JUAN ESCOVEDO BIRTHDAY CELEBRATION

From a young age, Juan Escovedo immersed himself in the world of rhythm, teaching himself to play bongos, congas, trap drums, timbales, and various percussion instruments. At just 14, he began performing alongside his father, the legendary Pete Escovedo. This early exposure to music laid the foundation for Juan's intricate style and originality, drawn from a rich musical heritage and a deep compassion for his craft.

Juan tours, writes, and records as a solo artist and a vital member of his father’s Latin Jazz Orchestra and The E Family. This collective includes his siblings, Peter Michael Escovedo and Sheila E. The E Family's album, Rhythm of the Night, produced and arranged by Peter Michael Escovedo, transforms nine classic Soul and R&B hits into vibrant Latin Jazz, supported by a fourteen-piece orchestra. Notable guest vocalists on the album include Peter Michael, Simon Russel, Sy Smith, Sheila E., and Escovedo’s great-grandchildren.

With over fifty years of experience, Juan has toured extensively across Asia, Europe, the Caribbean, and the United States. His collaborative spirit has led him to perform and record with an impressive roster of artists, including Prince, Tony Toni Tone, Miguel, El Chicano, Con Funk Shun, Patti LaBelle, Amerie, Chingy, Jody Watley, Lou Bega, MC Hammer, Lionel Richie, En Vogue, El DeBarge, Freddie Hubbard, Barry White, Herbie Hancock, Cyndi Lauper, Teri Lynn Carrington, Bobby McFerrin, Tito Puente, Cheryl Lynn, Raphael Saadiq, and Carlos Santana, among many others.

In November 2021, Juan launched his solo career by releasing his debut album, The J, which was celebrated during two sold-out shows in Oakland. The city declared November 8 "Juan Escovedo Day," as former Mayor Libby Schaaf presented him with a proclamation. The album offers a masterfully crafted sound, with an orchestra of seasoned musicians promising to elevate listeners’ souls. The first single, “Angel,” features singer-songwriter El DeBarge alongside Martin Kember from Color Me Badd, while Raphael Saadiq and Eddie M contribute their talents to two tracks each. All seven music videos from the album are available on Juan Escovedo's YouTube channel.

Juan wrote and arranged all the songs on THE J, collaborating closely with musician Michael Angel Alvarado. His music video for "Fly Again" features the Curtis Family C-Notes and vocalist Leah Tysse. Throughout his career, Juan has made notable appearances in film and television and has been a prominent figure in the music industry.

In recognition of his family's enduring impact, Oakland honored the Escovedo family during Hispanic Heritage Month in September 2023. On January 14, 2024, the city unveiled Escovedo Way, celebrating their legacy in the neighborhood where they once lived.