WATERMELON JAZZ
The story behind the album

Musicians & Singers

Album Credits

Intro

This album will find a happy place in the home of parents, grandparents, musicians, educators and people everywhere who want to enjoy great music with young children.

The first COVID 19 lockdown brought some unexpected benefits for Ukubebe Music director Jo Steel — lots of time outside of teaching to work on new music. With the purpose of supporting and uplifting families through the COVID era, this collection was lovingly written, arranged and performed to inspire children with the great sounds of jazz.

Collaborators

Watermelon Jazz is a collection of original songs for young children, written by Ukubebe Music founder and educator Jo Steel, and arranged by Misha Mullov-Abbado.

Ukubebe Music is a Sydney based early childhood music and movement program, where families can enjoy quality-learning experiences, including Jo’s original music.

Misha Mullov-Abbado, an award-winning UK jazz double bassist, composer and bandleader, works in London’s thriving jazz scene, and his music features regularly on BBC Radio 3.

Brief Description: Album + Singles

Jazz music for children — authentic, vibrant, playful and uplifting — that will inspire anyone listening to dance around the room.

Performed to the highest standard by professional musicians, these quality songs challenge the notion that children’s music should be over-simplified, repetitive and of a limited palette. Instead, this album offers a rich musical experience introducing beautiful jazz sounds the whole family can enjoy.

The songs are about children, for children, including big band, soul-jazz and traditional jazz. There are also some beautifully sung action songs and lullabies, and a fun country song. Watermelon Jazz includes singles Baby-Boo, Toddler, and It’s Easy to be Kind.

• 

  Watermelon Jazz

  

  Watermelon Jazz

  A big band song that makes everyone happy! 

  Parents, grandparents, educators and musicians, pick up your little ones for some singing and dancing.

  A great way to introduce children to the amazing sounds of jazz.

  You’ll want to sing and dance around the room, and eat watermelon.

  Lyrics

  Yummy watermelon, watermelon, juicy and sweet
  Watermelon I just love to eat
  Watermelon, watermelon, yum-yum-yum!
  Watermelon, watermelon in my tum.
  Watermelon
  1, 2, 3, 4 roll out the door

  Yummy strawberry, strawberry, juicy and sweet
  Strawberry I just love to eat
  Strawberry, strawberry, yum-yum-yum!
  Strawberry, strawberry in my tum.
  Strawberry
  1, 2, 3, 4 roll out the door

  Yummy pineapple, pineapple, juicy and sweet
  Pineapple I just love to eat
  Pineapple, pineapple yum-yum-yum!
  Pineapple, pineapple in my tum
  Pineapple
  1, 2, 3, 4 roll out the door.

  Credits

  Music and Lyrics by Joanne Steel
  Arrangement: Misha Mullov-Abbado
  Vocals: Cara Frank
  Piano: Liam Dunachie
  Saxophones: Tom Smith
  Trumpets: James Davison
  Trombones: Yusuf Narçin
  Double Bass: Misha Mullov-Abbado
  Drums: Scott Chapman

  Co-produced by Jo Steel and Misha Mullov-Abbado
  Edited and Mixed by Misha Mullov-Abbado
  All instruments recorded & engineered by Misha Mullov-Abbado, London
  Vocals recorded by Josh Wermut at XO Studios, Sydney
  Mastered by Donal Whelan at Hafod Mastering, Wales

  Album artwork by Katherine Hall at Design & Opinion

  The story behind the song

  Horns, saxophone, piano and a vibrant vocal, join together to offer children and their families an authentic experience of big band music, in a song written just for them.

  However this big band song had a simpler start in life. A novelty ukulele, shaped like a watermelon was used in the Ukubebe Music early childhood classes, much to the delight of the children and adults alike.

  Ukubebe teacher Cara Frank had been holidaying in Hawaii where she saw a watermelon coloured ukulele, and brought it home to Sydney for classes.

  Jo Steel Ukubebe Director wrote a new song Yummy Watermelon for the summer program classes, and the children used fruit shaped shakers to join in with singing and playing the song. They chose their favourite fruit-shaped-shaker to sing about, in each new verse. The favourite fruits were definitely watermelon, strawberry and pineapple, so they stuck.

  When Jo approached Misha Mullov-Abbado to collaborate on a Jazz album for children, they immediately saw their shared vision, that children should have quality music, well written, arranged and performed by live musicians: music that inspires children to sing, dance and to learn an instrument. Jo had the idea that Yummy Watermelon would work well as a big band number. She started working on a new version of the song and the result is Misha’s big band arrangement called Watermelon Jazz.

  Performed live by musicians from various bands Misha plays in, he creates a vibrant swing big band arrangement full of life and fun. Reminiscent of the big band era of the 1930-40’s, Watermelon Jazz is easy listening, with a great solo introduction for horns, a call and response section, and memorable lyrics you’ll be singing long after listening.

