Sheila E. (born Sheila Cecilia Escovedo on December 12, 1957) is a legendary American drummer, percussionist, singer, songwriter, producer, and actress, widely known as the “Queen of Percussion.”
She stands out as one of the first women to achieve mainstream superstardom as a drummer and percussionist in pop, funk, R&B, and Latin music. Rolling Stone ranked her #58 on its list of the 100 Greatest Drummers of All Time (2016), and she’s earned acclaim for her dynamic playing on drums, timbales, congas, and other percussion instruments.
Background and Early Career
Born and raised in Oakland, California, Sheila grew up in a deeply musical family:
• Her father was the renowned Latin jazz percussionist Pete Escovedo.
• She has musician uncles (including Coke Escovedo) and her godfather was the legendary Tito Puente.
• She showed talent early, performing publicly at age 5 and filling in on congas with her dad’s band Azteca at 15.
She started professionally as a percussionist with George Duke’s band (1976–1980), then worked with artists like Herbie Hancock, Billy Cobham, Marvin Gaye (on his final tour), Diana Ross, and Lionel Richie. Her style blends funk, jazz, Latin rhythms, and pop energy.
Rise to Fame with Prince
She met Prince backstage in 1977 (while playing with her dad), and they became close collaborators and friends (they were briefly engaged). Prince produced her breakthrough solo debut album, The Glamorous Life (1984), which went gold. The title track became a Top 10 hit, and she followed it with hits like “A Love Bizarre” (a duet with Prince from Romance 1600, 1985).
She opened for Prince on the Purple Rain tour, served as musical director for his Sign o’ the Times and Lovesexy tours, played drums/percussion on many of his projects, and rejoined him for tours like the One Nite Alone… Tour. Their chemistry was electric—fans still rave about moments like Prince on drums while Sheila sang/danced.
Solo Career and Collaborations
Beyond Prince, Sheila has:
• Toured as a drummer with Ringo Starr & His All-Starr Band multiple times.
• Worked with Gloria Estefan, Beyoncé, Jennifer Lopez, Patti LaBelle, Stevie Nicks, and many others.
• Released several solo albums and continues performing/touring (e.g., Hella FonkE era and recent shows with her band the E-Train).
She remains active in 2025–2026, with new music (including salsa projects), a Hollywood Walk of Fame star (as the first female solo percussionist to receive one), and induction into the Percussive Arts Society Hall of Fame as the first Latina percussionist/drumset player.
Legacy
Sheila broke barriers for women in drumming and percussion, proving the rhythm section could be front and center. She’s praised for her technique, stage presence, versatility, and ability to drive a band’s groove while delivering vocals and energy. Fans and peers call her performances fiery and unforgettable—whether on timbales, a full drum kit, or leading a solo.
If you’re looking for specific videos (like her iconic drum solos, Prince collabs, or “The Glamorous Life” performances), recommendations, or details on a particular era/album, let me know! Her official site is sheilae.com, and she’s active on socials as @sheilae or Sheila E. Drummer.
