Shakira is a Colombian singer, songwriter, and dancer who has captivated audiences worldwide with her unique blend of Latin pop, rock, and dance music. Born Shakira Isabel Mebarak Ripoll on February 2, 1977, in Barranquilla, Colombia, she began her musical career at a young age and gained international recognition with her breakthrough album “Pies Descalzos” in 1995.
Known for her distinctive voice, hypnotic belly dancing, and infectious energy, Shakira’s music transcends language barriers and cultures. Her ability to seamlessly incorporate elements of different genres, including Arabic and Colombian rhythms, has contributed to her global appeal. Her songs often address themes of love, empowerment, and social issues.
Shakira’s success extends beyond the music charts. As a philanthropist and advocate, she has been actively involved in various charitable causes, particularly those related to education and child welfare. She founded the Pies Descalzos Foundation, which focuses on providing quality education to underprivileged children in Colombia.
With numerous awards, including Grammy Awards and Billboard Music Awards, Shakira has become one of the most successful Latin artists of all time. Her iconic hits like “Whenever, Wherever,” “Hips Don’t Lie,” and “Waka Waka (This Time for Africa)” have dominated the charts and become anthems that resonate with fans around the world.
Shakira’s magnetic stage presence, powerful vocals, and infectious rhythms have made her a global superstar. Her ability to bridge cultures and unite diverse audiences through her music is a testament to her artistry and universal appeal. Shakira’s impact on the music industry and her contributions to philanthropy have solidified her status as an iconic figure and a true ambassador of Latin music.
1. “Beautiful Liar” with Beyonce
This collaboration between Shakira and Beyonce showcases their beautiful vocals in "Astonishing Deceiver." With its catchy chorus and funky beats, the song became an instant hit. The music video was a treat to watch, with both artists displaying electric moves and fashion sense.
Furthermore, the track earned a Grammy nomination for Best Pop Collaboration with Vocals.
It's admirable how these two powerhouses of Latin pop can come together and create magic on a global stage.
Fun Fact: "Beautiful Liar" was initially written for Beyoncé's album B'day but later added as a bonus track on Shakira's Oral Fixation Vol. 2.
Even if you try, your hips won't lie that this collaboration between Shakira and Wyclef Jean is a chart-topping hit.
2. “Hips Don’t Lie (feat. Wyclef Jean)”
This hit song, featuring Wyclef Jean, is one of the most recognizable Shakira anthems ever produced. With its contagious rhythm and trademark vocals, “Hips Don’t Lie” became an instant classic upon its release in 2006. Fusing reggaeton and Latin pop with a catchy melody and irresistible beat, this track showcases Shakira’s abilities as both a songwriter and performer. The lyrics are also imbued with her unique wit and personality, making for a memorable listening experience.
Fans around the world agree that “Hips Don’t Lie” is truly iconic. Over one billion views on YouTube alone are a testament to its appeal. Moreover, the song has won numerous awards and accolades since its debut, cementing its place as one of Shakira’s best offerings.
Fun fact: The song also features Shakira’s signature belly dance moves, further showcasing her immense talent as a multi-faceted artist.
Pro Tip: To fully appreciate “Hips Don’t Lie,” create your own dance routine or practice your belly dance skills while listening to the track!
Shakira teaches us geography and that hips really don't lie in this global hit that we'll be dancing to 'whenever, wherever'.
3. “Whenever, Wherever”
This chart-topping hit from Shakira's seventh studio album, Laundry Service, has become one of her most iconic songs to date. The upbeat pop track features her signature belly-dancing and lyrics that encourage listeners to embrace life and live in the moment. Its success could be attributed to its multilingual lyrics, with verses in both English and Spanish. The song was released in 2001 and quickly became an international sensation, propelling Shakira into global super-stardom. Its music video, which showcased Shakira's unique dance moves, also played a significant role in its success.
Shakira proves that lingerie isn't the only thing that goes underneath your clothes in this soulful ballad.
4. “Underneath Your Clothes”
This track by Shakira explores the depths of love and desire, serving as an ode to the affection shared between two individuals. “Underneath Your Clothes” showcases Shakira's vocal prowess and range, backed by a melody that is simple yet memorable. It captures the essence of intimacy and adoration, with heartfelt lyrics that resonate with listeners.
The song originally premiered on her Laundry Service album in 2001 and quickly became one of her most recognizable hits. It also went on to chart strongly worldwide, including topping charts in Spain, Italy, and Canada. The acoustic version of this song highlights the raw emotions portrayed within the lyrics.
What sets this track apart from other popular love songs is its underlying theme of vulnerability. Shakira's words speak to a level of openness and honesty that is often not expressed in mainstream music. She delves into the idea of being truly intimate with someone, both emotionally and physically.
According to Billboard chart records, this song peaked at number nine on the Hot 100s chart in 2002 making it one of her most successful songs ever.
Credit: Billboard.com
Shakira's 'She Wolf' makes us all howl with excitement and question whether we too could pull off that fringe jacket.
5. “She Wolf”
This Shakira masterpiece, known to fans and critics alike as a "Feral Anthem", showcases Shakira’s vocal range and modern dance abilities. "She Wolf" lures you in with its trance-like beats and never lets go, leaving you feeling electrified. This song earned her a lot of attention, received numerous awards and accolades, and was a commercial success worldwide. With incredible choreography that's out-of-the-box and futuristic, this hit is iconic amongst Shakira fans.
