The return to live music gets a boost in May at the Tampa Bay Black Heritage Festival’s Music Fest, which will feature iconic percussionist, singer and songwriter Sheila E.
The two-day festival happens May 8-9 at Curtis Hixon Park in Tampa.
Born into a musical family, Sheila Escovedo started drumming when she was just 3. She performed live for the first time two years later.
She rose to international fame in 1984 with her album The Glamorous Life. She’s considered the “Queen of Percussion” and has performed or recorded with Herbie Hancock, Lionel Richie and Diana Ross, to name a few.
Also performing are Joyce Irby & Klymaxx, a pop-funk band whose hit I Miss You landed at No. 3 on Billboard’s Hot 100 year-end chart in 1986. They’ll perform on May 8, as will smooth jazz hitmakers Guitar G Force. On May 9, acclaimed gospel artist Jonathan McReynolds and Sheila E. perform.
There will be food trucks and vendors.
General admission tickets are $30 for two days or $20 for a single day. Preferred seating tickets are $70 for two days, $40 per single day. VIP tickets are $380 for two days, $210 for a single day. Concert cabanas are $900 for the weekend or $600 for a single day.
All tickets will admit two people in order to ensure social distancing. General admission pods will accommodate two, while Preferred and VIP section pods will be set for four.
Virtual tickets are also available for $15 for two days or $10 for a single day. A link to the livestream will be sent via email.
For tickets and more information, visit tampablackheritage.org.