Few artists have left as indelible a mark on the global music scene as Shakira. With her unmistakable voice, electrifying dance moves, and boundary-breaking fusion of genres, the Colombian superstar has captivated audiences for decades. From Latin rhythms to pop anthems, Shakira’s songs have a way of transcending language barriers and uniting fans from all corners of the world. Whether she’s delivering a heartfelt ballad or igniting the dance floor with an infectious beat, Shakira consistently proves why she’s a musical force to be reckoned with.
But which of her songs have stood the test of time and risen to the top? In this article, we’ll take you on a rhythmic journey through Shakira’s incredible career, counting down the top 10 most popular tracks that have defined her legacy. From early hits that catapulted her into stardom to the chart-toppers that turned her into an international icon, these are the songs that made the world fall in love with Shakira. Get ready to relive the magic, the passion, and the irresistible beats that only Shakira can deliver. Let’s dive into the music that has made hips shake—and hearts race—across the globe!
1. “Hips Don’t Lie” (2006)
Released in 2006, Shakira’s “Hips Don’t Lie” became an undeniable global sensation, solidifying her place as one of the most iconic pop stars of the 21st century. Featuring the legendary Haitian rapper Wyclef Jean, this track is an energetic blend of Latin, reggaeton, and world music influences that immediately captivated listeners. From its infectious brass-heavy intro to Shakira’s signature, sultry vocal delivery, every element of the song contributes to its undeniable charm. The song was released as part of the reissue of her album Oral Fixation, Vol. 2, and it quickly became a worldwide anthem, topping charts in over 50 countries and becoming one of the best-selling singles of all time. What made “Hips Don’t Lie” such a timeless hit was not just its irresistible rhythm but also Shakira’s electrifying stage presence and famous belly-dancing moves, which added a visual spectacle to the already captivating track.
The song’s upbeat tempo and catchy hook, paired with Wyclef’s energetic rapping, made “Hips Don’t Lie” a perfect fusion of pop, Latin, and hip-hop sounds. Its infectious chorus and powerful brass section made it an instant dance-floor filler, while Shakira’s unique ability to blend different cultural sounds into mainstream pop made her stand out as a global music force. “Hips Don’t Lie” remains a cornerstone of Shakira’s career, and its success isn’t just measured by its chart performance—it has become a pop culture phenomenon that’s impossible to ignore, continuing to be a favorite in clubs and playlists worldwide. From stadium performances to dance parties, it’s a song that never fails to get people moving.
2. “Waka Waka (This Time for Africa)” (2010)
In 2010, Shakira’s “Waka Waka (This Time for Africa)” became an anthem of unity and celebration during the FIFA World Cup in South Africa. Featuring the South African band Freshlyground, the song seamlessly fused Afrobeat rhythms with Shakira’s pop stylings to create a track that transcended borders and cultures. Its infectious chorus, rooted in a traditional African soldier’s song, quickly became a global rallying cry, bringing together fans from all over the world to cheer for their teams. “Waka Waka” wasn’t just a song—it became the heartbeat of the World Cup, with its high-energy beat and Shakira’s powerful vocals encapsulating the spirit of the tournament.
The song’s vibrant energy and universal appeal helped it soar to the top of the charts in more than 20 countries. Its lyrics of resilience, teamwork, and celebration made it the perfect soundtrack for an event that brought together people from all walks of life. “Waka Waka” was a celebration of both football and Africa’s cultural richness, and Shakira used her platform to highlight the continent’s spirit and diversity. The accompanying music video, filmed in South Africa, featured Shakira dancing alongside local performers, further embracing the spirit of the African culture and the World Cup. With over 3 billion views on YouTube, “Waka Waka” became a defining song of 2010, and its legacy continues to endure in sporting events, cultural celebrations, and playlists around the world.
3. “Whenever, Wherever” (2001)
“Whenever, Wherever,” released in 2001, marked a defining moment in Shakira’s career as it catapulted her into global superstardom. This infectious track, from her English-language debut album Laundry Service, was a perfect blend of Latin pop, rock, and Andean folk influences, setting it apart from other mainstream music of the time. The song’s catchy pan flute melody and upbeat rhythms gave it a unique flavor, while Shakira’s passionate, earthy vocals made it feel both adventurous and intimate. The lyrics, a celebration of fate and romantic devotion, were paired with a rhythm that made it irresistible to listeners, no matter where they were from.
The song became an international hit, resonating across continents and breaking down language barriers with its universal appeal. “Whenever, Wherever” was a turning point for Shakira, as it marked her explosive crossover into the mainstream pop scene. The song’s success was amplified by its stunning music video, which featured Shakira dancing in diverse, stunning locations across the globe, perfectly capturing the adventurous spirit of the song. The mix of Latin rhythms and Western pop elements in “Whenever, Wherever” helped introduce Shakira to a broader audience, allowing her to showcase her unique sound and vocal prowess. It became an anthem of love and serendipity and remains one of Shakira’s most beloved hits, still played at parties and celebrations years after its release.
