Shakira, the Colombian powerhouse of talent, has undeniably left an indelible mark on the global music scene. With her unique blend of Latin, rock, and pop elements, she has crafted an eclectic and vibrant discography that resonates with audiences worldwide. Since bursting onto the international stage in the late 1990s, Shakira has continually evolved as an artist, seamlessly blending linguistic and cultural boundaries in her music. Her ability to write and perform songs that combine complex lyrical narratives with infectious rhythms has garnered her millions of fans across the globe. From the raw emotional depth of her ballads to the high-energy beats of her dance anthems, Shakira’s versatility as a songwriter and performer is unmatched. Her iconic tracks not only showcase her distinctive vocal stylings and innovative musical fusion but also reflect her personal journey and the socio-political landscapes of the times. This article aims to celebrate Shakira’s illustrious career by diving into the Top 10 Best Shakira Songs of All Time. Each song selected for this list represents a milestone in her career, highlighting her artistic growth and the impact she has had on the music industry and beyond. From early hits that introduced her to the world stage to recent chart-toppers that continue to showcase her relevance and artistry, these songs exemplify the best of Shakira’s musical prowess and her enduring appeal as a global superstar. Join us as we explore the melodies, rhythms, and stories behind these unforgettable tracks, providing insight into why they have resonated so deeply with audiences and secured Shakira’s place in music history.
1. Objection (Tango)
Shakira’s magnetic blend of pop, rock, and Latin influences is epitomized in her chart-topping hit “Objection (Tango).” Released in 2002 as part of her groundbreaking album “Laundry Service,” the song is a sonic journey that fuses the fiery energy of tango with Shakira’s signature powerhouse vocals. The track’s pulsating rhythm and infectious melody create an exhilarating dance-floor anthem, showcasing Shakira’s ability to seamlessly bridge diverse musical genres. “Objection (Tango)” is not just a song; it’s a testament to Shakira’s fearless approach to pushing musical boundaries, earning its place as one of her most iconic and enduring tracks.
The song’s lyrical narrative also stands out, as Shakira fearlessly explores themes of heartbreak and unbridled passion. With its evocative lyrics and dynamic instrumentation, “Objection (Tango)” captivates listeners with its raw emotion and undeniable charisma. This timeless masterpiece has secured its spot as one of Shakira’s best songs of all time, celebrated for its innovation, artistic depth, and the infectious energy that only Shakira can bring to the global music stage. In the realm of Shakira’s extensive discography, “Objection (Tango)” remains a testament to her artistic prowess and continues to be a cherished gem among fans worldwide.
2. Chantaje (feat. Maluma)
“Chantaje,” featuring the reggaeton sensation Maluma, stands out as one of Shakira’s top hits, showcasing her ability to seamlessly collaborate across genres. Released in 2016 as a lead single from her album “El Dorado,” the song immediately became a global sensation, blending Shakira’s distinctive voice with Maluma’s urban flair. The infectious reggaeton beat, combined with the artists’ undeniable chemistry, makes “Chantaje” an irresistible anthem that transcends linguistic and cultural barriers.
The song’s lyrics, a playful dialogue between Shakira and Maluma, explore the dynamics of seduction and desire, adding a layer of intrigue to the already compelling track. With its pulsating rhythm, catchy chorus, and sizzling vocal performances, “Chantaje” has become a staple in both Latin and international music scenes. This collaboration not only underscores Shakira’s versatility as an artist but also solidifies her ability to stay at the forefront of evolving musical trends. “Chantaje” remains a testament to Shakira’s enduring appeal and her knack for creating magnetic hits that resonate with audiences around the globe.
3. Loca (feat. Dizzee Rascal)
“Loca,” featuring the dynamic collaboration with British rapper Dizzee Rascal, is a standout track in Shakira’s repertoire. Released in 2010 as part of her bilingual album “Sale el Sol,” the song immediately captured audiences with its infectious energy and cross-cultural appeal. Fusing elements of Latin, dance, and hip-hop, “Loca” is a vibrant celebration of rhythmic diversity that showcases Shakira’s ability to effortlessly navigate diverse genres.
