On this day August 26 1985 Sheila E released her second studio album Romance 1600. Following her debut album The Glamorous Life this release took a more adventurous turn both musically and visually. Romance 1600 blended funk Latin rhythms synth driven pop and theatrical flair all wrapped in a storybook concept of courtly romance and rebellion.
The album’s standout hit was A Love Bizarre a nine minute duet with Prince that dominated the airwaves and dancefloors. The track was later shortened for radio but the full version became an essential 80s jam. Sheila E’s image on the album was bold and dramatic complete with ruffled lace corsets and a sword which made her stand apart from other female pop acts of the time.
Romance 1600 cemented her as more than just a Prince protégé. With this album she carved out her own musical identity while still drawing strength from the Minneapolis sound. The production was slick and layered with plenty of percussion flourishes showcasing her talent not just as a vocalist but as a world class drummer.
80s insight: Sheila E was one of the few female artists in the 80s leading a band playing drums and fronting chart hits all while building a signature style that mixed power grace and innovation.
The album’s standout hit was A Love Bizarre a nine minute duet with Prince that dominated the airwaves and dancefloors. The track was later shortened for radio but the full version became an essential 80s jam. Sheila E’s image on the album was bold and dramatic complete with ruffled lace corsets and a sword which made her stand apart from other female pop acts of the time.
Romance 1600 cemented her as more than just a Prince protégé. With this album she carved out her own musical identity while still drawing strength from the Minneapolis sound. The production was slick and layered with plenty of percussion flourishes showcasing her talent not just as a vocalist but as a world class drummer.
80s insight: Sheila E was one of the few female artists in the 80s leading a band playing drums and fronting chart hits all while building a signature style that mixed power grace and innovation.