4. “La Tortura” (2005)
Released in 2005, “La Tortura” marked a milestone in Shakira’s career as it became her first major bilingual hit. Featuring Spanish singer-songwriter Alejandro Sanz, the track is a reggaeton-influenced anthem of heartbreak, longing, and betrayal. The song’s dramatic lyrics are matched with an infectious, danceable beat that blends Latin rhythms with the smooth sensuality Shakira is known for. Through the chemistry between Shakira and Sanz, the song unfolds as a passionate duet where both singers trade verses, each embodying a sense of longing, confusion, and heartache over a fractured relationship. The intensity of their vocal performances, along with the contrasting male and female perspectives, brought the song to life in a way that captivated listeners from the first note.
“La Tortura” became an instant classic in Latin music, topping charts in Latin America, Spain, and beyond. Its success was not just due to its powerful lyrics but also its sultry, memorable music video, which showcased Shakira’s signature belly-dancing skills and sensual choreography. The video added to the song’s allure, turning it into a visual as well as an auditory experience. “La Tortura” helped solidify Shakira’s reputation as one of the most captivating and versatile artists of her generation, and its success proved that she could not only dominate in Spanish but also make waves in the global music scene. As one of her biggest hits, “La Tortura” continues to be a favorite among Shakira’s fans, a testament to her ability to blend passion, storytelling, and rhythm.
5. “Underneath Your Clothes” (2002)
“Underneath Your Clothes,” released in 2002 as part of Shakira’s album Laundry Service, is one of her most tender and heartfelt songs. This ballad, which showcases a softer, more romantic side of Shakira, is a love song dedicated to devotion, loyalty, and the depth of connection shared with a significant other. With lush instrumentation, including gentle guitar strumming and orchestral backing, the song creates a sense of intimacy and sincerity. Shakira’s emotive vocals convey the vulnerability and affection present in the lyrics, making it one of her most emotionally resonant songs.
“Underneath Your Clothes” became a massive hit, particularly in Europe and the U.S., where its sincerity and vulnerability struck a chord with listeners. The song’s lyrics, which speak of the profound connection between two people and the beauty of being loved for who you truly are, elevated it to timeless status. The music video, featuring Shakira in a variety of beautiful, symbolic settings, further enhanced the song’s romantic and emotional appeal. Unlike many of Shakira’s high-energy, danceable tracks, “Underneath Your Clothes” proved that she could excel in more delicate, vulnerable territory, making it one of her most versatile hits. Its success not only solidified her as a pop star but also highlighted her versatility as an artist who could master both powerful anthems and tender ballads with equal skill.
6. “Loca” (2010)
Released in 2010 as part of her album Sale El Sol, “Loca” is a carefree, fun-filled anthem that perfectly captures the exuberance and vibrancy of Latin pop. Featuring British rapper Dizzee Rascal on the English version, the song is a mix of merengue, reggaeton, and dance beats, creating a catchy, irresistible rhythm that makes it impossible to sit still. Shakira’s playful and flirtatious vocals, paired with the infectious beats, immediately elevate the track, making it a perfect party song that you can’t help but dance to. The song became an instant hit in Europe and Latin America, reaching the top of charts and receiving praise for its lighthearted, feel-good energy.
The song’s lyrics, which speak to the excitement and spontaneity of falling for someone and losing yourself in the moment, are paired with a lively, upbeat tempo that captures the carefree spirit of the song. “Loca” exudes energy and joy, and Shakira’s magnetic presence makes it one of her most memorable tracks. The music video, featuring vibrant, playful scenes of Shakira in a variety of settings, further reinforces the song’s lighthearted tone and joyous spirit. “Loca” was more than just a hit—it’s a celebration of freedom, fun, and the unpredictable nature of love. Its upbeat tempo and exuberant vibe made it a fixture at parties and celebrations worldwide, showcasing Shakira’s ability to create tracks that are both infectious and full of life.
With “Loca,” Shakira demonstrated that she could not only produce powerful ballads and emotional anthems but also master the art of creating songs that are pure fun, full of rhythm, and guaranteed to get people on their feet. It’s a prime example of her versatility as an artist and her ability to blend different musical genres seamlessly.
7. “She Wolf” (2009)
Released in 2009, “She Wolf” was a bold departure from Shakira’s previous work, showcasing her ability to evolve and experiment with new sounds. The track, with its hypnotic electro-pop beat and futuristic production, was unlike anything she had released before. The song’s production, influenced by electronic dance music and infused with her signature Latin flavor, set it apart from mainstream pop and captured the attention of listeners looking for something fresh. Shakira’s vocal performance, especially her howling falsetto, created a sense of mystery and sensuality that made the song even more intriguing.
