Tunes on Tuesday: Plague

Image of the Negev desert and southern Dead Sea. Text at top left reads 'Tunes on Tuesday April 7, 2026 Plague'

Why this tune?

As we approach the end of Passover, I’m sharing a song inspired by the Torah story of the Ten Plagues (Parashat Vaera in the book of Shemot/Exodus). “Plague” transforms the story into a bluesy breakup song, sung by someone who realizes that their relationship has become toxic and that it’s time to go. I intended it as an echo of the actual Exodus story; after all, the Haggadah recounts what is essentially Israel’s breakup with the Egyptians after a long and unpleasant relationship.

Once again I’m trying my hand at a more involved production, adding bass and drums tracks to the organ and voice.

This is the latest in a series of songs I’m writing inspired by the weekly Torah portions in the Jewish tradition. I’ve written sixteen so far, with several others in draft form and ideas for a few more. There are 53 portions in total.

Have a safe and peaceful end of Passover if you’re celebrating, and happy Spring to all.

Tunes on Tuesday video

Published by Oren Levine

Jazz pianist and songwriter from Washington, DC.

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