  Being a joy-bubble, Cara’s enthusiasm and love of life can be heard in her clear and bright vocal, especially at the end with a release of a joyful scream.

  Music and lyrics by Joanne Steel
  Arrangement by Misha Mullov-Abbado

• 

  Baby-Boo

  

  Baby-Boo

  Funky baby!

  So much fun bouncing Baby, singing and dancing together

  Babies love to sing this up-beat song!

  Great musicians playing some hot jazz

  Lyrics

  Ba, ba, ba-ba baby
  Ba-ba baby-boo
  Ba, ba, ba-ba baby
  Baby I love you.
  Ba, ba baby, baby, baby boo
  Ba, ba baby, baby I love you!

  Daddy
  Daddy, Daddy-doo
  Daddy
  Daddy I love you
  Daddy
  Daddy, Daddy-doo
  Daddy
  Daddy I love you

  Mama, Mama Mummy
  Mama, Mummy-moo
  Mama, Mama Mummy
  Mummy I love you
  Mum, Mum
  Mama Mummy moon
  Mum, Mum, Mummy I Love You!

  Credits

  Music and Lyrics by Joanne Steel
  Arrangement: Misha Mullov-Abbado
  Vocals: Jo Steel
  Rhodes: Liam Dunachie
  Electric Guitar: Nick Goodwin
  Saxophones: Tom Smith
  Trumpets: James Davison
  Trombones: Yusuf Narçin
  Bass Guitar: Misha Mullov-Abbado
  Drums: Scott Chapman

  Co-produced by Jo Steel and Misha Mullov-Abbado
  Edited and Mixed by Misha Mullov-Abbado
  Mastered by Donal Whelan at Hafod Mastering, Wales
  Vocals recorded by Josh Wermut at XO Studios, Sydney
  All instruments recorded & engineered by Misha Mullov-Abbado, London

  Album artwork by Katherine Hall at Design & Opinion

  The story behind the song

  Baby-Boo is the perfect song for dancing, singing and bouncing with your little one!

  Babies love to bop, move and bounce. They just can’t keep still, and love to improvise with their favourite words, babbling and singing with joy.

  Jo Steel wrote this song for parents to bounce baby in their laps and sing the sounds that Baby makes, inspired by emerging language from the babies in Ukubebe Baby music classes.

  Sassy brass, smooth guitar and bass make this song pop. 

  Sing the song in parts with friends and family, with each verse complimenting the others! Ba-bah-baby, Dad-da-daddy and Mum-mum-mummy.

  Music and Lyrics by Joanne Steel Arrangement by Misha Mullov-Abbado

  
  

  
  

  
  

  
  

  
  

• 

  ABC What You Mean To Me

  

  ABC What You Mean To Me

  A fun alphabet song, with fantastic words of affirmation for children.

  Sophisticated and stylish, presenting the smooth sounds of jazz.

  Jo Steel’s warm and gentle vocal expressing with tenderness and respect, how she feels about young children.

  Lyrics

  A you’re affectionate
  B you are brave
  C you’re courageous and clever
  D you’re determined, and that’s OK
  E you’re engaging in so many ways

  That’s what I think about you
  That’s what I think about you

  F fair and friendly, that’s what I know
  G is for generous and giving
  It’s also for gracious and that’s all true
  H you are honest, and helpful
  That’s you!

  That’s what I think about you
  That’s what I think about you

  I is for your great imagination
  J you’re joyful
  And kind
  Loving and so loveable
  You’re really one of a kind

  You’re magically motivated
  Naturally bright
  Optimistic
  You persevere and yes, you’re polite
  You’re quirky, quick-witted
  Respectful and
  Strong
  You’re thoughtful to others
  The list just goes on

  Unique and
  ‘Venturous
  Willing and warm
  X is for xenial, that’s friendly
  Y is because you are you!
  There’s a zest in your heart
  And this is just the start

  That’s what I think
  That’s what I think
  That’s what I think
  About you

  Credits

  Music and Lyrics by Joanne Steel
  Arrangement: Misha Mullov-Abbado
  Vocals: Jo Steel
  Piano: Liam Dunachie
  Saxophone: Tom Smith
  Trumpet: James Davison
  Trombone: Yusuf Narçin
  Double Bass: Misha Mullov-Abbado
  Drums: Scott Chapman

  Co-produced by Jo Steel and Misha Mullov-Abbado
  Edited and Mixed by Misha Mullov-Abbado
  Mastered by Donal Whelan at Hafod Mastering, Wales
  Vocals recorded by Josh Wermut at XO Studios, Sydney
  All instruments recorded & engineered by Misha Mullov-Abbado, London

  Album artwork by Katherine Hall at Design & Opinion

  The story behind the song

  Children believe what we say about them. Experts agree that affirmations boost confidence in young children and help develop a positive self-image.

