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Sheila Escovedo, known professionally as Sheila E., is a renowned American drummer, singer, and percussionist. She has collaborated with an impressive roster of artists including Jennifer Lopez, Kanye West, Lionel Richie, Prince, Billy Cobham, Hans Zimmer, Ringo Starr, George Duke, and Beyoncé.
Born on December 12, 1957, in Oakland, California, Sheila E. is the daughter of Pete Escovedo, a well-known percussionist, and Juanita Gardere, who worked in a dairy factory. Her musical talent runs deep in her family. A proud member of Mexican heritage, she is surrounded by a legacy of musicians. Her godfather was legendary percussionist Tito Puente; her uncle Javier Escovedo founded the punk band The Zeros; Mario Escovedo fronted the long-running indie rock group The Dragons; and her late uncle Coke Escovedo co-founded the Latin rock band Azteca. Sheila E. is also related to television personality Nicole Richie.
Sheila E. began her professional music career at the age of 18 in 1976. She made her debut performing jazz alongside bassist Alphonso Johnson on the album Yesterday's Dream. Her early collaborations included performances with notable figures such as Herbie Hancock, George Duke, Lionel Richie, Diana Ross, and Marvin Gaye. Over the decades, Sheila E. has proven to be a multitalented artist, mastering various instruments including vocals, guitar, bass, percussion, and drums. She has seamlessly worked across a wide range of genres, including Latin jazz, jazz fusion, pop, funk, and pop rock, demonstrating her exceptional versatility and musicianship.
Sheila E.’s professional and personal relationship with Prince played a significant role in her rise to mainstream fame. According to her biography, she first met Prince in 1978 after a concert where she performed with her father. Prince remarked to her that he and his bassist had debated over which of them would marry her—a flirtatious comment that eventually led to both a romantic and professional partnership. Sheila E. joined Prince in the studio and contributed vocals to “Erotic City” and “Let’s Go Crazy,” part of his iconic Purple Rain project in 1984.
That same year, she achieved solo success with the hit “The Glamorous Life,” which reached No. 7 on the Billboard Hot 100 and stayed on the chart for multiple weeks. Her collaboration with Prince not only boosted her career but also showcased her capabilities as a lead performer, songwriter, and bandleader.
Following the success of “The Glamorous Life,” Sheila E. released several notable works during the 1980s, including the albums Romance 1600 (1985) and hit singles like “A Love Bizarre” and “Holly Rock.” Known for her dynamic stage presence and exceptional talent, she served as both drummer and musical director in many of Prince's projects. Her contributions extended into songwriting and studio work, including participation in the jazz-funk project Madhouse.
Her achievements garnered critical recognition, including Grammy nominations and MTV Video Music Awards—most notably for Best Female Video and Best Choreography. These accolades affirmed her place in the music industry not just as a supporting musician but as a distinguished solo artist.
Though she never married, Sheila E. has referred to Prince as the “song of her life,” reflecting the depth of their bond both on and off stage. Despite the personal complications arising from Prince’s concurrent relationships, including one with Wendy Melvoin of The Revolution, Sheila E. has maintained a gracious public stance, keeping the focus on her music and artistic legacy.
To this day, Sheila E. continues to perform and share her talent with audiences around the world. Her contributions to music, particularly in percussion and fusion genres, solidify her status as a trailblazer and icon in the industry. Her enduring influence and inspiring journey remain deeply appreciated by fans and fellow musicians alike.
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