Oscar Levant was born on December 27, 1906, in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, to Orthodox Jewish parents who had emigrated from Russia. He began his musical education early, taking piano lessons from his older brother Benjamin and later studying under Martin Miessler. Levant was performing public recitals by the age of eight. In 1922, he moved to New York City to further his music education with Zygmunt Stojowski.

Levant's career took a significant turn when he moved to Hollywood in 1928, where he became friends with George Gershwin and composed music for over twenty films between 1929 and 1948. He was also a successful songwriter, with "Blame It on My Youth" (1934) being one of his most enduring hits. Levant was known for his performances of Gershwin's music and was considered the greatest interpreter of Gershwin's piano works of his generation.

In addition to his musical talents, Levant was a prominent figure in entertainment as a radio game show panelist, television talk show host, comedian, and actor. He appeared in films such as "Rhapsody in Blue" (1945), where he played himself, "The Barkleys of Broadway" (1949), "An American in Paris" (1951), and "The Band Wagon" (1953). His quick wit and depth of musical knowledge made him a popular panelist on the radio quiz show "Information Please."

Levant was married twice, first to Barbara Woodell and later to June Gale, with whom he had three children. He passed away on August 14, 1972, in Beverly Hills, California, at the age of 65. His contributions to music and entertainment were recognized with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 1960 for his piano recordings. Levant's life and career were later portrayed by Sean Hayes in the Broadway play "Good Night, Oscar."