David Bowie Performs “Life on Mars?” “Life on Mars?” is a song by the English musician David Bowie, first released on his 1971 album Hunky Dory. Written as a parody of Frank Sinatra’s “My Way”, “Life on Mars?” was recorded on 6 August 1971 at Trident Studios in London, and was co-produced by Bowie and Ken Scott. The track features piano by Rick Wakeman and a string arrangement by the guitarist Mick Ronson. “Life on Mars?” is primarily a glam rock ballad, with elements of cabaret and art rock. Th