  Words of affirmation are also a great way to help children cope when they're feeling down, upset, scared, or when things seem overwhelming.

  ABC What You Mean To Me includes over 26 words that celebrate how strong and brave children are, with their great imagination and zest!  

   In this stylish jazz arrangement featuring great horns, piano, bass and drums, Jo Steel sings her way through the alphabet with beautiful affirmations parents can sing for their children.

  Music and Lyrics by Joanne Steel Arrangement by Misha Mullov-Abbado

• 

  Boxes

  

  Boxes

  Build up a tower of boxes and then…knock them down!

  A happy song about repurposing, recycling and creating musical play at home.

  A song written for children staying at home, during Sydney’s 2020 COVID-19 lockdown.

  Lyrics

  Look at all the things we can do
  With something that’s old
  We make it new
  Let’s play together
  Me and you
  We’ll take some cardboard boxes
  And make something new
  We’ll take some cardboard boxes
  And make something new

  Let’s make a tower of boxes!

  Look at all the things we can do
  With something that’s old
  We make it new
  Let’s play together
  Me and you
  We’ll take some cardboard boxes
  And make something new
  We’ll take some cardboard boxes
  And make something new

  Credits

  Music and Lyrics by Joanne Steel
  Arrangement: Misha Mullov-Abbado
  Vocals: Cara Frank
  Piano: Liam Dunachie
  Violin: Bridget O’Donnell
  Acoustic Guitar: Nick Goodwin
  Double Bass: Misha Mullov-Abbado
  Drums & Percussion: Scott Chapman

  Co-produced by Jo Steel and Misha Mullov-Abbado
  Edited and Mixed by Misha Mullov-Abbado
  Mastered by Donal Whelan at Hafod Mastering, Wales
  Vocals recorded by Josh Wermut at XO Studios, Sydney
  All instruments recorded & engineered by Misha Mullov-Abbado, London

  Album artwork by Katherine Hall at Design & Opinion

  The story behind the song

  Repurposing everyday items became a feature of Ukubebe early childhood music classes when face-to-face classes moved online during Sydney’s COVID-19 lockdown in 2020. 

  Teaching classes online to children at home who were unable to access the Ukubebe percussion instruments, Jo Steel inspired her students to be creative and imaginative, making music with everyday items found around the house. 

  Children have always experimented with objects around them to create sound and explore musical ideas. Tapping, banging and playing, hiding and surprising are all part of being a small child. The delight of stacking up and knocking down boxes should never be underrated!

  The 5-note pattern rising and falling inspires the idea of building boxes in a tower, counting them ‘up and then down’. 

  Children love the hands-on experience of playing percussion instruments and  exploring sound. Boxes captures the joy of some ‘crash-and-bang’ moments, featuring lots of percussion. The introduction played on snare drum is based on a Latin groove, exciting and playful, with added claves, shakers, chákaras, triangle and chimes.  

  Music and Lyrics by Joanne Steel
  Arrangement by Misha Mullov-Abbado

• 

  Toddler

  

  Toddler

  High energy, just like a toddler!                                                      

  Running, jumping, stomping and spinning around, until it’s all over and you drop to the ground.                                  

  Great blues band with crazy tenor sax solos

  Lyrics

  I’m gonna run, run, run, run, run
  I’m gonna run and run all day
  I’m gonna run and play and have some fun
  Run, run, run, and play

  I’m gonna play, play

  I’m gonna stomp and shake
  and jump and dance
  And kick and spin around
  I’m gonna hop and wriggle and giggle and move
  And then fall to the ground

  I’m gonna play, play, play

  I’m a busy Lizzie: I’m a busy Ben
  A jolly Ollie, that’s who I am
  A chirpy Charlie, I got things to do
  I’ve got places to be
  I’ve got so much to see
  That’s Me

  I’m gonna walk and waddle and slow right down
  I’m gonna sit myself down, on the ground
  I’m gonna stop, and look all around
  I don’t want to run, ‘cause I’m all done

  Credits

  Music and Lyrics by Joanne Steel
  Arrangement: Misha Mullov-Abbado
  Vocals: Jo Steel
  Piano & Organ: Liam Dunachie
  Electric Guitar: Nick Goodwin
  Tenor Saxophone: Tom Smith
  Bass Guitar: Misha Mullov-Abbado
  Drums: Scott Chapman

  Co-produced by Jo Steel and Misha Mullov-Abbado
  Edited and Mixed by Misha Mullov-Abbado
  Mastered by Donal Whelan at Hafod Mastering, Wales
  Vocals recorded by Josh Wermut at XO Studios, Sydney
  All instruments recorded & engineered by Misha Mullov-Abbado, London

  Album artwork by Katherine Hall at Design & Opinion

  The story behind the song

  Run, play, jump, dance, spin-around and wriggle: all these actions feature in Toddler! A fun and fast-paced song with a crazy saxophone solo, reflecting the joy toddlers feel with their new-found freedom and independence. They love to run, run, run, until they tire, wind down and finally stop.

