*The only words I can find to describe what I witnessed on July 27 at the Catalina Bar and Grill in Hollywood are, “OH MY!” Latin Jazz sensation and percussionist Pete Escovedo, you know, Sheila E’s dad, brought his Latin Jazz Band into the place and had everyone wanting to salsa, samba and merengue.
The night kicked off with the mega band performing Earth, Wind and Fire’s, “In the Stone.” All of the songs they performed of course had a Latin flair and “In the Stone” was a nice upbeat way to start the evening.
From there they moved on to Stevie Wonder’s, “Don’t You Worry Bout a Thing,” Michael Jackson’s “Can’t Help It,” Teena Marie’s “Portuguese Love,” and Marvin Gaye’s, “I Want You,” among others. All of their renditions were muy caliente (very hot)!
The Pete Escovedo Latin Jazz Band came equipped with two vocalists with major pipes. Sy Smith performed Al Green’s “Let’s Stay Together” and Tracy Carter performed Bobby Caldwell’s, “What You Won’t Do for Love.” Both songs are from Pete Escovedo’s latest album, “Back to the Bay,” and both were off the hook!
At one point, Pops Escovedo quipped that Sy’s recording of “Let’s Stay Together” made him an overnight sensation. After the show, Sy mentioned she has been in the business for 20 years. Since many people had not heard of her prior to her recording the song originally made famous by Al Green, I would say they were good for each other.
The evening would not be complete without an appearance and performance by the most famous Escovedo, Sheila E, who put on a major drum performance, despite not having her own equipment. Sheila and her brothers Juan and Peter Michael, who is also the music conductor, had a drum challenge that was in another stratosphere; enough so that it garnered a standing ovation. Actually, there were several well-deserved standing ovations during the evening.
Let me just say that Pops Escovedo is the youngest, hippest 83 year old I have ever seen. His personality was witty, charming, endearing, and his smile infectious. He made timely references to CNN, Donald Trump and even the little blue pill. LOL! I loved him, his band and his personality.
Mama Escovedo, who is a very spry 81 year old, was also on hand, as well as the youngest daughter, who Pops was quick to point out is the only family member who does not play an instrument. Her talent seems to lie in dancing, as evidenced by her dancing with her mother in the, “Let’s Stay Together” video.
If you have not seen the video (immediately above), you have missed a treat and need to check it out.
You can tell the Escovedo’s actually like and love each other. Their loving banter and joking on stage was very authentic and endearing. You could actually feel the realness and authenticity. I will jump at the next opportunity to be in the presence of such an amazing family. Thanks for the entertaining evening, Escovedo clan.
Marilyn Smith is a Los Angeles based writer/reviewer. Contact her via [email protected].
We Publish News 24/7. Don’t Miss A Story. Click HERE to SUBSCRIBE to Our Newsletter Now!
