Live

Sheila E: Under The Bridge, London 23/11/13

If I ask you to name me a female drummer/percussionist, the first and only name that should spring to your mind is Sheila E. Ok that may be a bit too harsh, but darn it she had better be the first name you mention. Born Shelia Escovedo, but known for decades internationally as Sheila E, she is the undoubtedly the first lady of drums. Quite fittingly her new album is called “Icon”, and as revealed at her recent London show, it’s being released in Europe months before USA. How often does that happen?

Confessing to the crowd her age (lets say Shelia is E will be approaching her sixth decade in a few years) she showed she still has more energy than most of the current breed of popstars. Maybe it’s something in the water, because like Madonna, Sheila E came to London and gave a show like no other. It may have been the last night of the European tour, but there was no letting up in the energy and excitement on both sides of the stage. Just like Sheila the venue did not disappoint; amazing sound and mesmerizing lights and visuals, turned a very cold London burning hot fiesta. With her 5 piece band, Sheila E’s hands moved so fast on some of the drum solos that I actually thought it was a pre-recorded track. The hyped crowd were treated to tacks from the album like the Latin infused “Leader of the Band”, “Mona Lisa” (a personal favourite), “Rockstar” and “Lovely Day”.

There is no denying that Shelia E is a true musician; her enthusiasm beamed across her face and radiated across the room. Not afraid to go back to the past hits she treated fans to classics like “Bells of St Mark”, “Koo Koo”, and “Holly Rock”. To be honest I had forgotten Miss E could rap, and trust me like her drumming she didn’t miss a beat. Without a doubt however, the highlight of the night was when Sheila E disappeared from the stage, as the band launched into “Erotic City”. We could hear her singing but couldn’t see her for a good minute, and then like magic the musical goddess herself came walking from the back of the venue, and made her way through the crowds shaking hands and getting love. The venue erupted into applause, and it was such a great move, were it not slightly ruined by everybody deciding to pull out their camera phones and tablets to film it - people please!

Needless to say all that jumping and walking was enough to make Sheila E take off her crystal encrusted heels once she got back on stage. Special shouts were given a lady named Wendy, who has helped Sheila write her autobiography; this will be one to check out for sure, you heard it hear first. Following a stack more songs, and multi tempo drum solo from the lady herself Sheila announced the show was over, however the crowds willed her back on stage and “Glamorous Life” ended the night on a high. An amazing show by an amazing lady!

Photos care of B&S' Romain Kedochim - More visit ROMAIN PHOTOGRAPHY
Words Richard 'Ricardito' Ashie