  Jo Steel wrote this song as a celebration of the amazing exuberance of young children, just like her three little grandsons, who are high-energy boys! 

  At the time of writing, grandsons Ben, aged 4, and Charlie, aged 2, were the inspiration for this song; they loved to run all day and play, play, play.  

  Their names were recorded in the final verse, then a new little brother was born! So back to the studio for Jo, who re-recorded the final verse to include Ollie, too.

  Music and Lyrics by Joanne Steel
  Arrangement by Misha Mullov-Abbado

• 

  It's Easy to be Kind

  

  It's Easy to be Kind

  A fun, light-hearted song that teaches children about being kind.

  Great improvised jazz trumpet, trombone, clarinet and piano.

  Jo Steel’s vocal is light and fun, animated with touches of drama.

  Lyrics

  It’s easy to be kind, if I make up my mind
  To think about somebody else
  It’s easy to be kind if I make up my mind
  To think about someone else

  It’s not the worst thing that could happen
  If I don't go first
  Or if I have to wait for my turn, and go next
  I’ll be the best friend, you can expect

  It’s easy to be kind if I make up my mind
  (Being kind is easy)
  To think about somebody else
  (Being kind is cool)
  It’s easy to be kind, if I make up my mind
  (Being kind is what people remember)
  To think about somebody else
  (About all the kids at school)

  I don't need the biggest piece of cake
  I can share it with you
  I don't want to make the same ol’ mistake
  And only think about what I can take

  Because I know that if I’m kind to others
  My friends or my brother, my sister
  or my mother
  I feel even better about myself
  That's the way to feel better

  Credits

  Music and lyrics by Jo Steel
  Arrangement: Misha Mullov-Abbado
  Vocals: Jo Steel
  Piano: Liam Dunachie
  Acoustic Guitar: Nick Goodwin
  Clarinet: Anthony Friend
  Trumpet: James Davison
  Trombone: Yusuf Narçin
  Double Bass: Misha Mullov-Abbado
  Drums: Scott Chapman

  Co-produced by Jo Steel and Misha Mullov-Abbado
  Edited and mixed by Misha Mullov-Abbado
  Mastered by Donal Whelan at Hafod Mastering, Wales
  Vocals recorded by Josh Wermut at XO Studios, Sydney
  All instruments recorded & engineered by Misha Mullov-Abbado, London.

  Album artwork by Katherine Hall at Design & Opinion

  The story behind the song

  The world can always do with more kindness!

  It’s Easy To Be Kind is a light-hearted expression of something very important: how we treat other people.

  We all want the best for our children. We hope they will be happy and successful, but we also want them to become good people. Children have healthier, more fulfilling relationships when they are socially aware and can empathise with others.

  It’s Easy To Be Kind has a great message: everyone benefits when we are kind, and the effects of kindness help us grow into happy and contented adults.

  Toy Story meets Mary Poppins: this song has a joyful, easy-listening vibe, written with feel-good grooves, including a trumpet solo, trombone, guitar and clarinet.

  Music and Lyrics by Joanne Steel
  Arrangement by Misha Mullov-Abbado

• 

  Dizzy Wizzy

  

  Dizzy Wizzy

  An action song that calms and soothes.

  Smooth jazz rhythms and grooves, with great flugelhorn, saxophone, piano and cello.

  Superb vocal, smooth and polished, from singer Edward De Simone.

  Lyrics

  Round and around and around and around I go
  Like a wheel that is turning around, see me go
  Twisting and twirling and whizzing and whirling along
  Spinning around getting dizzy, so I slow down

  Stretch up high, reach down low
  Stretch up high, reach down low

  Round and around and around and around, I go
  Like a wheel that is turning around, see me go
  Twisting and twirling and whizzing and whirling along
  Spinning around getting dizzy, so I slow down

  Side to side, I stretch out wide
  Side to side, see me sway
  Side to side, I stretch out wide
  Side to side, this way

  Round and around and around and around I go
  Like a wheel that is turning around, see me go
  Twisting and twirling and whizzing and whirling along

  Spinning around I am spinning around
  Spinning around getting dizzy
  Spinning around and then I slow down

  Credits

  Music and lyrics by Jo Steel
  Arrangement: Misha Mullov-Abbado
  Vocal: Edward De Simone
  Fender Rhodes & Piano: Liam Dunachie
  Cello: Deni Teo
  Saxophone: Tom Smith
  Flugelhorn: James Davison
  Electric Bass: Misha Mullov-Abbado
  Drums: Scott Chapman

  Co-produced by Jo Steel and Misha Mullov-Abbado
  Edited and mixed by Misha Mullov-Abbado
  Mastered by Donal Whelan at Hafod Mastering, Wales
  Vocals recorded by Josh Wermut at XO Studios, Sydney
  All instruments recorded & engineered by Misha Mullov-Abbado, London

  Album artwork by Katherine Hall at Design & Opinion

  The story behind the song

  Kids love to move and dance! Give children a scarf and watch them go!

