Sheila E.
Judge
Since picking up drumsticks at the age of 3, Sheila E. has been a compelling
force in the music industry.
Inspired by her father, legendary Latin jazz percussionist and orchestra
leader Pete Escovedo, Sheila E. found herself as a top session and touring
musician in the 1980s, performing with Herbie Hancock, Marvin Gaye, Diana Ross
and Lionel Richie. But it was her friend Prince who helped catapult her career
into pop superstardom with the hits "The Glamorous Life" and "A Love Bizarre" as
well as working with her on his numerous other projects.
Sheila E. has also served as musical director for Jennifer Lopez, Beyoncé and
Prince, and she became television's first female music director, for Magic
Johnson's "The Magic Hour." Recently, she appeared with and played drums for
Ringo Starr and his All-Starr Band. Her current project, C.O.E.D. (Chronicles of
Every Diva), is touring worldwide and preparing for a new record release.
Along with her commitment to music, philanthropist Sheila E. maintains a
heavy involvement with charitable organizations, including serving as chair and
co-founder of the Elevate Hope Foundation, focusing on promoting music and arts
to victims of child abuse.
Sheila E. lives in Los Angeles.