated to her memory.

9. Conway’s Legacy

Conway Twitty’s music and legacy continue to inspire and resonate with country music fans worldwide.

10. Career Highlights and Accomplishments

Accomplishment

Year

Number-one country singles

55

Number-one duet singles with Loretta Lynn

5

Grammy Awards

4

CMA Awards

2

Inducted into the Grand Ole Opry

1970

Accomplishment	Year
Number-one country singles	55
Number-one duet singles with Loretta Lynn	5
Grammy Awards	4
CMA Awards	2
Inducted into the Grand Ole Opry	1970

The Best of Conway Twitty

Conway Twitty is one of the most successful and iconic country music singers of all time. With a career spanning over four decades, he released over 50 studio albums and charted over 90 singles on the Billboard Country Charts. His music has been described as a blend of country, pop, and rock, and he is known for his powerful vocals and his signature string of hit songs including “Hello Darlin'”, “Louisiana Woman, Mississippi Man,” and “You’ve Never Been This Far Before.” Twitty was a pioneer in the genre of countrypolitan music, which combined elements of country and pop music, and he helped to popularize the genre in the 1970s and 1980s.

In addition to his success as a singer, Twitty was also a successful songwriter and actor. He wrote or co-wrote many of his own hit songs, and he also appeared in several films and television shows. He was a charismatic performer with a charming personality, and he was known for his sense of humor and his love of life. Twitty died in 1993 at the age of 59, but his music continues to be enjoyed by fans around the world.