ABOUT RENU JAY

First-generation American and multi-woodwind instrumentalist Renuka Jayasinghe is making waves in the world of live music with her powerhouse performances, undeniable stage presence, and inspiring story of perseverance. A proud Sri Lankan-American artist, Jayasinghe’s musical journey began at age nine with the alto saxophone and has since evolved into a multifaceted career rooted in jazz, funk, and soul.

Jayasinghe originally enrolled at the University of Texas at Austin to study engineering and physics, but after two years, she boldly pivoted to pursue her true passion—music. She earned a spot in UT’s prestigious Butler School of Music, where she sharpened her skills performing in the Jazz Ensemble, Jazz Orchestra, and Alternative Improvisation Music Ensemble. Her time in Austin’s collegiate music community laid the foundation for a promising performance career.

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After leaving UT to fully immerse herself in Austin’s vibrant music scene, Jayasinghe quickly became a sought-after saxophonist, performing with world-class bands such as Wild Child, Sir Woman, Tomar and the FCs, and Big Wy’s Brass Band. Her talents have graced the stages of major festivals including Austin City Limits, SXSW (Official), Float Fest, Blues on the Green, Trans-Pecos Festival of Music + Love, and Old Settler’s Music Festival.

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Renu has received the honor of “Best Horns” as the saxophonist of Big Wy's Brass Band at the Austin Music Awards in 2020, 2023, and 2025, cementing her reputation as one of the city’s top horn players. From celebrity weddings to Q2 stadium openings, Jayasinghe continues to elevate every performance with passion and soul. She frequently performs at Austin staples like the Continental Club, C-Boy’s Rhythm & Blues, Stubb’s BBQ, The Far Out Lounge, and Mohawk Austin.

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At age 22, Jayasinghe was diagnosed with Crohn’s disease, an autoimmune condition that might have slowed others down. Instead, she’s turned it into a source of strength and advocacy. Through her music and public presence, she aims to raise awareness about living fully with chronic illness, and to inspire others to pursue their dreams regardless of adversity.

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Jayasinghe now fronts her own acid jazz/funk/R&B project RENU, performing both original works and reimagined songs from artists like D’Angelo, Erykah Badu, and Hiatus Kaiyote. Check out the recently released self-titled debut album "RENU" by RENU, on streaming everywhere but Spotify.

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In addition to her music, she is a thriving entrepreneur—running Toadzilla Thrift Inventory, a resale clothing shop curating unique vintage fashion for creatives, and handling marketing for MacSax Mouthpieces, a respected name in the woodwind industry.

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Renuka Jayasinghe is not just a musician—she’s a visionary, a role model, and a bold voice in Austin’s ever-evolving musical landscape.