21 Quotes by Sheila E.

The point in me playing with Prince was to let a lot of people know that I can play trap. I don't think people know that.

My genre of music is very eclectic. I might play some Latin jazz, or just go into a spontaneous jazz thing. That's the thing about coming to one of my performances. Not every show is the same.

For us as entertainers traveling, the schedule gets really crazy - flying all the time, being on a bus tour, changing hotels every day. And it's challenging.

What drives me is really just being able to be a blessing to someone, you know. I really enjoy that, and as much as I can do, I will.

Having that music around us all the time, it was so inspiring. But at the same time, I was a kid. I didn't pay attention to any of it. I'd get on the drums and hit them a few times, and then go outside and play.

I went to a great church here in L.A., gave my heart to the Lord and felt freedom from things I've carried throughout my life that I just thought, 'I don't have to carry them any more.'

Don't forget, I was a musician long before I ever met Prince. That's a big difference between me and those other women he's worked with. We operate on the same plane, as equals.

Engaging with the audience lets them know I'm approachable. I don't like that whole, 'You can't talk to Sheila E thing' - I don't like that.

It was very cool to be honored and be acknowledged in that way for the first time ever, being nominated for an Emmy.