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Conway Twitty (September 1, 1933 – June 5, 1993) was an American country music singer, songwriter, and musician, born Harold Lloyd Jenkins in Friars Point, Mississippi. He had a prolific career, recording 55 No. 1 singles, more than any other artist in any genre at the time, earning him a spot in the Country Music Hall of Fame.
Early Life and Career Shift
Twitty grew up in Helena, Arkansas, and started performing as a teenager, initially pursuing a career in rockabilly under the name Conway Twitty, inspired by Conway, Arkansas, and Twitty, Texas. His early hit, "It's Only Make Believe" (1958), reached No. 1 on the pop charts, showcasing his smooth, emotive voice. After a stint in rock and roll, he switched to country music in the mid-1960s, finding his true calling.
Country Music Success
Twitty’s country career took off with hits like "Hello Darlin'" (1970), a signature song that topped the country charts. His style blended traditional country with a soulful, romantic edge, often focusing on themes of love, heartbreak, and longing. Notable hits include:
"You've Never Been This Far Before" (1973)
"Linda on My Mind" (1975)
"Don't Take It Away" (1979)
"Tight Fittin' Jeans" (1981)
He was known for his duets, particularly with Loretta Lynn, with whom he recorded classics like "After the Fire Is Gone" and "Louisiana Woman, Mississippi Man." The duo won multiple CMA Awards for Vocal Duo of the Year.
Style and Legacy
Twitty’s deep, resonant voice and ability to convey raw emotion made him a standout. He wrote many of his own songs and was a savvy businessman, investing in music publishing and even a theme park, Twitty City, in Tennessee. His influence persists in country music, with artists like George Strait and Alan Jackson citing him as an inspiration.
Personal Life and Death
Twitty married three times and had four children. He was known for his charisma and dedication to fans. Tragically, he collapsed on tour in 1993 and died of an abdominal aortic aneurysm at age 59.