OPINION: This article may contain commentary which reflects the author’s opinion.
The late music legend Prince and iconic percussionist Sheila E. shared a deep, undeniable connection, both professionally and personally. However, despite their chemistry, the two never married. In a recent conversation with The Guardian, Sheila E. opened up about their relationship and reflected on their powerful bond, revealing why it never led to a lifelong commitment.
Sheila E. admitted that she and Prince “couldn’t resist each other” and even recalled a moment when Prince, during a live performance, mouthed the words “marry me” to her across the stage. Yet, despite the spark between them, the relationship never evolved into marriage. Sheila E. explained, “We just grew apart,” noting that although they loved working together, it eventually didn’t feel right for either of them.
Part of the reason the couple didn’t marry was their differing views on relationships. Sheila E. shared that while she understood Prince would have other partners, she couldn’t embrace that dynamic. “I guess there are some women that don’t care if there’s the other woman,” she reflected. “I do care. We shouldn’t be sharing each other.” Raised by parents who had been high school sweethearts and together for over six decades, Sheila E. had a different vision of love and commitment.
Their relationship started after Prince pursued Sheila E. tirelessly. While she had always admired his talent, she was hesitant to get involved with another musician, especially as she was recovering from a difficult breakup. However, as time passed, their connection became undeniable. Sheila E. shared, “I came from a time of trying to stay away from sleeping with people that you work with. But then we couldn’t resist each other.”
Though their romantic relationship didn’t last, Sheila E. found her own path to stardom with Prince’s support. The musician produced her 1984 debut album The Glamorous Life, which catapulted her to fame. Yet, fame came with its own set of challenges. Sheila E. admitted the difficulty of navigating a career that demanded so much attention and control, leading her to a mindset where she felt she could command people rather than collaborate with them.
Sheila E.’s relationship with Prince remains a complex and emotional chapter in her life. Following his untimely death in 2016, she has expressed lingering feelings of anger and grief. At the 2023 Grammy tribute to Prince, Sheila E. revealed that she couldn’t help but cry while performing “The Cross” with Gary Clark Jr., a song she had only ever played with Prince. “I’m mad that he’s not here,” she said. “I’m thinking: ‘What could I have done?’”
Despite their personal distance, Sheila E. and Prince’s musical collaboration left an indelible mark on the world. Their shared passion for music and their connection on stage will forever be remembered, even as Sheila E. continues to grapple with the emotions of losing her dear friend and former lover.