  Dizzy Wizzy is a calming action song that provides a perfect backdrop for some creative dance and movement.

  Jo Steel has created a chilled vibe with this song, ideal for children to explore the space all around them: round and around, up high and down low, and then side-to side.

  The light bossa nova rhythm feels relaxing and smooth from the solo flugelhorn introduction, then the textures and layers build, with saxophone and cello overlapping each other. The delightful piano solo follows the path of a small child spinning around, getting a little dizzy…

  Finally, everything slows down to a moment of calm and relaxation.

  Music and Lyrics by Joanne Steel
  Arrangement by Misha Mullov-Abbado

• 

  Goodnight Teddy

  

  Goodnight Teddy

  Bluesy, catchy and fun!

  How long does it take to get a toddler to bed?

  A song for children’s bedtime routine, when you have to get all your toys ready for bed.

  Very cool bass, horns and guitar.

  Jo Steel’s sublime vocals are bluesy and relaxing.

  Lyrics

  At the end of the day, when it turns into night
  And the moon is shining and the stars are bright
  Then it’s time to say goodnight
  To my Teddy: goodnight Teddy

  At the end of the day, when it turns into night
  And the moon is shining, and the stars are bright
  Then it’s time to say goodnight
  To my Teddy: goodnight Teddy
  And my Bunny: hop over here Bunny

  At the end of the day, when it turns into night
  And the moon is shining and the stars are bright
  Then it’s time to say goodnight
  To my Teddy: goodnight Teddy
  And my Bunny: hop over here Bunny
  And my Moo-Moo: finished playing yet Moo-Moo?

  At the end of the day, when it turns into night
  And the moon is shining, and the stars are bright
  Then it’s time to say goodnight
  To my Teddy: goodnight Teddy
  And my Bunny: hop over here now Bunny
  And my Moo-Moo: you playing again Moo-Moo?
  And my Bow-Wow-Dog: are you hiding Bow-Wow?

  At the end of the day, when it turns into night
  And the moon is shining, and the stars are bright
  Then it’s time to say goodnight
  To my Teddy: goodnight Teddy
  And my Bunny: hop over here now little Bunny
  And my Moo-Moo:
  You finished playing yet Moo-Moo?
  And my Bow-Wow-Dog:
  Are you hiding again Bow-Wow?
  And my Nellie-Bellie-Ellie: shh quiet time

  At the end of the day when it turns into night
  And the moon is shining and the stars are bright
  Then it’s time to say goodnight
  To my Teddy: goodnight Teddy
  And my Bunny: sleepy little Bunny
  To my Moo-Moo: you tired now Moo-Moo?
  And my Bow-Wow-Dog: nighty-night
  And my Nellie-Bellie-Ellie, shh…

  Credits

  Music and lyrics by Jo Steel
  Arrangement : Misha Mullov-Abbado
  Vocal & Ukulele: Jo Steel
  Fender Rhodes & Piano: Liam Dunachie
  Electric Guitar: Nick Goodwin
  Trumpet: James Davison
  Electric Bass: Misha Mullov-Abbado
  Drums: Scott Chapman

  Co-produced by Jo Steel and Misha Mullov-Abbado
  Edited and mixed by Misha Mullov-Abbado
  Mastered by Donal Whelan at Hafod Mastering, Wales
  Vocals recorded by Josh Wermut at XO Studios, Sydney
  All instruments recorded & engineered by Misha Mullov-Abbado, London

  Album artwork by Katherine Hall at Design & Opinion

  The story behind the song

  A super fun song to signal the bedtime routine.

  ‘The moon is shining and the starts are bright…it’s time to say goodnight…’

  Teddy, Bunny, Moo-Moo, Bow-Wow-Dog, and Nellie-Belly-Ellie — are all the toys finally ready for bed now? Time to go to sleep toys (and children).

  Children love a catchy song they can sing to engage with their toys. For parents, this is a tune they will also enjoy, so the bedtime routine will be fun and enjoyable for everyone.

  Longer than most children’s songs, Goodnight Teddy helps set the scene and create a ritual for a peaceful goodnight. Creating the perfect backdrop for predictability and routine, this song helps children to wind down, relax and enjoy bedtime.

  Music and Lyrics by Joanne Steel Arrangement by Misha Mullov-Abbado

• 

  My Little Baby

  

  My Little Baby

  Sweet, gentle and pure, a beautiful lullaby for Baby.

  Soothing melody and harmonies performed on violin, cello, guitar and piano.

  Stunning vocal by acclaimed UK-based jazz singer, Alice Zawadzki.

