Gloria Estefan and Sheila E. lit up the stage during a vibrant "Bemba Colorá" performance on "Jimmy Kimmel Live," captivating audiences with their infectious energy and dynamic vocals. Accompanied by a live band and a group of talented backup singers, the duo shared the lively track, highlighting Sheila E.'s exploration of salsa music.
"Bemba Colorá" is one of the standout tracks on Sheila E.'s acclaimed salsa album, "Bailar," released in April 2024. The album features collaborations with various Latin music legends, including Gloria Estefan, Rubén Blades, Debi Nova, and Gilberto Santa Rosa. This project marks Sheila E.'s first venture into salsa—a long-time dream for the Queen of Percussion.
Grammy Nominations and a Passion for Salsa
Sheila E.'s "Bailar" is nominated for Best Tropical Latin Album at the upcoming Grammy Awards, while "Bemba Colorá" is running for Best Global Music Performance. Despite multiple Grammy nominations over the years, Sheila E. has yet to take home the coveted trophy. This year, she's poised to make history with her salsa debut, a genre she described as both challenging and deeply rewarding.
"A salsa album has been on my bucket list for years," Sheila E. told Rolling Stone. "I grew up playing Latin jazz with my father, but salsa music is another level. The precision it requires is incredible. I wanted to create something that would make people say, 'Wow, this is amazing.'"
Honoring Celia Cruz and Salsa's Legacy
In 2024, Sheila E. paid tribute to Celia Cruz, the Queen of Salsa, by reinterpreting Cruz's iconic track "Bemba Colorá" for International Women's Day. Joined by Estefan and Mimy Succar, Sheila infused new life into the classic, blending tradition with her signature style. This reinterpretation also became part of "Bailar," which serves as both a homage to salsa's rich history and a celebration of its enduring influence.
"I have so much admiration for the legends of salsa, and I wanted this album to honor their legacy," Sheila E. told HOLA! "Every track on "Bailar" reflects my deep love for the genre while incorporating my own musicality."
A Lifetime of Musical Achievements
Sheila E., born Sheila Cecelia Escovedo, grew up in a musically rich household in Oakland, California. Her father, legendary Mexican-American jazz percussionist Pete Escovedo, introduced her to Latin jazz. Her godfather, the iconic Tito Puente, further influenced her musical journey.
"When I was growing up, my dad met Tito Puente at 18 years old. And so Tito used to come to our house, when they would play San Francisco in the Bay Area, where I was born and raised in Oakland. My dad would go and see him perform. So I was used to hearing my dad play and practice every day at home, playing to artists like Mongo Santamaria, Celia Cruz, Tito, and Fania All-Stars," comments Sheila E. to HOLA!
At just five years old, Sheila performed her first gig alongside her father, setting the stage for a career that has spanned decades. She's collaborated with music icons like Herbie Hancock, Diana Ross, Ringo Starr, Whitney Houston, and Prince, whose partnership helped catapult her to fame in the 1980s. Sheila became a household name with her hit single "The Glamorous Life," which earned her multiple Grammy and American Music Award nominations.
Most recently, Sheila E. was inducted as the first female solo percussionist to receive a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.
With "Bailar," Sheila E. has entered a bold new chapter in her career, embracing salsa's intricate rhythms and vibrant energy. The album blends traditional salsa elements with her unique artistry, offering listeners a mix of nostalgia and innovation.