Donny Hathaway was an American soul singer, keyboardist, songwriter, and arranger, renowned for his rich, gospel-infused vocals and profound musicality. Born in Chicago, Illinois, Hathaway was raised in St. Louis, Missouri, by his grandmother, Martha Pitts, a professional gospel singer, who introduced him to music at a young age. He began singing in church choirs and studying piano, which laid the foundation for his future career. Hathaway attended Howard University on a fine arts scholarship, where he studied music and became a member of the Alpha Phi Alpha fraternity. Although he left before completing his degree, his time at Howard was pivotal, as he formed significant musical relationships, including with Roberta Flack.In the late 1960s, Hathaway worked as a songwriter, session musician, and producer for Curtis Mayfield’s Curtom Records in Chicago. He released his debut single, “I Thank You, Baby,” in 1969, followed by his acclaimed debut album, “Everything Is Everything,” in 1970. His subsequent self-titled album in 1971 featured notable covers, including Leon Russell’s “A Song for You.”Hathaway’s collaborations with Roberta Flack yielded significant success, particularly their 1972 duet album, which included the Grammy-winning single “Where Is the Love.” Their partnership continued with hits like “The Closer I Get to You” in 1978.Despite his professional achievements, Hathaway faced personal challenges, including struggles with mental health. Tragically, his life ended prematurely in 1979, but his musical legacy continues to influence artists and captivate audiences worldwide.

Sheila E. is an American singer, drummer, and percussionist renowned for her dynamic performances and contributions to various music genres, including pop, R&B, jazz, and Latin music. She is often hailed as the “Queen of Percussion” for her exceptional skills and trailblazing presence in the music industry. Born into a musical family, Sheila E. is the daughter of percussionist Pete Escovedo and has Mexican-American and Creole-French/African heritage. Her early exposure to music led her to perform publicly at the age of five, sharing the stage with her father. This early experience solidified her passion for percussion.She began her professional career in the mid-1970s, collaborating with artists such as George Duke and Herbie Hancock. Her association with Prince in the 1980s significantly boosted her career; she contributed to his projects and gained recognition for her fierce drumming style and Latin rhythms.In 1984, Sheila E. released her debut solo album, “The Glamorous Life,” featuring the hit title track that earned her multiple Grammy Award nominations. She continued her success with subsequent albums like “Romance 1600” and the single “A Love Bizarre.”Beyond her solo work, Sheila E. has been a sought-after collaborator, working with artists such as Ringo Starr, Beyoncé, and Gloria Estefan. She has also served as a musical director for television shows, including “The Magic Hour,” becoming the first female musical director in television. Sheila E.’s contributions to music have been widely recognized. In 2021, she received the Latin Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award, and in 2023, she was honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, becoming the first female solo percussionist to receive this accolade.In addition to her musical achievements, Sheila E. is an author; her memoir, “The Beat of My Own Drum,” details her life’s journey, the healing power of music, and her spiritual growth. With a career spanning over five decades, Sheila E. continues to inspire and influence musicians worldwide, solidifying her legacy as a pioneering and dynamic force in the music industry.