  Lyrics

  My little baby
  Peek-a-boo
  My Little baby
  I love you
  Dear little baby
  Small and sweet
  Little fingers, little toes
  And tiny feet

  You make my heart sing
  For you, I’d do anything
  Precious and beautiful
  You’re everything
  Little baby, tiny baby
  What love you bring

  My little baby
  Peek-a-boo
  My Little baby
  I love you

  Credits

  Music and lyrics by Jo Steel
  Arrangement: Misha Mullov-Abbado

  Vocal: Alice Zawadzki
  Piano: Liam Dunachie
  Nylon Acoustic Guitar: Nick Goodwin
  Violin: Bridget O’Donnell
  Cello: Deni Teo
  Double Bass: Misha Mullov-Abbado

  Co-produced by Jo Steel and Misha Mullov-Abbado
  Edited and mixed by Misha Mullov-Abbado
  Mastered by Donal Whelan at Hafod Mastering, Wales
  Vocals recorded by Josh Wermut at XO Studios, Sydney
  All instruments recorded & engineered by Misha Mullov-Abbado, London

  Album artwork by Katherine Hall at Design & Opinion

  The story behind the song

  Written by Jo Steel after a friend suffered a tragic loss, this song expresses the depth of love and pure joy to be found in the sweetness of a peek-a-boo game or the tickle of baby’s tiny fingers and toes.

  Enjoy the universal tradition of a lullaby with a gentle waltz-like feel, rocking and swaying baby in your arms, humming and singing as baby falls asleep.

  Jo Steel asked her daughter, Bridget O’Donnell, to play the violin part, as a reminder of the precious beginnings and the many beautiful musical moments they shared together when Bridget was a small child playing violin.

  Alice Zawazdki’s exceptional vocal elevates this simple lullaby into a song of exquisite beauty, filled with heart-warming emotion.

  Music and Lyrics by Joanne Steel Arrangement by Misha Mullov-Abbado

• 

  Places You’ll Go

  

  Places You’ll Go

  Full of imagination and cool sound effects, this song explores the freedom and joy of a child going places.

  Calm and gentle, there’s walking, riding a bike and driving in the car.

  The walking bass, playful violin, and smooth piano are full of warmth.

  Jo Steel’s vocal has a character that gives a nod to the exceptional Julie Andrews.

  Lyrics

  Oh the places you’ll go
  when you’re walking,
  You can walk fast or slow
  and keep talking
  You can walk to the park,
  to the shop down the street
  You can walk with your dog, and there’s people you meet
  Oh the places you’ll go
  when you’re walking,
  Oh the places you’ll go
  when you walk.
  Oh the places you’ll go
  when you’re riding your bike
  Oh the places you’ll go
  when you’re riding
  You can ride all the way
  to your friend’s house to play
  You can ride in the morning and late in the day
  Oh the places you’ll go
  when you’re riding your bike
  Oh the places you go
  when you ride
  Oh the places you’ll go
  when you’re driving
  Oh the places you’ll go
  in your car
  You can visit places
  that seem very far
  But you get there so fast,
  if you go in the car
  You can drive to the beach and take your guitar
  Oh the places you’ll go
  in your car

  Credits

  Music and lyrics by Jo Steel
  Vocal: Jo Steel
  Arrangement: Misha Mullov-Abbado
  Piano: Liam Dunachie
  Violin: Bridget O’Donnell
  Double Bass: Misha Mullov-Abbado
  Drums: Scott Chapman

  Co-produced by Jo Steel and Misha Mullov-Abbado
  Edited and mixed by Misha Mullov-Abbado
  Mastered by Donal Whelan at Hafod Mastering, Wales
  Vocals recorded by Josh Wermut at XO Studios, Sydney
  All instruments recorded & engineered by Misha Mullov-Abbado, London.

  Album artwork by Katherine Hall at Design & Opinion

  The story behind the song

  Every adult remembers riding a bike as a child with the wind in your hair…

  What a freedom it was to go places: the shops, the park, anywhere you wanted!

  Children express themselves through movement and they love to explore their world. Their independence contributes to the development of self-esteem, identity and wellbeing.

  With the real-life sounds of footsteps, a bicycle, and a car, this song captures some of life’s simplest joys found in travel.

  Designed with a slow tempo, this song invites action and participation, yet doesn't leave children in a heightened state of stimulation, rather peaceful and relaxed.

  The walking bass stands out and is especially soothing and comforting.

  Music and Lyrics by Joanne Steel Arrangement by Misha Mullov-Abbado

• 

  Sing Together

  

  Sing Together

  A country sing-a-long for everyone!

  A song children love to sing, clap and tap.

  Country sounds of lively violin, banjo and guitar.

