On this date in 1985, Hip-Hop bigwig Russell Simmons along with film producer Michael Schultz unveiled the Hip-Hop glory days fairy tale about the early days of Def Jam in the Warner Brothers distributed Krush Groove.
This cinematic, quasi-musical was told in a very unique manner, with almost all of the artists playing themselves as the story is being told; The Fat Boys, Run-D.M.C., Kurtis Blow, Jeckyl and Hyde, the Beastie Boys and Sheila E. all starred as themselves, while being managed by Russell(ironically, played by Blair Underwood) and a young Rick Rubin before they became the icons that they are recognized as today. The flick even gives a quick peek into how Def Jam’s rookie and first solo artist L.L. Cool J was recruited in Def Jam’s NYU dorm “office”.
The movie’s soundtrack boasts more than a few hits, such as The Fat Boys’ “All You Can Eat”. LL’s “I Can’t Live Without My Radio”, the original “If I Ruled The World” by Kurtis Blow, which was famously remixed by Nas and Lauryn Hill a decade after the movie’s release and the title track by The Krush Groove All Stars.
Shout out to all of the legends who were quarterbacked by Hip-Hop’s Barack Russell Simmons in making this Def Jam biopic forever a Hip Hop classic!
Sheila E. is a renowned percussionist, singer, and actress. She has a net worth of $4 million as of 2024, according to CelebrityNetWorth. Her dynamic career in the music industry, marked by collaborations with legendary artists and her own solo success, has significantly contributed to her wealth and lasting influence. Sheila Escovedo, known professionally as Sheila E., was born in Oakland, California on December 12, 1957. She grew up in a musical family, with her father, Pete Escovedo, a well-known percussionist. Sheila began playing percussion instruments at a young age, inspired by her father’s career and the vibrant musical environment of her household. By age five, she was already performing alongside her father and other musicians.
Her talent and passion for music quickly became evident, and she soon performed with some of the biggest names in the industry. Sheila’s early career was marked by collaborations with artists such as George Duke, Lionel Richie, and Marvin Gaye. These experiences honed her skills and positioned her as a formidable talent in the music world.
Breakthrough With Prince & Solo Career
MINNEAPOLIS, MN – OCTOBER 25: Sheila E. performs at First Avenue nightclub in Minneapolis, Minnesota on The Glamorous Life Tour on October 25, 1984. (Photo by Jim Steinfeldt/Michael Ochs Archives/Getty Images)
Sheila E.’s career took a significant turn when she began working with Prince in the early 1980s. Their collaboration started with her contribution to his 1984 album Purple Rain, and she soon became a key member of his band, The Revolution. Prince’s influence and mentorship were instrumental in her rise to fame, and he helped her launch her solo career.
Her debut album, The Glamorous Life (1984), produced by Prince, was a commercial success. The title track, “The Glamorous Life,” became a hit, earning her Grammy Award nominations and solidifying her status as a solo artist. Sheila E. followed this success with her second album, Romance 1600 (1985), which featured another hit single, “A Love Bizarre.” These albums showcased her unique blend of pop, funk, and Latin rhythms and established her as a versatile and innovative artist.
Continued Success & Collaborations
LAS VEGAS, NEVADA – NOVEMBER 17: Sheila E. attends the 2021 Latin Grammy Special Awards Presentation Awards at the Four Seasons Hotel Las Vegas on November 17, 2021 in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Photo by Arturo Holmes/Getty Images)
Throughout the 1980s and 1990s, Sheila E. continued to release successful albums and tour extensively. Her work during this period included albums like Sheila E. (1987) and Sex Cymbal (1991). In addition to her solo projects, she remained a sought-after collaborator, working with artists such as Ringo Starr, Herbie Hancock, and Diana Ross. Further, Sheila E.’s talent extends beyond music to acting, with appearances in films like Krush Groove (1985) and various television shows. Her dynamic stage presence and musical versatility have kept her in demand as a performer, both as a solo artist and as part of ensemble acts.
Personal Life & Legacy
Sheila E. at the star ceremony where Sheila E. is honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame on July 12, 2023 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Michael Buckner/Variety via Getty Images)
Sheila E.’s personal life is as rich and varied as her career. Known for her deep faith and philanthropic efforts, she has been involved in numerous charitable activities, particularly those focused on music education and youth empowerment. Her autobiography, The Beat of My Own Drum (2014), provides an intimate look at her life and career, offering insights into her journey as a musician and a woman in the entertainment industry.
On this date in 1985, Hip-Hop bigwig Russell Simmons along with film producer Michael Schultz unveiled the Hip-Hop glory days fairy tale about the early days of Def Jam in the Warner Brothers distributed Krush Groove.
This cinematic, quasi-musical was told in a very unique manner, with almost all of the artists playing themselves as the story is being told; The Fat Boys, Run-D.M.C., Kurtis Blow, Jeckyl and Hyde, the Beastie Boys and Sheila E. all starred as themselves, while being managed by Russell(ironically, played by Blair Underwood) and a young Rick Rubin before they became the icons that they are recognized as today. The flick even gives a quick peek into how Def Jam’s rookie and first solo artist L.L. Cool J was recruited in Def Jam’s NYU dorm “office”.
The movie’s soundtrack boasts more than a few hits, such as The Fat Boys’ “All You Can Eat”. LL’s “I Can’t Live Without My Radio”, the original “If I Ruled The World” by Kurtis Blow, which was famously remixed by Nas and Lauryn Hill a decade after the movie’s release and the title track by The Krush Groove All Stars.
Shout out to all of the legends who were quarterbacked by Hip-Hop’s Barack Russell Simmons in making this Def Jam biopic forever a Hip Hop classic!
