Based in the Sunshine State, Jazz pianist Mike Levine has developed a reputation as a solid player, producer and composer on the Miami scene. With a career that stretches back to the early 80’s, the University of Miami alumnus made his record debut in 1981 as co-leader of The Ross-Levine Band, a project upon which Pat Metheny was a guest artist. The effort drew national attention and remained in the top ten of the AC-Jazz Chart for six weeks. The subsequent effort also faired well and paved the band’s way as an opening act for such highly regarded performers as Michael Franks, Gato Barbieri and Dionne Warwick.
In the times since, Levine has enjoyed a variety of gigs and recordings with Mel Torme,The Jaco Pastorius Big Band,Ed Calle,Michael Bolton,Les DeMerle, David Sanborn,Roberto Perrera,Billy Ross,Greg Abate and John Secada to touring in Mexico, Costa Rica, Dominican Republic and Canada. His festivals appearances have been several, The Montreal, Detroit, Syracuse, Aruba, Amelia Island, Panama City and Berks Jazz Festivals.
“From The Heart”, Mikes debut CD, featured special guests Hiram Bullock and Ed Calle. This 2008 release landed Mike on SmoothJazz.com Indie Chart for over forty weeks.
His second CD, “Thinking Of You”, was released March 12, 2012 and landed on the Billboard Jazz Tune Chart for 5 weeks with “Walkin Tall” as well as the SmoothJazz. Com/ Indie Chart. Along with South Florida finest, Mikes special guests were Will Lee, Ed Calle and Billy Ross.
Mikes third CD “Star Gazing”, also a national release, features Andy Snitzer, Ed Calle, Will Lee, and Lindsey Blair along with South Florida’s finest.
On Feb 22 2021 Mike’s fourth CD, “Just Chillin” was released and landed him on SiriusXM satellite radio with two singles. Special guests include: Steve Oliver, Andy Snitzer, Will Lee, Nestor Torres, Ed Calle, and Lindsey Blair.
“That is a great CD. You have a gift of interpretation of tunes that is original and fresh. That is what has made "Thinking of You" a dj favorite. That's how it got into our top 20, and I think it will stay there for a while. Keep the good jazz coming”.
Malvin Massey, Jr. WUMR U92 FM College of Communication and Fine Arts Memphis, TNS mooth Jazz Is Alive and Well in 2012!! by sdcolor.
I thoroughly enjoyed Mike's "From the Heart" in 2008, but WOW! This one truly moves! He's easily on par with smooth jazz greats, like David Benoit, Brian Culbertson, Jeff Lorber and Gregg Karukas. This has a nice blend of smooth ballads and moving tunes! Great compositions. Great musical ensemble. Thanks Mike! I'll be sure to spread the news about this one. This is real smooth jazz by Stanley Davis.
Mikelevinemusic.com