About the song
“That’s Life” stands as a quintessential anthem of resilience and optimism, first recorded in 1963 by Marion Montgomery but immortalized by Frank Sinatra on his 1966 album of the same name. Written by Dean Kay and Kelly Gordon, the song’s enduring popularity lies in its uplifting message: despite life’s inevitable challenges and setbacks, one should persevere with positivity, knowing that better times are ahead.
Frank Sinatra’s rendition of “That’s Life” became the definitive version after he heard O.C. Smith’s recording of the song in 1965. Enthralled by its spirit, Sinatra promptly decided to record his own version, which was arranged by Ernie Freeman and produced by Jimmy Bowen. Recorded at United Recording Studios in Hollywood on July 25, 1966, the song featured a robust arrangement with brass accompaniments and background vocals by B.J. Baker, Gwen Johnson, and Jackie Ward.
Upon its release, Sinatra’s interpretation soared to number four on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and secured the top position on the Easy Listening chart for three consecutive weeks in late 1966 and early 1967. Its success not only reaffirmed Sinatra’s status as a masterful interpreter of song but also cemented “That’s Life” as a timeless classic in American popular music.
Over the years, “That’s Life” has been covered by a myriad of artists across different genres, including Aretha Franklin, James Brown, Shirley Bassey, and Michael Bublé, among others. Its appearance in various films and television shows, such as “A Bronx Tale,” “Joker,” and “Brooklyn Nine-Nine,” further attests to its enduring cultural impact and universal appeal.
Beyond its musical prowess, “That’s Life” encapsulates a sentiment that resonates deeply with listeners: the affirmation that life’s trials are temporary and can be overcome with resilience and a positive outlook. This enduring message, coupled with Sinatra’s iconic delivery, continues to inspire and uplift audiences, making “That’s Life” an indispensable part of the American musical canon.
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Lyrics
That’s life (that’s life)
That’s what all the people say
You’re riding high in April, shot down in May
But I know I’m gonna change that tune
When I’m back on top, back on top in June
I said that’s life (that’s life)
And as funny as it may seem
Some people get their kicks
Stomping on a dream
But I don’t let it, let it get me down
Cause this fine old world, it keeps spinnin’ around
I’ve been a puppet, a pauper, a pirate, a poet
A pawn and a king
I’ve been up and down and over and out
And I know one thing
Each time I find myself
Flat on my face
I pick myself up and get
Back in the race
That’s life (that’s life)
I tell you, I can’t deny it
I thought of quitting, baby
But my heart just ain’t gonna buy it
And if I didn’t think it was worth one single try
I’d jump right on a big bird and then I’d fly
I’ve been a puppet, a pauper, a pirate, a poet
A pawn and a king
I’ve been up and down and over and out
And I know one thing
Each time I find myself layin’
Flat on my face
I just pick myself up and get
Back in the race
That’s life (that’s life)
That’s life and I can’t deny it
Many times I thought of cutting out, but my heart won’t buy it
But if there’s nothing shaking, come this here July
I’m gonna roll myself up
In a big ball and die
My, my