The song’s upbeat tempo and lively instrumentation create an irresistible party atmosphere, inviting listeners to embrace the carefree spirit embedded in the lyrics. With Dizzee Rascal’s energetic contribution, “Loca” became a global phenomenon, solidifying its status as one of Shakira’s best songs. The accompanying music video, featuring Shakira’s spirited dance moves, further amplifies the song’s vivacity and has become iconic in its own right. “Loca” exemplifies Shakira’s prowess in crafting cross-genre hits that resonate with a broad audience, making it a timeless addition to her impressive musical legacy. With its infectious rhythm and carefree vibe, “Loca” remains a testament to Shakira’s ability to create music that transcends cultural boundaries and continues to be a source of joy for fans worldwide.
4. Can’t Remember to Forget You (feat. Rihanna)
“Can’t Remember to Forget You,” featuring a sizzling collaboration with pop sensation Rihanna, is a highlight in Shakira’s extensive discography. Released in 2014 as the lead single from her self-titled album, the song showcases a dynamic blend of rock and reggae influences, bringing together two global superstars in a musical match made in heaven. The track’s unforgettable guitar riffs and rhythmic beats create a powerful backdrop for the sultry vocals of Shakira and Rihanna, resulting in an instant chart-topper.
The lyrics of “Can’t Remember to Forget You” explore the complexities of love and the struggle to move on from a past relationship. The song’s catchy chorus and infectious melody contribute to its widespread popularity, earning it a place among Shakira’s most memorable collaborations. The accompanying music video, featuring the two divas engaged in playful and provocative scenes, added to the song’s allure and cemented its status as a cultural phenomenon. With its genre-defying sound and powerhouse vocal performances, “Can’t Remember to Forget You” remains an iconic moment in Shakira’s career, showcasing her ability to reinvent her musical style while delivering a chart-topping hit that resonates with fans across the globe.
5. Underneath Your Clothes
“Underneath Your Clothes” is a timeless ballad that showcases a softer and more vulnerable side of Shakira’s musical repertoire. Released in 2002 as part of her album “Laundry Service,” the song stands out for its emotive lyrics and heartfelt melody. The track beautifully captures the essence of love and intimacy, with Shakira’s evocative vocals taking center stage.
The lyrics of “Underneath Your Clothes” express a deep sense of admiration and love, celebrating the beauty that lies beyond physical appearances. The song’s simplicity and sincerity resonate with listeners, making it a classic love anthem that has endured over the years. Shakira’s delivery is both tender and powerful, creating a heartfelt connection with the audience. The acoustic arrangement complements the emotional depth of the lyrics, allowing Shakira’s voice to shine.
“Underneath Your Clothes” is a departure from Shakira’s more energetic and dance-infused hits, yet it remains a standout in her discography, showcasing her versatility as an artist. The song’s enduring popularity is a testament to Shakira’s ability to connect with listeners on a profound emotional level, making it an essential entry in the collection of her best and most cherished songs.
6. She Wolf
“She Wolf,” released in 2009 as the lead single from Shakira’s album of the same name, is a sonic exploration that pushes the boundaries of pop and dance music. The song showcases Shakira’s daring approach to experimentation, featuring a pulsating electro-pop sound with infectious beats and a howling chorus. With its distinctive synthesizers and Shakira’s unmistakable vocal style, “She Wolf” became an instant anthem that captivated fans worldwide.
The lyrics of “She Wolf” delve into themes of liberation and self-discovery, as Shakira embraces her wild and untamed side. The accompanying music video, featuring Shakira’s mesmerizing dance moves and striking visuals, further emphasized the song’s bold and avant-garde aesthetic. “She Wolf” not only became a commercial success but also solidified Shakira’s reputation as an artist unafraid to venture into uncharted musical territories.
The song’s infectious energy, combined with its avant-garde production and Shakira’s charismatic performance, makes “She Wolf” a standout track in her discography. It remains a testament to Shakira’s ability to evolve her sound while maintaining a magnetic connection with her audience, securing its place as one of her top and most innovative songs to date.
7. La Tortura (feat. Alejandro Sanz)
“La Tortura,” a collaboration between Shakira and Spanish singer-songwriter Alejandro Sanz, is a powerful and emotionally charged song that resonated globally. Released in 2005 as part of Shakira’s album “Fijación Oral, Vol. 1,” the track seamlessly blends Latin and Middle Eastern influences, creating a distinctive and captivating sound. The song’s title, translating to “The Torture” in English, hints at the intense emotional narrative that unfolds in the lyrics.
