I've wanted to write about Sheila E's "Glamorous Life" for quite some time, and I stumbled upon it this evening. The song came out in 1984, and I admit that I never really knew the lyrics -- other than the chorus. In fact, I hadn't paid much attention, because I was always so mesmerized by the percussion. As we all know, Sheila E is a percussionist, and she really tears it up in this tune. Twenty-eight years after its 1984 release, it still sounds vibrant, fresh, and amazing. I just can't seem to get that percussion out of my head! The video always scared me a bit. It's a weird juxtaposition of Sheila E on stage and Sheila E playing the woman who she sings about. You know -- the one wearing the long fur coat of mink, even in the summertime. I had always understood that lyric, but it wasn't until this evening that I discovered the rest. "She's got big thoughts, big dreams, and..." Well, I had no idea until tonight that it's "big thoughts, big dreams, and a big brown Mercedes sedan." WHAT?! A big brown Mercedes sedan? Yikes! That is intriguing and disappointing at the same time. I mean, kudos to Prince for using "sedan" in a pop song, but, sheesh. Sedan sounds a bit dull. Wouldn't have expected it in the "Glamorous Life," but hey, it is a Mercedes. So... I guess it's alright. This is a terrific tune, and I also never realized it was a soprano sax in the sax solo. Guess I hadn't paid attention. If you're looking to find a Mercedes in any other songs, well, check out "Mercedes Boy" by Pebbles. This song was the coolest in 1988 when I was in 8th grade, but boy am I embarrassed to even admit that today. Thank goodness for Sheila E!!!!
