Shakira, born Shakira Isabel Mebarak Ripoll on February 2, 1977, in Barranquilla, Colombia, is a globally renowned singer, songwriter, dancer, and philanthropist. Rising to fame in the Latin music scene in the early 1990s, Shakira achieved international success with her fifth studio album “Laundry Service” (2001), which featured the hit singles “Whenever, Wherever” and “Underneath Your Clothes.” Known for her distinctive voice, dynamic stage presence, and fusion of Latin, rock, and pop influences, Shakira has sold over 75 million records worldwide, making her one of the best-selling music artists of all time. Beyond music, Shakira is also recognized for her philanthropic work, particularly in the areas of education and child welfare through her Barefoot Foundation.
1. Whenever, Wherever
“Whenever, Wherever” is a smash hit by Shakira, released in 2001 as the lead single from her fifth studio album “Laundry Service.” The song is characterized by its infectious Latin pop sound, combining elements of Andean music with contemporary pop and rock influences. Lyrically, “Whenever, Wherever” explores themes of freedom, adventure, and the pursuit of love, with Shakira expressing a desire to seize the moment and live life to the fullest. The song’s catchy melody, irresistible rhythm, and Shakira’s distinctive vocals propelled it to the top of music charts worldwide, making it one of the best-selling singles of all time. Its accompanying music video, featuring Shakira dancing in various exotic locations, further contributed to its massive success and solidified Shakira’s status as an international superstar.
2. La Tortura (feat. Alejandro Sanz)
“La Tortura” is a chart-topping single by Shakira featuring Alejandro Sanz, released in 2005 from Shakira’s sixth studio album “Fijación Oral, Vol. 1.” Sung in Spanish, the song is a blend of Latin pop and reggaeton, featuring a catchy melody and a rhythmic beat. “La Tortura” explores themes of heartbreak, betrayal, and resilience, with Shakira expressing her pain and frustration over a failed relationship. Alejandro Sanz’s guest vocals add depth and emotion to the song, creating a powerful duet that resonated with audiences worldwide. “La Tortura” became a commercial success, reaching the top of music charts in numerous countries and earning critical acclaim for its infectious energy and passionate performance. Its accompanying music video, featuring Shakira and Sanz in a fiery dance-off, further contributed to its popularity and cemented its status as one of Shakira’s most iconic songs.
3. She Wolf
“She Wolf” is a dance-pop song by Shakira, released in 2009 as the lead single from her eighth studio album of the same name. The song showcases Shakira’s unique vocal style and combines elements of electronic and Middle Eastern music, creating a hypnotic and infectious track. Lyrically, “She Wolf” explores themes of female empowerment and freedom, with Shakira portraying herself as a confident and independent woman unafraid to embrace her wild side. The song’s catchy chorus and pulsating beat helped it achieve commercial success, topping charts in several countries and becoming a club anthem. Its music video, featuring Shakira dancing in a surreal desert landscape, further enhanced its popularity and solidified its status as one of Shakira’s signature songs.
4. Underneath Your Clothes
“Underneath Your Clothes” is a heartfelt ballad by Shakira, released in 2002 as the third single from her third studio album “Laundry Service.” The song is a departure from Shakira’s usual upbeat style, showcasing her softer side with its gentle melody and emotional lyrics. “Underneath Your Clothes” is a love song where Shakira expresses her admiration and affection for her partner, emphasizing the beauty she sees in their true essence rather than their outward appearance. The song’s heartfelt sentiment, combined with Shakira’s emotive vocals, resonated with listeners, earning it commercial success and critical acclaim. “Underneath Your Clothes” remains one of Shakira’s most beloved and enduring songs, cherished for its sincerity and romantic appeal.
5. Can’t Remember to Forget You (feat. Rihanna)
“Can’t Remember to Forget You” is a song by Shakira featuring Rihanna, released in 2014 as a single from Shakira’s self-titled album. Written by Shakira, Rihanna, John Hill, Tom Hull, and Daniel Alexander, the song is a lively blend of pop, rock, and reggae influences. It features upbeat guitar riffs, infectious rhythms, and the dynamic vocal performances of both Shakira and Rihanna. The lyrics explore themes of passionate love and the struggle to move on from a past relationship. “Can’t Remember to Forget You” received positive reviews for its catchy melody and the chemistry between Shakira and Rihanna, making it a chart-topping hit in several countries.
