jazz songs – Oren Levine, jazz pianist and songwriter

Tunes on Tuesday: The Last Banana

Photo of Oren Levine playing the piano and singing. Text at top left reads 'Tunes on Tuesday June 10, 2025 The Last Banana'

Why this tune? I just spent an enjoyable weekend at the Vocal Jazz Summit in Virginia Beach, VA, learning and connecting with over 80 jazz vocalists from all over. For my spot in the vocal jam session I pulled out this song, which I wrote in 2024 as a musical apology for a breakfast offense. I was gratifiedContinue reading “Tunes on Tuesday: The Last Banana”

Tunes on Tuesday: Conversation

Photo of Oren Levine playing an electric piano. He is wearing a St. Croix t-shirt and headphones. Text at upper left reads 'Tunes on Tuesday June 3, 2025 Conversation'

Why this tune? I’ve heard from several songwriters that the best writing is rewriting. I’m following that principle with this week’s tune. I started working on “Conversation” in February, when I wrote the first version during a “skirmish” challenge, writing to a song prompt. I’ve gone back several times to review and improve the lyrics and the structure. I madeContinue reading “Tunes on Tuesday: Conversation”