For those who are unfamiliar with Shakira’s music style or vibe, 'She Wolf' serves as a perfect starting point due to its unbeatable energy and catchy tunes. The unique sound patterns combined with Shakira's eclectic voice create an unmatched auditory experience that showcases what the Colombian singer can do when at her creative peak.
This song features elements of electro-pop, dance-pop, indie-pop & cumbia-reggaeton rhythm that creates an interesting musical blend. The amalgamation of different genres allows for diverse interpretations by varied demographics around the world.
Pro Tip: If you're looking for fresh music inspiration or love to groove on the dance floor then look no further than ‘She Wolf’. Turn up the volume high enough to feel the beats vibrate through your soul!
Shakira and Rihanna team up to create a song so catchy, you won't be able to forget even if you tried – which ironically goes against the title.
6. “Can’t Remember to Forget You (feat. Rihanna)”
This chart-topping Shakira song features a collaboration with Rihanna and ranks sixth on the list of "10 Best Shakira Songs of All Time." The lyrics depict the struggles of trying to move on from a past love, but being unable to forget them. The iconic music video sees Shakira and Rihanna seductively dancing together while surrounded by an eclectic mix of scenes and backdrops, making it a visually appealing piece of art.
Fun fact: This was the first time Shakira and Rihanna worked together on a track.
Pro Tip: Add this catchy tune to your listening playlist for those days when you need a reminder that missing someone is okay but dwelling on the past can hold you back from moving forward.
Listening to 'La Tortura' makes me feel like I'm the one being tortured, but in a good way.
7. “La Tortura (feat. Alejandro Sanz)”
This amazing song by Shakira is "La Tortura" which features the talented Alejandro Sanz. The single was released in 2005 and it's believed to have contributed significantly to Shakira's massive success around the world. With its catchy beat, combined with Shakira's fiery vocals, and Sanz's Latin touch, this song tells a passionate story of heartbreak and longing for love. It's a great fusion of pop and salsa music which makes it stand out from other songs in the genre.
Shakira wrote the lyrics, alongside Luis Fernando Ochoa, and they made an excellent job of bringing out emotions through them. You can't resist singing along when you hear it being played on the radio or any other musical platform. It has received over 500 million views on YouTube since its release, which indicates how popular it is among music lovers worldwide.
In an era where women weren't celebrated enough in music industries, Shakira broke down all odds to become one of the best artists of our time. She has influenced many young women who aspire for greatness in life, and inspire them that they have what it takes to reach their dreams.
It would be impossible to talk about top Shakira songs without mentioning 'La Tortura'. If you haven't listened to it yet, you might want to check it out because you're missing out on something big!
Shakira and Lil Wayne team up for a powerhouse duo that'll make you want to give it up to them.
8. “Give It Up To Me (feat. Lil Wayne)”
This collaboration between Shakira and Lil Wayne produced "Give It Up To Me," one of the best Shakira songs ever. The track is a catchy dance number that showcases the unique vocal range of Shakira, with Lil Wayne adding his rap verse to give it a dynamic edge.
The song was released in 2009 as the second single from Shakira's album 'She Wolf.' The lyrics are sensual, but not overtly explicit and have elements of feminine power, urging women to take charge in the bedroom. The music video features both artists performing in an industrial setting, with Shakira flaunting her moves in a black outfit.
Despite mixed reviews from critics at release, "Give It Up To Me" became a chart-topping hit across Europe and Latin America. It also showcased Shakira's ability to collaborate with different artists and create a unique sound.
If you're looking for something new, exciting or sensual from Shakira's discography while having some fun on the dance floor or your partner's embrace, this is one of the songs you cannot miss. Shakira goes loca, and we can't help but join in with Dizzee Rascal's catchy rap.
9. “Loca (feat. Dizzee Rascal)”
This upbeat, genre-bending track featuring Dizzee Rascal is among Shakira's best works. With its fusion of Latin and hip-hop beats, the song topped international charts and garnered critical acclaim. The dynamic collaboration between Shakira and Dizzee Rascal added a fresh perspective to the catchy chorus.
The music video showcases the infectious energy of the track, featuring Shakira dancing through the streets of Barcelona while drawing attention from passersby. The multilingual lyrics reflect Shakira's cultural background and her ability to blend different styles seamlessly.
Whether you're familiar with Shakira's other work or not, “Loca (feat. Dizzee Rascal)” is sure to get your feet tapping and your body moving. Join millions of listeners worldwide and add this chart-topping track to your playlist today.
Don't miss out on experiencing one of Shakira's most popular songs to date. Get lost in the rhythm and let "Loca (feat. Dizzee Rascal)" transport you to energetic new heights.
Shakira proves she can conquer the world with this catchy jam that'll have you dancing like a Piqued peacock.
10. “Waka Waka (This Time For Africa) [feat. Freshlyground]”
Shakira's song featuring Freshlyground, full of African energy and catchy beats, has secured its place among her best. Its music video features her signature moves and highlights the spirit of football. The song was the official song for the 2010 FIFA World Cup and became a worldwide sensation. The fusion of Shakira's Latin pop with African influences made it stand out from her other tracks.
Following this, Shakira's "Hips Don't Lie" was another groundbreaking hit that topped charts globally and earned her numerous awards. It had an infectious melody combined with meaningful lyrics that portrayed female empowerment.
To add to that, "Whenever, Wherever" marked Shakira's crossover into the English-speaking market. This track showcased some iconic belly dancing moves along with great songwriting. Notably, she sang in both Spanish and English to reflect her Latin roots.
Pro Tip: If you're looking for some globally acclaimed pop music packed with world rhythms and meaningful lyrics, listen to Shakira's discography.
Edward Tomlin is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
