Shakira, the Colombian superstar, has captivated audiences worldwide with her mesmerizing voice, electrifying performances, and irresistible charisma. With a career spanning over two decades, she has amassed an impressive repertoire of hits that have left an indelible mark on the music industry. In this article, we delve into the top 10 best Shakira songs of all time, celebrating her unique blend of pop, rock, and Latin influences. From chart-topping anthems to soul-stirring ballads, each song on this list showcases Shakira’s unparalleled talent as a singer-songwriter and her ability to connect with listeners on a profound level. Let’s embark on a journey through her greatest musical achievements.
1. Whenever, Wherever
“Whenever, Wherever” stands as one of Shakira’s most iconic tracks, catapulting her into global stardom and securing its place as one of the topmost popular songs in her repertoire. Released in 2001 as part of her breakthrough album “Laundry Service,” the song blends infectious Latin rhythms with Shakira’s distinctive vocals and empowering lyrics.
Its catchy chorus and irresistible melody captured the hearts of millions worldwide, earning it widespread acclaim and numerous awards, including a Grammy nomination. The song’s music video, featuring Shakira dancing amidst diverse landscapes, further cemented its cultural impact and solidified her status as an international sensation.
“Whenever, Wherever” transcends linguistic barriers, with its blend of Spanish and English lyrics resonating with listeners across the globe. Its message of love, freedom, and spontaneity struck a chord with audiences of all ages, making it a timeless anthem that continues to captivate listeners years after its release.
From its chart-topping success to its enduring popularity in pop culture, “Whenever, Wherever” remains a quintessential Shakira masterpiece, celebrated for its infectious energy and unwavering influence on music lovers worldwide.
2. La Tortura (feat. Alejandro Sanz)
“La Tortura,” featuring Alejandro Sanz, is an electrifying collaboration that stands as one of Shakira’s most popular and impactful songs of all time. Released in 2005 as part of her album “Fijación Oral Vol. 1,” this fiery Latin pop track immediately captivated audiences with its irresistible rhythm and passionate vocals.
The song’s lyrics delve into themes of heartbreak and resilience, depicting the emotional turmoil of a tumultuous relationship. Shakira’s powerful delivery, combined with Alejandro Sanz’s soulful vocals, creates a dynamic interplay that elevates the song to new heights of intensity and emotion.
“La Tortura” dominated the charts upon its release, earning critical acclaim and numerous accolades, including Latin Grammy Awards for Record of the Year and Song of the Year. Its music video, featuring Shakira and Sanz in a dramatic and sensual narrative, further intensified its impact, becoming a cultural phenomenon watched by millions around the world.
With its infectious beat and raw emotion, “La Tortura” has become a timeless classic in Shakira’s discography, beloved by fans for its irresistible energy and heartfelt lyrics. It continues to resonate with listeners, serving as a testament to Shakira’s enduring talent and her ability to connect with audiences on a deeply personal level.
3. She Wolf
“She Wolf” emerges as a bold and boundary-pushing anthem in Shakira’s repertoire, earning its place among her most popular and distinctive songs of all time. Released in 2009 as the lead single from her album of the same name, “She Wolf” showcases Shakira’s fearless experimentation with electronic beats and unconventional sounds.
The song’s infectious melody and hypnotic rhythm draw listeners in from the first note, while Shakira’s seductive vocals and playful lyrics add layers of intrigue and allure. “She Wolf” explores themes of liberation and self-discovery, with Shakira embracing her inner wildness and celebrating female empowerment.
The song’s innovative music video, featuring Shakira in various surreal and captivating scenarios, further solidified its impact and earned praise for its artistic creativity. With its striking visuals and infectious energy, “She Wolf” became a global sensation, topping charts around the world and earning critical acclaim for its boldness and originality.
A testament to Shakira’s fearlessness as an artist, “She Wolf” continues to captivate audiences with its daring sound and unapologetic attitude. Its lasting popularity and influence highlight Shakira’s ability to push boundaries and redefine the landscape of pop music, cementing its status as one of her most iconic and enduring hits.
4. Underneath Your Clothes
“Underneath Your Clothes” emerges as a tender and heartfelt ballad, marking a poignant departure from Shakira’s signature upbeat sound while showcasing her versatility and emotional depth as an artist. Released in 2002 as part of her album “Laundry Service,” this soulful track quickly captured the hearts of listeners around the world with its touching lyrics and melodic beauty.
