Emilio Castillo, born on September 24, 1950, in Detroit, Michigan, is an American saxophone player, composer, and founder of the renowned soul and funk band Tower of Power.

Of Mexican and Greek heritage, his early life in Detroit was marked by a pivotal moment when he and his brother were caught stealing, leading their father to encourage them to find a constructive outlet, which set Emilio on the path of music.

He took lessons in saxophone, piano, guitar, and music theory and began his musical career as a keyboard player in a band called The Gotham City Crimefighters. Inspired by the Bay Area soul band The Spyders, he switched his focus to saxophone and formed The Motowns, a group that played soul music covers. 

Meeting baritone saxophonist Stephen "Doc" Kupka was a turning point, leading him to shift the band towards original material and rename it Tower of Power. The band released their first album, "East Bay Grease," in 1970 and has since become famous for their horn-driven sound and hits such as "You're Still a Young Man," "What is Hip?", and "Soul with a Capital 'S'."

He has been the band's leader and second tenor saxophonist throughout its history, also contributing background and lead vocals. Throughout his career, he has worked with numerous notable artists, contributed to recordings for José Feliciano, Carlos Santana, and Luis Miguel, and has been involved in music production and songwriting.

Known for his soulful sound and commanding leadership, he has balanced a prolific career spanning more than five decades.