As the legendary Sheila E. prepares for a dazzling appearance on Coast-to-Coast: Countdown to 2025, she reflected on a mantra that she said has guided her journey in life and as an artist: “Follow the beat.” “‘Follow the beat’ is about living your fullest life,” Sheila explains. “Your heart is your rhythm—your own beat. No one can take that away. Living your rhythm is about finding what makes you happy and embracing it.” Sheila’s journey hasn’t been without its challenges. She recounted her experience as a woman in a male-dominated industry and being labeled a “female percussionist,” “I’m an artist. I just happen to be a woman," she said. "It’s 2025, and people still put that label in front of my name.” Sheila said growing up in a household filled with music shaped her artistry. Her father, Latin jazz musician Pete Escovedo, and her mother, who played piano and sang, helped to foster her love for music. JIMMY KIMMEL LIVE! "Jimmy Kimmel Live!" airs every weeknight at 11:35 p.m. EDT and features a diverse lineup of guests that include celebrities, athletes, musical acts, comedians and human interest subjects, along with comedy bits and a house band. The guests for Tuesday, October 4 included Norman Reedus (The Walking Dead), Danielle Deadwyler (Till), and musical guest Miranda Lambert. (Randy Holmes/ABC via Getty Images) SHEILA E “I was lucky to sit next to my dad as he practiced or hosted jam sessions in our living room. Music was everywhere, every day,” she recalled. Her latest salsa album, Bailar, marks another milestone. Sheila brought authenticity and a touch of her Oakland roots to the project. “It’s one of the most amazing projects I’ve done. It’s authentic and celebrates my identity while honoring salsa’s legacy.” Looking ahead to 2025, fans can expect more from Sheila, including tours and new music. “I’m blessed to do what I love. It’s tiring, but it’s worth it to share music and joy.” As Sheila E. prepares to ring in the new year with her fans, she plans to bring her rhythm to Coast-to-Coast Countdown to 2025, an exclusive New Year’s Eve special that will transport over 50 million American homes through four time zones of midnight celebrations live from the iconic Treasure Island Hotel and Casino lagoon on the Las Vegas Strip. The Jacksons, Foreigner, Rick Springfield, Spin Doctors, Lisa Lisa, George Thorogood, Exposé, Deborah Cox, Lita Ford, Morris Day, and Lee Rocker of the Stray Cats will join Sheila E. to rock you into 2025. Check your local listings for details on how to watch, or stream Coast-to-Coast Countdown to 2025 LIVE on this website and enjoy exclusive bonus content not seen anywhere else.