Once upon a time, as if in a dream, I landed the opportunity to have dinner with Sheila E and her band in Birmingham, Alabama.
It was a once in a lifetime chance to hang out with some of the musicians that shaped my style as a fan and aspiring musical artist.
I’ll spare you the details, but give you a few highlights about some of the amazing folks I met that evening.
Lynn Mabry
Lynn Mabry is another amazing singer, and is a business partner with Sheila E as co-founder of Elevate Hope Foundation benefitting abused and abandoned children.
She sang with Sly and the Family Stone, P-Funk, Stevie Nicks and George Michael just to name a few.
Rebecca Jade
Rebecca Jade is an incredible vocalist, who has performed with the likes of Sheila E, Sir Elton John, and was the official singer for the San Diego Gulls NHL hockey team.
Eddie “M” Mininfield
Eddie “M” is a talented saxophonist who has played with Sheila E, Prince, and Aretha Franklin.
Raymond McKinley
Raymond McKinley is the bassist and tour manager for Sheila E. He is also a producer and recording engineer.
Sheila E
Sheila E is known as “The Queen of Percussion,” performing with artists including George Duke, Lionel Richie, Marvin Gaye, Herbie Hancock and Diana Ross.
She also worked with Ringo Starr & His All-Starr Band, Beyonce, and Prince.
Conclusion
At the dinner, I did my best to keep my cool and make small talk, but inside I was so excited to be sitting at that table with some of my musical heroes.
It was such a great moment for me in 2017, and I’m happy to have been able to share such a remarkable evening having dinner with Sheila E and her band.
