Songwriting
Darren is a kirtan artist and singer/songwriter who was born and raised on Long island. His sound has a rich, personal and philosophical background, combining great music with energy and spirituality. In the early years of his career, Darren mostly focused on rock and pop music, fronting three bands. However, things took a turn when he discovered yoga and kirtan in his 30s. His unique approach to integrating his background as a singer/songwriter with mantra music has a soothing, moving, and powerful effect on both himself and those who join him for his music events at music festivals, yoga festivals, yoga studios, coffee houses, and other venues.
Darren’s unique, soulful sound helps people to open their hearts and connect to others in a unified space of love and oneness. Influenced by spiritually-driven musicians like Krishna Das, but also by contemporary artists like Jack Johnson and Jason Mraz, Darren has developed a very distinctive voice as a musician. His continued vision is to offer music that inspires people to raise their vibration and experience more peace and love in their lives.
Career highlights include over 30 original recordings featured as background music in film and television, and being submitted for Grammy consideration in four categories for his original song ‘Whole Lot of Love’ which was featured on MTV’s Real World. Darren currently resides in Santa Barbara. He leads kirtan and performs as a singer/songwriter at music festivals, cafes, and other venues throughout the world. As a proud ambassador of Yoga Gives Back, a portion of all concert proceeds are donated to empowering India's women and children to create sustainable lives.
Recent Performances
Some recent notable singer/songwriter performances include shows at SOhO Restaurant & Music Club, The Whiskey a Go Go, The Mint, The Rainbow Bar & Grill, and The Los Angeles Music Awards.
View a partial list of Song Placements.
View a list of yoga studios and retreat centers where Darren has led kirtan and other workshops.
Eager to present music’s vibrant healing qualities, Darren Marc Levene’s latest single, ‘I’m Free,’ serves as the epitome of liberation. Supplemented by the resounding bass and reggae inspired percussion, ‘I’m Free’ features some distinctly momentous qualities. Attributable to its pulsating drum fills, the track is also blessed with vigorous grooves and a sense of danceability, reaching deep inside the soul and delivering an abounding wave of positivity. An emphatically warming sonic experience, ‘I’m Free’ combines Levene’s musical experience and spiritual freedom, culminating in a buoyant track whose glowing elation would provide the perfect start to anybody’s day.
— Cultural Reset
Known for his stunning music, the artist has recently released his new single titled I’m Free. It is a powerful song with an intriguing intro and sublime vibe. The vocals along with a superb blend of rhythms are quite exquisite. The surreal element of the song lies in its distinct lyricism that is laden with brilliant melodic tones. The scintillating aspect of the single also lies in its spectacular arrangement laden with gripping guitar and alluring beats.
— Jukebox Time
Sample Tracks
Darren has performed as a singer/songwriter at countless coffee houses, bars, and festivals throughout the United States, Asia, and Europe. He performs both as a solo acoustic artist and with the backing of other musicians.