Jacob René grabs attention. Whether it’s with his love of glitter, or the way he tickles the keys while
belting out a pop tune, he doesn’t disappoint. At 27 years old, the “Texas Pop” star promises creative
innovation and expression, with a classic flair.
René’s love for the classics really shines in his pop-rock banger, “Memories.” Autobiographical by
nature, you can hear him channeling his inner “Axl Rose” as he tells his story of life in Odessa, TX, and his
newly-found confidence as a performer in the “Live Music Capitol” of Austin, TX. He describes his sound
as not being the “manufactured” dance-driven sound that’s typically on Top 40 radio, and a little more
“gritty,” which he has dubbed, “Texas Pop.” “It’s Austin’s blues-rock sound through a pop lens. It’s the
marriage of the Red River District, and the Warehouse District,” he describes. It’s his lyrical honesty, and
love for Pop music that sets him apart from his indie-rock peers in Austin, who he says, “welcomed him
with open arms.”
His life has been no “bed of roses,” and his upcoming E.P., “Watch Me,” tells some of those tales. From
drug abuse, to coming out in West Texas, he hopes to inspire those who have a dream to go after it with
reckless abandon. “There’s something in it for everyone,” he says. “I just wanted to create great Pop
songs that were vulnerable, and honest. It’s my first E.P. so that was very important to me.”
Being Latino, and part of the LGBTQ community in Texas is something he is very proud of. His southern
twang, and Tex-Mex heritage speaks to many in the “Lone Star State,” and beyond. While always proud
of where he came from, he hopes to spread a message of love, and inspire bravery to all who hear his
music. “Everyone’s invited to this party,” he says. “As long as you bring some love to share!”
Growing up in Odessa, he felt his only way out was through education. He started his musical training at
3 years old, and went well on into his college years until he decided to drop out to focus on pop-
stardom. While in college he was a very active member of GRAMMY U, a music industry development
entity led by The Recording Academy, which gave him endless networking opportunities, and
connections to the music industry. It was then that he decided to quit school, and move to Austin.
After a few failed attempts at getting booked for major events and festivals, Jacob found his audience
through the Austin open-mic circuit. Playing at venues like Gourdough’s Public House, and Little
Woo performing, the singer-songwriter is staying busy wrapping up his upcoming E.P., “Watch
Me,” due this fall, and creating content for future projects. From co-writing to co-producing, he makes
sure to be involved with all creative aspects of his music. His plan is to create a legacy he can be proud
of, and to bring everyone along for the ride. “I don’t care how many heads are involved. As long as my
heart is navigating, I’m good,” he says. “I went through a lot of shit to tell my story, and I’m gonna tell
it.”
There’s nothing stopping this young star. Keeping his eye on the prize, his focus and optimism are sure
to take him very far. For more Jacob René, click on the SoundCloud link to check out his new single,
“Memories.” Stay up to date at http://www.jacobrene.com