  Lyrics

  Here’s a song that we can sing, lah lah, la-lah
  This little song that we can sing lah lah, la-lah
  Sing together, lah lah, la-lah
  Sing together, lah lah, la-lah

  Here’s a song the children sing, lah lah, la-lah
  This little song the children sing, lah lah, la-lah
  Sing together, lah lah, la-lah
  Sing together, lah lah, la-lah

  Here’s a song that we can clap
  This little song that we can clap
  Clap together
  Clap together

  Here’s a song that we can tap
  This little song that we can tap
  Tap together
  Tap together

  Here’s a song that we can sing, lah lah, la-lah
  This little song that we can sing lah lah, la-lah
  Sing together, lah lah, la-lah
  Sing together, lah lah, la-lah

  Credits

  Lyrics by Jo Steel
  Music: traditional folk tune ‘Lil Liza Jane
  Arrangement : Misha Mullov-Abbado
  Vocal: Jo Steel
  Piano: Liam Dunachie
  Acoustic & Electric Guitars: Nick Goodwin
  Banjo: Cosmo Sheldrake
  Violin: Bridget O’Donnell
  Double Bass: Misha Mullov-Abbado
  Drums: Scott Chapman

  Co-produced by Jo Steel and Misha Mullov-Abbado
  Edited and mixed by Misha Mullov-Abbado
  Mastered by Donal Whelan at Hafod Mastering, Wales
  Vocals recorded by Josh Wermut at XO Studios, Sydney
  All instruments recorded & engineered by Misha Mullov-Abbado, London

  Album artwork by Katherine Hall at Design & Opinion

  The story behind the song

  Sing Together is a celebration of making music with friends and family.

  Jo Steel wrote this song for children attending the Ukubebe Early Childhood classes. It was popular with her young students, as they enjoyed improvising new verses with their own lyrics and playing percussion instruments. Even the babies loved singing their own emerging words, ‘here’s a song the babies sing, lah-lah, mama, dada!’

  Sung to the tune of poplar folk song Lil’ Liza Jane, this piece is refreshing and inviting, with the timeless qualities of traditional folk music.

  A perfect choice for a children’s group to perform, Ukubebe class pre-schoolers, Victoria Slocombe (4) and Alice Render (4), are heard singing, along with Jo’s ukulele students and siblings, Tasman Boswell (8) and Saskia Boswell (12).

  Jo’s family members can also be heard in this track: niece Olive Miller (14), Jo’s daughter, Jessica O’Donnell, and daughter Bridget O’Donnell plays violin.

  Lyrics by Joanne Steel
  Arrangement by Misha Mullov-Abbado
  Tune of traditional folk song ‘Lil Liza Jane

• 

  Seasons’ Child

  

  Seasons’ Child

  Haunting, beautiful and moving: a musical story reflecting on the four seasons in the life of a small child.

  Seaside visits in summer, the colours of autumn gumboots & raincoats in winter, wonder in the new life of spring.

  Lush & rich string quartet and piano combine to offer a distinctive arrangement.

  Dual vocals of Edward De Simone, with his velvet-like falsetto, and Jo Steel.

  Lyrics

  Summer child
  Free to play
  Golden sunshine
  Longest day
  Seaside visits
  Toes in sand
  Warm days of summer

  Autumn child
  Gentle breeze
  Cooler mornings
  Sunset bright
  Falling leaves
  Where small feet run
  Colours of autumn

  Winter child
  Warm coat on
  Gumboots, puddles

  Pouring rain
  Shortest day and
  Longest night
  Cold days of winter

  Springtime child
  All a-bloom
  Future hope and promises
  Wonderment
  In all things new
  Beauty in spring time

  Dreams come true
  Day by day
  How you’ve grown
  Another year
  Summer, autumn
  Winter, spring
  My love for you
  Grows deeper

  Credits

  Lyrics by Jo Steel
  Music: tune of Scottish folk song Ca’ the Yowes
  Arrangement: Misha Mullov-Abbado
  Vocal: Edward De Simone & Jo Steel
  Piano: Liam Dunachie
  Violin: Bridget O’Donnell
  Cello Deni Teo
  Double Bass: Misha Mullov-Abbado
  Drums: Scott Chapman

  Co-produced by Jo Steel and Misha Mullov-Abbado
  Edited and mixed by Misha Mullov-Abbado
  Mastered by Donal Whelan at Hafod Mastering, Wales
  Vocals recorded by Josh Wermut at XO Studios, Sydney
  All instruments recorded & engineered by Misha Mullov-Abbado, London.

  Album artwork by Katherine Hall at Design & Opinion

  The story behind the song

  During the 2020 lockdown, musicians everywhere were creating beautiful music and sharing it in lounge rooms worldwide. One such performance by Solem Quartet, of a traditional Scottish folk tune ‘Ca the Yowes’, found its way to Jo Steel’s home. Simple, yet hauntingly beautiful, Jo was drawn to the tune and wanted to bring this piece to an Australian audience.

  Jo took this exquisite melody and and created a new lyrical concept, exploring the four seasons as they touch the life of a small child. For many of us in 2020 the year brought seasons of varying emotion into our lives: fear, despair and loss; relief and repair; joy and optimism, with the hope of new beginnings.

