“He Kept It So Real!” — Sheila E. Reacts to Remembering How Prince Changed 5 of Her Biggest Hits (Exclusive)

For Sheila E., the rhythm of her drums tells a powerful story — one deeply shaped by her legendary collaboration with Prince. The longtime friends, creative partners, and occasional romantic couple shared a musical journey that transformed Sheila’s career and the sound of the 1980s. In an exclusive interview, Sheila opened up about how Prince’s intense honesty and genius reshaped five of her biggest hits, pushing her to new heights as an artist.

1️⃣ The Glamorous Life — The Song That Started It All

When Prince first played The Glamorous Life for Sheila, it wasn’t even intended for her. “He called me one night and said, ‘Come to the studio. I’ve got something for you,’” Sheila recalled. Prince insisted Sheila infuse the track with her signature timbales. “He said, ‘If you’re gonna sing it, make people feel the rhythm in your hands.’ That changed everything.” The song became her breakout hit and earned three Grammy nominations, forever defining the Minneapolis sound.

2️⃣ A Love Bizarre — Turning a Jam Session Into a Hit

What started as a 20-minute jam session in Los Angeles quickly evolved into one of Sheila’s biggest hits. Prince advised her to keep the lyrics mysterious by cutting out half the verses she’d written. “He said, ‘Keep the mystery. Don’t tell the whole story,’” Sheila said with a grin. The track reached No. 11 on the Billboard Hot 100 and taught Sheila the power of chemistry over explanation.

3️⃣ Sister Fate — Prince’s Tough Love Lesson

Sheila brought Sister Fate to Prince, confident in her version. But Prince quickly told her she was missing the right attitude. “He said, ‘You sound like you’re trying to please somebody. Don’t. Own the song.’” That tough critique pushed Sheila to channel confidence over perfection, marking a turning point in her artistry.

4️⃣ Holly Rock — The Song He Gave Away

Originally meant for Prince’s own projects, Holly Rock was gifted to Sheila for the Krush Groove soundtrack. Prince rewrote the rap section on the spot, making it funkier and tighter. “He said, ‘Now you sound like you’re running the city,’” Sheila said. The track became a live performance staple and showcased their creative synergy.

5️⃣ Belle of St. Mark — The Track That Tested Their Friendship

Belle of St. Mark sparked one of their most memorable creative clashes. Prince wanted a slower tempo; Sheila wanted faster. “He said, ‘You’re missing the emotion.’ I said, ‘You’re missing the dance floor!’” They compromised by recording both versions and letting the dance floor decide. Sheila’s upbeat version made the album, and Prince’s good-natured response was, “You were right — but don’t get used to it.”

A Lasting Legacy of Realness and Respect

“Sheila E. says that while Prince’s perfectionism could be overwhelming, it forced her to become a more authentic artist.” He once told her, “You don’t need me to shine — you already glow. I’m just showing you where the light switch is.” Since Prince’s passing in 2016, Sheila has honored their bond through songs like “Girl Meets Boy,” a heartfelt tribute to their years together.

Each drumbeat, every note, and all the lessons learned with Prince continue to resonate through Sheila E.’s music, reminding fans and artists alike of the power of honesty, trust, and pushing beyond limits.

Sheila E.’s collaboration with Prince wasn’t just musical—it was transformative, challenging her to keep it real and own her unique sound.