That's Life

Frank Sinatra's 'That's Life' is a powerful anthem of resilience and determination in the face of life's ups and downs. The song, released in 1966, has become one of Sinatra's most enduring hits, encapsulating the spirit of perseverance that often characterized his music and public persona. Sinatra's smooth, commanding voice delivers the lyrics with a mix of world-weariness and unbreakable resolve, making the song a timeless classic.

The lyrics of 'That's Life' paint a vivid picture of the cyclical nature of success and failure. Sinatra sings about the highs and lows of life, metaphorically riding high in April and being shot down in May, only to bounce back on top in June. This reflects the common human experience of fluctuating fortunes and the inevitability of facing setbacks. The song's message is clear: no matter how many times life knocks you down, it's important to get back up and keep trying. The use of phrases like 'stompin' on a dream' and being a 'puppet, a pauper, a pirate, a poet, a pawn and a king' illustrates the various roles and challenges one might encounter throughout life's journey.

The cultural impact of 'That's Life' is significant, as it resonates with listeners who find comfort and motivation in its lyrics. Sinatra's portrayal of the relentless fighter who refuses to give up, even considering the option of quitting or 'cuttin' out', but ultimately rejecting it because his heart won't buy it, serves as an inspiration. The song concludes with a somewhat humorous, if dark, determination that if nothing improves by July, the singer might as well 'roll up in a big ball and die', underscoring the dramatic stakes of life's gamble but doing so with a wink, in Sinatra's classic style. 'That's Life' remains a beloved standard, encouraging people to persevere and face life's challenges with grit and grace.