In “She Wolf,” Shakira embraces the idea of self-liberation and embracing one’s primal instincts, with lyrics that speak to breaking free from emotional restraint. The track is both seductive and empowering, with Shakira singing about shedding societal expectations and embracing her inner strength. The accompanying music video was equally iconic, with Shakira performing intense choreography in a golden cage, symbolizing both entrapment and freedom. The video’s striking visuals matched the song’s bold, futuristic sound and became as much a talking point as the song itself.
“She Wolf” quickly became a favorite in clubs, with its electro-pop beats and catchy hook making it a dance-floor anthem. The song’s success marked Shakira’s willingness to take risks and explore new sounds while maintaining her unique voice. It was a demonstration of her ability to adapt to current musical trends without losing the elements that made her a global star. “She Wolf” remains a standout track in Shakira’s career, showing that she can reinvent herself and keep fans coming back for more.
8. “Chantaje” (2016)
In 2016, Shakira teamed up with Colombian reggaeton star Maluma for “Chantaje,” a sultry and seductive reggaeton track that became an instant hit. The song is a perfect example of Shakira’s ability to stay relevant in an ever-evolving music scene while blending Latin sounds with mainstream pop appeal. “Chantaje” is a playful back-and-forth between Shakira and Maluma, with both singers trading flirtatious verses and building a palpable chemistry that makes the track irresistibly catchy. The song’s infectious beat and sensual lyrics immediately captivated audiences, especially in Latin America, where it became a chart-topping success.
The song’s lyrics, which speak to the addictive nature of a complicated relationship, are paired with a reggaeton beat that is both smooth and rhythmic, adding to the song’s overall allure. The chemistry between Shakira and Maluma in both the song and its music video only amplified its success. Their playful dynamic adds a layer of intrigue and excitement, making “Chantaje” a captivating listening experience. The music video, shot in a variety of seductive and glamorous settings, further enhanced the song’s sultry tone, establishing it as a major hit.
With over a billion views on YouTube, “Chantaje” became one of Shakira’s most successful collaborations and demonstrated her enduring appeal and star power. The track’s success also showed that Shakira was not only keeping up with the latest trends but also shaping them, continuing to evolve and stay at the forefront of Latin music.
9. “Ojos Así” (1999)
“Ojos Así,” released in 1999 as part of Shakira’s album ¿Dónde Están los Ladrones?, is a captivating fusion of Latin and Middle Eastern influences that showcases Shakira’s unique ability to blend diverse cultural sounds into her music. The track draws heavily from Shakira’s Lebanese heritage, featuring traditional Arabic instruments like the oud and darbuka, which give the song a rich, exotic feel. “Ojos Así” is one of Shakira’s most beloved Spanish-language songs, and its infectious rhythm, combined with Shakira’s mesmerizing vocals, helped it become a hit across Latin America and beyond.
The song’s lyrics are about the overwhelming and magnetic attraction someone feels for another person, and Shakira’s emotive delivery brings this longing to life. The passionate vocals, along with the energetic instrumentation, create a sense of both desire and mystery. “Ojos Así” stands out as one of Shakira’s early masterpieces, demonstrating her incredible vocal range and her ability to tell a story through music that transcends language. The track also displays her talent for combining various musical genres, from Latin pop to Middle Eastern sounds, making it a truly unique piece in her discography.
“Ojos Así” remains a fan favorite and is still regularly performed at Shakira’s live shows, where its high-energy beat and striking instrumentation continue to captivate audiences. The song helped set the stage for Shakira’s rise to international superstardom, establishing her as an artist who was not afraid to push boundaries and explore new musical territories.
10. “La Bicicleta” (2016)
In 2016, Shakira teamed up with fellow Colombian artist Carlos Vives for the joyous, feel-good track “La Bicicleta.” The song is a celebration of Colombian culture, with both artists reminiscing about their roots and singing about the simple pleasures of life, such as riding a bicycle along the Colombian coast. With its mix of vallenato, pop, and reggaeton rhythms, “La Bicicleta” became an instant hit in Latin America, where it resonated deeply with fans for its nostalgic and positive energy. The song is a testament to Shakira’s ability to honor her heritage while creating music that feels both modern and timeless.
The lyrics of “La Bicicleta” speak to the carefree joy of life and the love for one’s homeland, with both Shakira and Vives singing about their hometowns and the beauty of Colombia’s landscapes. The music video, which features scenes of Shakira and Vives riding bicycles through the streets of Colombia, captures the warmth and joy of the song, further amplifying its celebration of Colombian culture. “La Bicicleta” became a summer anthem and was celebrated for its upbeat, sunny vibe, which made it a favorite at parties, festivals, and gatherings.
The success of “La Bicicleta” helped solidify Shakira’s status as one of Latin music’s most beloved and influential figures. The song won numerous awards and further cemented Shakira’s position as an ambassador of Colombian culture on the world stage. “La Bicicleta” is a true celebration of Shakira’s roots and her ability to connect with audiences through the universal joy of music.
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.
