(Image: Hispanicize)

Sheila Escovedo, widely known as Sheila E., is celebrating her 40^th year in music. The 56-year-old musician is being awarded the “Latinovator” award during Hispanicize 2014, which will be held in Miami (April 1-4).

“Sheila E.’s countless achievements in music and film industries make her a standout entertainer who has lasted the test of time,” said Manny Ruiz, organizer and creative director of Hispanicize 2014, in an announcement about her award, according to Fox News Latino. “Like other Latino visionaries, Sheila E. embodies what a crossover star is. Her achievements have opened doors for many aspiring Latinas, artists and actors.”

Sheila E. joins 2013 Latinovator alums Soledad O’Brien, Rita Moreno, Emilio Estefan and others. Altogether Hispanicize 2014 will name 6 recipients in total for the Latinovator Awards. Each of the innovators will be presented with their awards individually, and in person, at Hispanicize. She will headline the “Latinas Who Rock” closing party.

The singer/songwriter/producer is marking her 40th year in the music biz with a new CD, “Icon,” to be released March 24. Later this year, Simon & Schuster is releasing her autobiography, “The Beat of My Own Drum.”