Sumudu is a singer-songwriter from the UK. Born in Barnsley and now living in London, her Sri Lankan parents noticed she was a natural performer and composer from a young age. She soon learned to play many instruments including the piano, violin, guitar, flute and accordion.
At fifteen she made her television debut singing one of her own songs for the BBC.
Whilst studying medicine at Sheffield University she went on to become the singer for the UK’s National Youth Jazz Orchestra and toured the country; during which time she earned her reputation as a formidable singer.
Sumudu was chosen to sing live in front of the Queen and millions of TV viewers worldwide for the Millennium countdown celebrations at the Dome in London. She sang the classic song ‘Alfie’ for Burt Bacharach & Hal David at a special Tribute Concert held at London’s Royal Albert Hall where she shared the bill with Dionne Warwick, Elvis Costello and Sir Bob Geldof.
She has performed at London’s top music venues including the Royal Albert Hall, the London Palladium, the Queen Elizabeth Hall and Ronnie Scott’s Jazz Club as well as many high-profile events including BBC Proms in Hyde Park, Royal Ascot, Later with Jools Holland and The Inspirational Women Awards.
Sumudu’s self-written debut album ‘Waiting For You’ was produced by Grammy Award-winning producer Kipper (Sting/James Taylor) and BBC Radio compared her to legendary artists Eva Cassidy, Karen Carpenter and Alison Krauss.
Her latest album ‘For All We Know‘ sees her return to jazz singing standards in tribute to some of her favourite songwriters (from Harold Arlen to Lennon & McCartney) who have inspired her along the way.
She has opened for Mica Paris, Curtis Stigers, Ron Sexsmith and Mark King on UK tour and has been a featured vocalist on many albums including for Jason Rebello, Chris Holland and Mike Lindup.
Other artists she has performed and recorded with as a backing singer include Sir Van Morrison, Sir Rod Stewart, John Newman, Shaun Escoffery, The Lee Thompson Ska Orchestra, Jamie Cullum, Peabo Bryson and Chris Difford (Squeeze).
Also an in demand session singer Sumudu regularly records at Abbey Road and Air Studios and appears on numerous film and TV soundtracks.
Sumudu is frequently on world tour as backing vocalist, guitarist, keyboard player and percussionist for Sir Van Morrison.