  Seasons’ Child is rich and emotive, offering a moment to pause and reflect on a whole year: each verse has its own personality highlighting the four seasons.

  Creating contrast with key changes, and using dual vocals of Jo Steel and Edward De Simone, with his velvet-like falsetto, Seasons’ Child is deep in musical ideas, storytelling, and childhood experience.

  Jo Steel and Misha Mullov-Abbado decided to draw heavily on the beauty of the string quartet, creating tensions and textures that rise and fall, matching the change of season. A superb touch from the piano speaks of gently falling leaves, and the dark short days of winter.

  The final verse, with a little melancholy, is a moment of reflection for parents to look back on the year, and how much their child has grown. And what a year that was!

  Lyrics by Joanne Steel
  Arrangement by Misha Mullov-Abbado
  Traditional Scottish Folk Tune ‘Ca' the Yowes’

The Australian Bushfire Benefit Concert

Jo Steel and Misha Mullov-Abbado met in London in February 2020, at the Australian Bushfire Benefit Concert, an event co-founded by Jo’s London-based daughter, violinist Bridget O’Donnell.

Bridget had been holidaying in Australia during the devastating Black Summer of 2020, when the fires impacted her family in Batemans Bay, on the NSW South Coast.

Returning to London, Bridget wanted to use her connections to help the bushfire relief effort back home. The Australian Bushfire Benefit Concert was the result of Bridget’s collaboration with fellow Australian musician and ex-pat, Lotte Betts-Dean, and was supported by wonderful Australian musicians in London. The concert program included Misha’s arrangement of I am Australian for orchestra and choir, the stand out feature and concert finale.

COVID-19 Lockdown

Jo returned to Sydney after the benefit concert, just as the first COVID-19 cases were seen in Australia. The impact of Sydney’s first lockdown affect ed many, and acutely impact ed families at home with young children. Trying to stay positive through Australia’s run of drought, bushfires, and now the COVID-19 pandemic was proving a challenge for everyone.

Concerned for the well-being and mental health of the Ukubebe community, Jo saw that music could provide an avenue of connection, relief and joy for families locked down at home.

Beauty has emerged from the darkness and suffering. The shared experience of difficult times has connected individuals and families, and brought the world a little closer. Collectively, musicians and artists have been forced to slow down, pause and reflect. They are finding the gumption to create music from a deep place of introspection and wonder, with a renewed desire to use their craft to make the world a better place.

A new album for children — jazz

Understanding the transformative power of music, Jo wanted to create something for the whole family to enjoy. Jazz is known to reduce negative emotions and evoke happy feelings with its swing, syncopation and creative freedom. The idea that jazz can bring joy during hard times is not new; as Jo reflected on the events of the 1918 Spanish Flu epidemic and the similarities today, she observed, ‘You can’t be sad, and sing and dance at the same time!’

Jo spent the winter school holidays of 2020 writing songs. She emerged from her music room at home with a feeling of excitement, sensing that something amazing had resulted from her lockdown experience, something with an enduring and timeless quality: an album of jazz for young children.

Collaboration

Embracing their shared understanding of the value of quality music for young children, Jo and Misha have enjoyed their collaboration of educational and musical expressions. Jo’s inspiration was her everyday relationship with young children and their families. Misha has brought to life Jo’s songs with beautiful jazz arrangements, created with sensitivity and respect for young listeners, while being true to his creative brilliance, and drawing on his depth of experience and knowledge.

Artists

This album features some very special guest musicians and singers. With piano, saxophone, trumpet, guitar, bass and more, this music has been performed and recorded by professional musicians whose output spans many genres, including swing, traditional jazz, blues, classical, Latin American, funk and soul.

Featuring a number of vocalists, these songs showcase the talent of Ukubebe Music teachers and other professionals who value quality music for young children. Cara Frank, Ukubebe Music teacher, brings joy and energy to the title track, Watermelon Jazz, and the playful song, Boxes. London based singer and jazz musician, Alice Zawadzki, sings from the heart the lullaby, My little Baby. Edward De Simone brings an exceptional velvet aesthetic to the action song, Dizzy Wizzy, and the reflective, dual-vocal, Seasons’ Child.

Jo Steel sings ABC what you mean to me, Baby-Boo, Toddler, It’s Easy to be Kind, Goodnight Teddy, Places You’ll go, Sing Together, and Seasons’ Child. A group song comprising children of mixed ages perform Sing Together.

The musicians are London-based and include Bridget O’Donnell on violin, and the amazing talent of many musicians from various bands Misha Mullov-Abbado plays with.

Final Statement

It is Jo Steel’s dream that her second album Watermelon Jazz, will touch the lives of families with young children: that they will sing and dance together with joy, be uplifted and inspired in a shared love of fabulous music and the great sounds of jazz.