# David Lee Roth Covers Frank Sinatra Song in 1986

> David Lee Roth’s 1986 cover of Frank Sinatra’s 'That’s Life' became a surprise hit after his solo career shift.
- Title: David Lee Roth Covers Frank Sinatra Song in 1986 | Shortify
- Summary: David Lee Roth’s 1986 cover of Frank Sinatra’s 'That’s Life' became a surprise hit after his solo career shift. David Lee Roth covered Frank Sinatra’s…
- Keywords: david lee roth, frank sinatra, that’s life, eat em and smile, van halen, rock music, music, culture, David, Lee, Roth, Covers
- Source: American Songwriter — https://americansongwriter.com/remember-when-a-glam-metal-icon-covered-a-frank-sinatra-song-with-surprising-success-in-1986
- Author: Gayle Thompson
- Published: 2026-11-02T22:00:00+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: david lee roth, frank sinatra, that’s life, eat em and smile, van halen, rock music, music, culture
## Frank Sinatra’s 'That’s Life' Release
Frank Sinatra released 'That’s Life' in 1966, a song written by Dean Kay and Kelly Gordon.
## David Lee Roth’s Cover
David Lee Roth recorded 'That’s Life' in 1986 for his solo album Eat 'Em And Smile.
## Roth’s Solo Career Shift
Roth left Van Halen after his 1985 EP Crazy From The Heat gained success with cover songs.
## Sinatra’s Recording Process
Sinatra recorded 'That’s Life' in multiple takes after initially rejecting a single pass.
## Roth’s Solo Success
Roth achieved his first No. 1 solo hit with 'Just Like Paradise' two years after releasing 'That’s Life'.
## Key takeaway

David Lee Roth covered Frank Sinatra’s 'That’s Life' in 1986, achieving success as a solo artist after leaving Van Halen.