The song’s heartfelt lyrics express deep admiration and affection, as Shakira sings about cherishing the inner beauty and vulnerability of her loved one. With its gentle acoustic guitar melody and Shakira’s emotive vocals, “Underneath Your Clothes” creates an intimate and evocative atmosphere that resonates with audiences on a deeply personal level.
The music video for “Underneath Your Clothes” further amplifies the song’s emotional impact, featuring Shakira in a simple yet intimate setting that mirrors the song’s themes of love and connection. Through its understated beauty and sincerity, the video perfectly complements the song’s message, creating a visual representation of the profound bond shared between two people.
“Underneath Your Clothes” soared to the top of the charts upon its release, earning widespread acclaim and solidifying Shakira’s reputation as a masterful storyteller and vocalist. Its enduring popularity and timeless appeal continue to touch the hearts of listeners, making it a beloved classic in Shakira’s illustrious discography.
5. Can’t Remember to Forget You (feat. Rihanna)
“Can’t Remember to Forget You,” featuring Rihanna, is a dynamic and electrifying collaboration that showcases the powerhouse vocals and infectious energy of two of pop music’s biggest stars. Released in 2014 as the lead single from Shakira’s self-titled album, this sizzling track immediately made waves with its irresistible blend of rock, reggae, and Latin influences.
The song’s catchy melody and pulsating rhythm create an undeniable groove, while Shakira and Rihanna’s vocal performances exude confidence and sensuality. Lyrically, “Can’t Remember to Forget You” explores the struggle to move on from a past love, with Shakira and Rihanna’s dynamic vocals conveying both vulnerability and strength.
The accompanying music video, featuring Shakira and Rihanna in a series of sultry and playful scenes, further amplified the song’s impact and generated widespread buzz. Their undeniable chemistry and fierce personas captivated audiences, solidifying “Can’t Remember to Forget You” as an instant hit.
With its infectious hook and dynamic production, “Can’t Remember to Forget You” became a chart-topping success around the world, earning critical acclaim for its boldness and originality. The song’s enduring popularity and influence highlight the dynamic synergy between Shakira and Rihanna, making it a standout moment in both of their illustrious careers.
6. Loca (feat. Dizzee Rascal)
“Loca,” featuring Dizzee Rascal, is a high-energy and infectious anthem that showcases Shakira’s signature fusion of Latin and pop influences with a touch of urban flair. Released in 2010 as the lead single from her album “Sale el Sol,” this vibrant track immediately captivated audiences with its irresistible rhythm and catchy hooks.
The song’s lyrics celebrate the carefree spirit of living in the moment and embracing spontaneity, with Shakira’s dynamic vocals exuding confidence and sass. Dizzee Rascal’s rap verse adds an extra layer of swagger to the track, elevating its urban appeal and giving it a fresh edge.
“Loca” is characterized by its infectious beat and lively instrumentation, featuring a blend of reggae, merengue, and hip-hop elements that create an electrifying sonic experience. The song’s music video, shot in various locations around Barcelona, captures the vibrant energy of the track, with Shakira showcasing her signature dance moves amidst colorful street scenes and bustling crowds.
Upon its release, “Loca” became an instant hit, topping charts around the world and earning critical acclaim for its infectious energy and irresistible charm. The song’s enduring popularity and timeless appeal solidify its status as one of Shakira’s most iconic and beloved tracks, celebrated for its infectious groove and undeniable charisma.
7. Chantaje (feat. Maluma)
“Chantaje,” featuring Maluma, is a sizzling collaboration that exemplifies Shakira’s ability to blend her Latin roots with contemporary pop sensibilities. Released in 2016 as a lead single from her album “El Dorado,” this reggaeton-infused track immediately made waves with its infectious beat and sultry lyrics.
The song’s title, which translates to “Blackmail” in English, sets the tone for its playful and seductive narrative. Shakira and Maluma’s chemistry is palpable as they trade verses, their smooth vocals complementing each other perfectly against the backdrop of the song’s rhythmic production.
“Chantaje” is characterized by its irresistible hook and dynamic instrumentation, blending elements of reggaeton with electronic beats to create a pulsating groove that’s impossible to resist. The accompanying music video, featuring Shakira and Maluma in a steamy and stylish visual narrative, further amplifies the song’s sensual appeal, captivating viewers with its vibrant imagery and infectious energy.
