World-renowned, Grammy-nominated percussionist, singer, songwriter, humanitarian, author and actress, the iconic Sheila E, will perform at the United Negro College Fund (UNCF) “A Mind Is…” Gala – Chicago, on Saturday, June 17, at 6 p.m., at the Hyatt Regency, 151 E. Wacker Drive.
Sheila E has played some of the world’s greatest stages. Her performances pulse with passion and rhythmic heat. She never ceases to leave audiences on their feet, inspired by her fire and energy.
The legendary performer will rock the UNCF house with music from her extensive discography, which began when she was a Prince protégé, mixing Latin jazz, R&B, pop and funk to develop her unique rhythmic sound. Prince helped her launch her solo career and produce her first album, “The Glamorous Life.” Last year, she released the single “Girl Meets Boy” in his honor.
“Sheila E is a musical genius with whom we fell in love in the 80s. She is a percussionist unlike any other. We look forward to a night of heavy beats and soulful sounds while we raise money to help send deserving students to college,” said Lisa Rollins, UNCF regional director, Workplace Initiatives.
Sheila Escovedo hails from a royal family of music including father Pete Escovedo. Her Godfather was famous Latin jazz percussionist Tito Puente. She began performing with her family at the age of five. In her book, The Beat of My Own Drum, she writes, “Before I had language, I had rhythm.”
The UNCF “A Mind Is…” Gala Presenting Sponsor is the World Champion Chicago Cubs. Donors and partners also include BMO Harris Bank, ITW, US Bank, ComEd, Allstate, NBC5 Chicago, WinTrust, AT&T, InTren, GCM Grosvenor, Chase, Boeing, Chicago Defender, Nicor Gas, Northwestern Kellogg School of Business, JB Pritzker, American Air- lines, Aldridge Electric, Mary Hines, Peoples Gas, iHeartMedia Chicago, Aramark, KPMG and Coaxum Family Restaurants.
