Sheila E. is celebrated as a phenomenal percussionist and drummer, famously known for her dynamic collaborations with Prince. While her solo work is extensive and impressive, her contributions to Prince’s music are particularly noteworthy. This article explores the songs where Sheila E.’s drumming and percussion talents enriched Prince’s iconic sound.
From the early 1980s through the late 2000s, Sheila E.’s rhythmic prowess was woven into various Prince albums and associated projects. Her earliest credited work includes vocals on “Erotic City,” a track where she notably did not play drums, and percussion on the extended version of “I Would Die 4 U,” where Bobby Z. handled the drum kit.
Her presence is evident on several albums. On Around The World In A Day, she laid down the drum track for “Pop Life,” marking her sole appearance on this album, while other tracks featured Bobby Z. or Prince himself on drums. Parade showcased her versatility with drums on “Venus de Milo” and possibly the B-side “Alexa de Paris,” cowbell on “Life Can Be So Nice,” and background vocals on “Girls and Boys.” Bobby Z. and Jonathan Melvoin also contributed drums on specific tracks on this album, with Prince taking on the majority of the drumming duties.
The Sign O The Times album credits Sheila E. on drums for the hit “U Got The Look.” She also added rap vocals and percussion to “It’s Gonna Be A Beautiful Night,” where she shared drumming duties with Bobby Z. Wendy and Lisa might have also contributed percussion on “Strange Relationship,” but Prince primarily handled the drums on this album.
While the exact songs are less documented for Black Album and Lovesexy, Sheila E.’s vocals are present on both. It is confirmed that she played drums on “Eye No” from Lovesexy. Additionally, it’s believed she contributed drums to Madhouse tracks 10 and 11, projects closely associated with Prince, while Prince himself played drums on most other Madhouse tracks. An unreleased track from 1986, “In A Large Room With No Light,” intended for Dream Factory, also features her drumming.
Later in their collaborations, Sheila E.’s contributions continued. On Graffiti Bridge, she is credited with both drums and vocals on the title track. Moving into the 2000s, she added percussion to “Dear Mr. Man” on the Musicology album and “Get On The Boat” on 3121. Although her direct involvement with Crystal Ball (1998) is unconfirmed, the drumming on “Sexual Suicide” was reportedly inspired by rhythms she had taught Prince.
Sheila E.’s drumming and percussion work across Prince’s discography highlights her significant musical partnership with him. Her rhythmic skills added a unique flavor to many of his songs, making her contributions an essential part of Prince’s rich musical tapestry.
