SHELIA E ON FUNK, CLAVE' AND PRINCE

The percussionist, singer/songwriter from the Bay talks a wide range of music

I was first introduced to Shelia E as a great percussionist in a bunch of good bands, including the tight fusion funk bands of Duke George. Her father Pete Escovedo and Uncle Coke were excellent musicians, so she came up with a dep understanding of the 2/3 rhythms of clave’ and a flair for showmanship. I remember seeing her in Lionel Richie’s band when he became a solo star. Obviously Prince saw her potential and recruited her his Paisley Park label, where she became the most musically talented of his many female collaborators. After she left Prince’s orbit, she continued to evolve as a band leader and musical director. When I was shooting Finding the Funk twelve years ago, I knew Shelia E was an interview I had to have since the range of her musical knowledge was vast and her use of Latin percussion in a funk context always innovative. On my YouTube channel I’ve posted about six clips from out conversation. The three here reflect her Bay Area roots, approach to playing in R&B bands and her work with Prince. At 66 she’s still going strong. If she’s ever in your town make sure you catch her show.