6. Loca (feat. Dizzee Rascal)
“Loca” is an energetic pop song by Shakira featuring British rapper Dizzee Rascal, released in 2010 as the lead single from her ninth studio album “Sale el Sol.” The song is a fusion of Latin, pop, and dancehall influences, featuring a lively beat and catchy melody. Lyrically, “Loca” celebrates living life to the fullest and embracing spontaneity and adventure. Dizzee Rascal’s guest verse adds an extra layer of energy to the song, complementing Shakira’s dynamic vocals. “Loca” was a commercial success, topping charts in several countries and becoming one of Shakira’s signature hits. Its accompanying music video, featuring Shakira dancing through the streets of Barcelona, further enhanced its popularity and cemented its status as a fan favorite.
7. Chantaje (feat. Maluma)
“Chantaje” is a song by Shakira featuring Maluma, released in 2016 as a single from Shakira’s album *El Dorado*. Written by Shakira, Maluma, Joel Antonio López Castro, Kevin Mauricio Jiménez Londoño, Bryan Snaider Lezcano Chaverra, and Juan Luis Londoño Arias (Maluma), the song is a reggaeton and Latin pop track infused with urban beats. “Chantaje” showcases Shakira and Maluma’s vocal chemistry and their playful exchange of verses that revolve around themes of seduction and attraction. The song became a commercial success, topping charts in multiple countries and solidifying Shakira and Maluma’s status as prominent figures in Latin music.
8. Objection (Tango)
“Objection (Tango)” is an electrifying song by Shakira, released in 2002 as the second single from her third studio album “Laundry Service.” The song is characterized by its fusion of rock and tango elements, featuring a pulsating beat, gritty guitars, and Shakira’s powerful vocals. Lyrically, “Objection (Tango)” explores themes of love, passion, and betrayal, with Shakira expressing defiance and anger towards a deceitful lover. The song’s infectious energy and dramatic flair captivated audiences, earning it commercial success and critical acclaim. Its music video, featuring Shakira engaging in a passionate tango dance with her lover, further enhanced its popularity and solidified its status as one of Shakira’s most iconic songs.
9. Hips Don’t Lie (feat. Wyclef Jean)
“Hips Don’t Lie” is a song by Shakira featuring Wyclef Jean, released in 2006 as the lead single from Shakira’s second English-language studio album, *Oral Fixation, Vol. 2*. Written by Shakira, Wyclef Jean, Jerry “Wonder” Duplessis, and Omar Alfanno, the song is a lively blend of reggaeton, salsa, and hip-hop influences. “Hips Don’t Lie” is famous for its infectious melody, energetic beats, and Shakira’s distinctive vocals, complemented by Wyclef Jean’s rap verses. The lyrics celebrate the power and sensuality of dancing, particularly focusing on Shakira’s iconic hip movements. The song was a massive commercial success, topping charts worldwide and becoming one of the best-selling singles of all time.
10. Waka Waka (This Time for Africa)
“Waka Waka (This Time for Africa)” is a vibrant and celebratory song by Shakira, featuring South African band Freshlyground. Released in 2010, the song served as the official theme for the 2010 FIFA World Cup held in South Africa. “Waka Waka” is a fusion of pop and African rhythms, incorporating elements of the traditional Cameroonian song “Zangalewa” and sung in multiple languages, including English, Spanish, and a Zulu chant. Lyrically, the song conveys themes of unity, empowerment, and celebration, with Shakira encouraging listeners to come together and embrace the spirit of the World Cup. “Waka Waka (This Time for Africa)” became an international phenomenon, topping charts worldwide and becoming one of the best-selling singles of all time. Its infectious melody, catchy chorus, and uplifting message made it an anthem of unity and joy during the World Cup and beyond.