The duet explores the theme of heartbreak and the anguish of a failed relationship, with Shakira and Sanz delivering poignant performances that convey the depth of the emotional turmoil. The fusion of their voices, accompanied by a rich musical arrangement, adds to the dramatic and haunting atmosphere of “La Tortura.” The song’s success is not only attributed to its compelling lyrics and powerful vocals but also to the infectious rhythm that infuses it with a danceable energy.
The accompanying music video, featuring Shakira’s mesmerizing dance sequences and the chemistry between the two artists, contributed to the song’s widespread acclaim. “La Tortura” became a chart-topping hit and further established Shakira’s prowess as a cross-genre artist. With its emotional intensity and musical brilliance, “La Tortura” remains a standout and emotionally resonant entry in Shakira’s impressive catalog.
8. Whenever, Wherever
“Whenever, Wherever” catapulted Shakira to international superstardom when it was released in 2001 as the lead single from her fifth studio album, “Laundry Service.” The song is a spirited fusion of Andean folk influences and contemporary pop-rock, creating a global anthem that transcended language barriers. The infectious melody, driven by a distinctive pan-flute riff, and Shakira’s distinctive voice contributed to the song’s massive success.
The lyrics of “Whenever, Wherever” reflect themes of love and freedom, and the chorus’s iconic refrain became an anthem of empowerment. The accompanying music video, featuring Shakira’s captivating belly-dancing and the breathtaking landscapes, added to the song’s visual appeal. The track’s energetic and uplifting vibe resonated with audiences worldwide, making it one of the best-selling singles of the 21st century.
“Whenever, Wherever” not only showcased Shakira’s ability to infuse her music with diverse cultural elements but also established her as a global pop sensation. The song’s enduring popularity and its impact on shaping the international pop music landscape solidify its place among Shakira’s most iconic and best-loved songs, continuing to be celebrated for its infectious energy and cross-cultural charm.
9. Waka Waka (This Time for Africa)
“Waka Waka (This Time for Africa)” is a jubilant anthem that became synonymous with the 2010 FIFA World Cup, held in South Africa. Shakira, alongside South African band Freshlyground, created this celebratory song that not only captured the spirit of the tournament but also left an indelible mark on global pop culture. Released as the official World Cup theme song, “Waka Waka” features a vibrant fusion of Afro-Colombian beats, traditional African rhythms, and Shakira’s unmistakable vocals.
The song’s lyrics convey themes of unity, celebration, and the power of sport to bring people together. The infectious chorus and the energetic production turned “Waka Waka” into a worldwide phenomenon, topping charts in numerous countries. The accompanying music video, featuring Shakira’s dynamic dance moves and scenes of joyous celebration, further amplified the song’s exuberant message.
Beyond its musical success, “Waka Waka” also became a symbol of international collaboration and solidarity, as it showcased Shakira’s commitment to global causes. The song’s positive and uplifting vibe, combined with its cultural richness, has secured its place as one of Shakira’s most iconic and memorable songs, leaving an enduring legacy beyond the realm of sports and music.
10. Hips Don’t Lie (feat. Wyclef Jean)
“Hips Don’t Lie,” featuring the collaboration with Wyclef Jean, stands as one of Shakira’s most iconic and commercially successful tracks. Released in 2006 as a single from her album “Oral Fixation, Vol. 2,” the song quickly became a global sensation, blending infectious Latin rhythms with hip-hop elements. The track’s undeniable energy, driven by Shakira’s dynamic vocals and Wyclef Jean’s rap verses, turned it into a dancefloor favorite and a chart-topping hit.
The song’s title became a catchphrase, and its lyrics celebrate the mesmerizing power of dance and the sensuality of movement. With its distinctive trumpet riff, “Hips Don’t Lie” pays homage to traditional Colombian and African music, showcasing Shakira’s ability to seamlessly integrate diverse influences into her sound. The track’s success was further solidified by its memorable and vibrant music video, featuring Shakira’s iconic belly-dancing and charismatic stage presence.
“Hips Don’t Lie” not only dominated the charts but also earned critical acclaim, with its infectious rhythm and catchy melody becoming synonymous with Shakira’s brand. The song’s enduring popularity and cultural impact make it a cornerstone in Shakira’s illustrious career, marking a defining moment where her music transcended borders and brought people together on dancefloors worldwide.
Samuel Moore 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.
