Judith Theresa Colantone (October 28, 1941 – December 31, 2023), known as Jay Clayton, was an American avant-garde jazz vocalist and educator.

[2] After moving to New York, Clayton supported herself with office work by day, but by night, she would explore the blossoming avant-garde jazz scene of the city.

Musicians she has worked with include: Muhal Richard Abrams, Gary Bartz, Jane Ira Bloom, George Cables, Steve Lacy, Julian Priester, Perry Robinson, Mark Whitecage, Steve Reich, John Cage, Kirk Nurock, Paul McCandless, Bennie Wallace, Dave Holland, Stanley Cowell, and Rufus Reid.

The year 1980 saw the release of All Out, her first album as a leader, featuring Jane Ira Bloom, Harvie Swartz, Larry Karush, and Frank Clayton.

[4] Clayton's teaching career lifted off in 1982, when she left New York City to build the vocal jazz program at the Cornish College of the Arts.