Ray Charles and Frank Sinatra wearing suits

Frank Sinatra’s “That’s Life” doesn’t sound much like Ray Charles’ music. Despite that, the song was originally meant for Charles. During an interview, the song’s co-writer explained how Nancy Sinatra helped her father put out the track before Charles had the chance.

Ray Charles and Frank Sinatra wearing suits
Ray Charles and Frank Sinatra | Michael Ochs Archives / Stringer

The lyrics for Frank Sinatra’s ‘That’s Life’ were taken away from Ray Charles’ office

Dean Kay co-wrote “That’s Life.” According to his website, he tried to pitch the tune to Ray Charles at first. Instead, an unknown singer named Marion Montgomery recorded it first. Then, O.C. Smith took a crack at the song.

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