Paula Abdul
Heartfelt Tribute To Cleto …
Late ‘Kimmel’ Band Leader
Published
Paula Abdul is remembering late “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” band leader Cleto Escobedo III of Cleto and the Cletones … honoring him with a heartfelt tribute post on social media.
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Cleto toured with Paula, as well as Earth, Wind and Fire, and had his own record deal before Jimmy got him on late-night TV … and Paula says Cleto’s “talent and energy were undeniable.”
Paula says she first met Cleto back in the day when he was playing saxophone at a small bar inside Caesars Palace in Las Vegas … and from the moment she heard him, she knew she had to hire him for her band.
She says she was putting together a band for her first world tour and knew Cleto needed to be involved … even though he didn’t have any touring experience at the time.
Cleto grew up in Las Vegas, where he was neighbors with Jimmy … and Jimmy fought hard for him to get a spot on “Jimmy Kimmel Live.”
As we reported … Jimmy announced Cleto’s death on Tuesday.
Paula says, “Cleto was pure light and soul, both on and off stage.”
In a recent social media post, Paula Abdul paid a heartfelt tribute to the late Cleto Escobedo III, the band leader of Cleto and the Cletones on “Jimmy Kimmel Live!”. Paula Abdul reminisced about her time touring with Cleto, Earth, Wind and Fire, and how Cleto’s undeniable talent and energy left a lasting impact on everyone around him.
Paula Abdul shared a personal anecdote about meeting Cleto for the first time at a small bar in Caesars Palace in Las Vegas. Despite Cleto’s lack of touring experience at the time, Paula knew she had to have him in her band for her world tour. Cleto’s musical abilities and stage presence were unmatched, making him a valuable addition to any musical ensemble.
Growing up as neighbors with Jimmy Kimmel in Las Vegas, Cleto had a close relationship with the late-night host who fought hard to bring him on board for “Jimmy Kimmel Live!”. Jimmy Kimmel’s recent announcement of Cleto’s passing has left a void in the music industry, with many mourning the loss of a talented musician and beloved friend.
Paula Abdul fondly remembered Cleto as a beacon of light and soul, both on and off the stage. His passion for music and infectious energy will continue to inspire those who had the privilege of knowing him. Cleto Escobedo III’s legacy as a musician and band leader will forever be cherished in the hearts of those who were touched by his music.