Upon its release, “Chantaje” became an instant hit, dominating airwaves and topping charts around the world. Its success solidified Shakira’s status as one of the most influential artists in the Latin music scene and showcased her ability to continually evolve her sound while staying true to her roots. With its undeniable charm and irresistible allure, “Chantaje” remains a standout moment in Shakira’s illustrious career, celebrated for its infectious groove and undeniable charisma.
8. Objection (Tango)
“Objection (Tango)” is a fiery and electrifying track that showcases Shakira’s versatility and creativity as an artist. Released in 2001 as a single from her album “Laundry Service,” this song blends elements of rock, pop, and traditional Argentine tango to create a truly unique and captivating sound.
The song’s lyrics convey a sense of defiance and passion as Shakira sings about a tumultuous relationship and her refusal to be controlled or confined. Her raw and emotive vocals are complemented by the song’s energetic instrumentation, which features dramatic guitar riffs and infectious tango rhythms.
“Objection (Tango)” is characterized by its infectious energy and theatrical flair, with Shakira’s dynamic performance captivating listeners from start to finish. The accompanying music video further enhances the song’s impact, featuring Shakira in a series of dramatic and visually stunning scenes that mirror the song’s themes of love and conflict.
Upon its release, “Objection (Tango)” received widespread acclaim from critics and audiences alike, earning praise for its boldness and originality. Its success solidified Shakira’s reputation as a trailblazing artist who fearlessly pushes boundaries and defies expectations. With its infectious melody and undeniable charisma, “Objection (Tango)” remains a standout track in Shakira’s extensive discography, celebrated for its electrifying energy and timeless appeal.
9. Hips Don’t Lie (feat. Wyclef Jean)
“Hips Don’t Lie,” featuring Wyclef Jean, stands as one of Shakira’s most iconic and infectious tracks, beloved for its irresistible rhythm and energetic performance. Released in 2006 as a single from her album “Oral Fixation, Vol. 2,” this Latin-infused dance anthem quickly became a global sensation, dominating airwaves and dance floors around the world.
The song’s infectious beat and catchy melody immediately captivate listeners, while Shakira’s dynamic vocals and Wyclef Jean’s rap verses add layers of excitement and flair. Lyrically, “Hips Don’t Lie” celebrates the power and sensuality of dance, with Shakira’s iconic declaration of “hips don’t lie” becoming an instant catchphrase.
The accompanying music video, featuring Shakira showcasing her signature belly-dancing moves alongside Wyclef Jean, further amplified the song’s impact, earning praise for its vibrant energy and infectious choreography.
Upon its release, “Hips Don’t Lie” topped charts in numerous countries and became one of the best-selling singles of the 21st century. Its enduring popularity and timeless appeal have solidified its status as a cultural phenomenon, with Shakira’s electrifying performance and undeniable charisma making it a standout moment in her illustrious career. With its irresistible groove and universal appeal, “Hips Don’t Lie” remains a quintessential Shakira classic, celebrated for its ability to get people dancing and smiling every time it plays.
10. Waka Waka (This Time for Africa)
“Waka Waka (This Time for Africa)” is a vibrant and uplifting anthem that transcends borders and languages, capturing the spirit of unity and celebration. Released in 2010 as the official song for the FIFA World Cup in South Africa, this track became an instant global phenomenon, resonating with audiences around the world with its infectious beat and empowering message.
The song’s catchy melody and rhythmic percussion evoke the vibrant energy of African music, while Shakira’s dynamic vocals infuse the track with a sense of joy and optimism. Lyrically, “Waka Waka” celebrates the power of perseverance and resilience, encouraging listeners to overcome challenges and embrace their inner strength.
The accompanying music video, featuring Shakira dancing amidst colorful and diverse scenes from across Africa, further amplifies the song’s message of unity and solidarity. With its infectious choreography and uplifting imagery, the video became a viral sensation, garnering millions of views and spreading a message of hope and positivity.
Upon its release, “Waka Waka” topped charts around the world and became one of the best-selling singles of all time. Its enduring popularity and timeless appeal have solidified its status as a global anthem for unity and celebration, with Shakira’s infectious energy and heartfelt vocals making it a standout moment in her illustrious career. With its universal message of joy and resilience, “Waka Waka” continues to inspire and uplift listeners of all ages, reaffirming its place as one of Shakira’s most iconic and beloved songs.
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.
