Sheila E. is a musical icon known worldwide as a drummer, percussionist, songwriter, singer, producer, and philanthropist. She is known for a number of hit songs like “The Glamorous Life” and collaborations with the likes of Lionel Richie, George Duke, Beyoncé, and Prince. So, it was no surprise that when she was announced as a performer at the 33rd Flint Jazz Festival, the City was abuzz with excitement!

Sheila E. came to PERFORM, with a cool band and backup singers to boot! She jumped right into it, performing songs from her new album, Icon including "Lovely Day". The Latin flavor was ELECTRIC and the crowd was rocking with her from start to finish! Including the cast of colorful characters that were sitting near us, including a woman we have dubbed, "The Original Twerker".

We especially liked that Sheila came out into the crowd during the show to sign copies of her new CD, while her backup singer GOT DOWN! She also talked about starting her own label, after the record companies told her "no". Who says no to Sheila E.? The industry has definitely lost its way in regards to talent, but we're glad Sheila persevered and started her own label in order to keep blessing us with her AMAZING music!

She also tapped into the 1980's, performing "A Love Bizarre", "The Glamourous Life", and for all the Krush Groove fans in the house, "Holly Rock". Sheila E. is a PERFORMER through and through, something that is lacking in a lot of new artists. And for our first time at the Flint Jazz Festival; it was well worth the $5 price of admission!

We didn't get a chance to hear Jim Coviak & Friends, but we heard he was great and included kids from the Boys and Girls Club during his performance. How cool is that?

Now, we did make it in time to hear Phil Denny and we were excited! The Lansing, MI native's performance at the Flint Jazz Festival was his first show after returning from Nairobi, Kenya! And it was GREAT! He performed a number of songs, including "Push" and a cover of "Joy and Pain" by Maze featuring Frankie Beverly. He is HOT on the saxophone! And if you are not familiar with him, he's definitely worth checking out!

The Flint Jazz Festival is a highlight of the summer and a great way to spend the weekend! For more on the Flint Jazz Festival, now in its 33rd year go to facebook.com/FlintJazzFestival. And to check out all things Sheila E. head over to sheilae.com and for information on Phil Denny go to phildenny.com.

Sheila E. performs during the 33rd Flint Jazz Festival. (Marissa Pierce/ Phashion Phish)

Sheila E. performing during the 33rd Flint Jazz Festival. (Marissa Pierce/ Phahsion Phish)

Sheila E. performing during the 33rd Flint Jazz Festival. (Marissa Pierce/ Phashion Phish)

Phil Denny performing during the 33rd Flint Jazz Festival. (Marissa Pierce/ Phashion Phish)

Phil Denny performs during the 33rd Flint Jazz Festival. (Marissa Pierce/ Phahsion Phish)