With her unmistakable voice, magnetic stage presence, and genre-defying sound, Shakira has captivated audiences worldwide for decades. From her early days as a Latin pop sensation to becoming a global icon, the Colombian superstar has given us countless unforgettable tracks that have transcended borders, languages, and generations. Whether it’s her sultry fusion of rock and pop, her infectious dance beats, or her deeply emotional ballads, Shakira’s music has a way of making you move—both physically and emotionally. Throughout her career, she has consistently topped charts, won numerous awards, and, most importantly, left an indelible mark on pop culture with her unique sound and powerful lyrics.
In this article, we’re counting down the top 10 most popular Shakira songs of all time. From the timeless melodies that made her a household name to the dance anthems that still dominate playlists everywhere, these are the tracks that have defined her legacy. So, get ready to relive the magic, as we dive into the music that made Shakira a living legend and continues to remind us why her hips—and hits—don’t lie!
1. “Hips Don’t Lie” (2006)
Released in 2006, “Hips Don’t Lie” became an instant global phenomenon, forever altering the landscape of pop music. A collaboration with Haitian rapper Wyclef Jean, the track is an explosive fusion of reggaeton, salsa, and Latin pop that had listeners everywhere hooked from the first beat. The song is driven by an infectious horn riff and a rhythm that practically demands movement, with Shakira’s famously energetic hips taking center stage. As soon as the song dropped, it became an anthem on dance floors across the globe, with its catchy melody and playful lyrics transcending language barriers. “Hips Don’t Lie” was Shakira’s first number-one hit on the Billboard Hot 100, marking a major milestone in her career and cementing her status as an international superstar.
The song’s success wasn’t just about the music—it resonated with people on a deeper level. Its lyrics, which celebrate self-expression and confidence, helped elevate Shakira to a position of cultural relevance, particularly among women who embraced the empowerment behind her performance. The accompanying music video featured Shakira’s signature sultry dance moves, blending traditional Latin flair with modern pop, making it a visual spectacle that became iconic in its own right. The impact of “Hips Don’t Lie” is undeniable: it redefined Latin pop in the mainstream and brought the world’s attention to Shakira’s unique sound and personality. It became a permanent fixture in pop culture and still remains a beloved classic, reminding us of the power of rhythm and the joy of dancing freely.
2. “Whenever, Wherever” (2001)
Shakira’s global breakthrough came in 2001 with the release of “Whenever, Wherever,” a song that instantly captivated listeners with its bold mix of Latin folk, rock, and pop influences. Featuring the sound of Andean panpipes, the track was an exploration of love and fate, woven into a rhythm that was as unique as it was irresistible. With its infectious beat and Shakira’s raw, distinctive voice, the song set her apart from her contemporaries and propelled her into the global spotlight.
Lyrically, “Whenever, Wherever” embodies a carefree yet passionate declaration of love, with Shakira singing about a love so powerful that it transcends time and place. The track’s infectious nature made it an instant radio staple and one of the best-selling singles of 2001. Shakira’s vocal delivery was at the forefront of the song’s charm, with her ability to blend vulnerability and strength resonating with listeners around the world. The music video, shot in rugged natural landscapes, became an iconic visual representation of the song’s spirit, showcasing Shakira’s athleticism and mesmerizing dance moves.
“Whenever, Wherever” wasn’t just a commercial success—it was the start of a musical revolution. It broke through cultural boundaries, introducing millions to Shakira’s artistry and blending Latin sounds with global pop sensibilities. The song marked the beginning of Shakira’s journey to becoming a worldwide icon, and it remains a timeless anthem of love, adventure, and individuality.
3. “Waka Waka (This Time for Africa)” (2010)
Released in 2010 as the official anthem for the FIFA World Cup, “Waka Waka (This Time for Africa)” became more than just a song—it was a celebration of unity, resilience, and the unifying power of sports. Featuring South African band Freshlyground, the song combines African rhythms with Shakira’s signature pop sound, resulting in a high-energy anthem that captured the spirit of the global sporting event.
“Waka Waka” is not just a song—it’s a rallying cry. Its lyrics encourage listeners to rise above challenges and embrace the power of unity, making it a perfect fit for a World Cup anthem. The infectious chorus, paired with the danceable beat, made it an instant hit, with fans around the world singing along and performing its now-iconic choreography. The music video, which features Shakira dancing alongside a cast of dancers from around the world, is a visual celebration of diversity and the global connection that the World Cup fosters.
The track’s success was extraordinary, not only topping charts worldwide but becoming one of the best-selling World Cup songs of all time. Its message of hope and perseverance resonated with listeners of all ages, making it more than just a song for sports fans—it became a global anthem of positivity and togetherness. “Waka Waka” is a perfect example of how music can transcend borders, uniting people of all cultures in the name of celebration and joy.
4. “La Tortura” (2005)
When “La Tortura” was released in 2005, it marked a breakthrough moment in Latin music. A collaboration with Spanish singer Alejandro Sanz, the song blends reggaeton rhythms with pop, creating a sultry and emotionally charged track that became an instant classic. The song tells the story of heartbreak and betrayal, with the lyrics reflecting the pain and confusion of a toxic relationship. Shakira’s impassioned vocal performance gives the track an emotional depth that resonates with anyone who has ever experienced the agony of unrequited love.
The song’s seductive rhythm is matched by Shakira’s compelling vocals, as she navigates the complex emotions of betrayal with both intensity and vulnerability. The track’s success wasn’t just due to its infectious beat—it also highlighted Shakira’s ability to craft songs with real emotional weight, something that would define her career moving forward. “La Tortura” was a huge commercial success, dominating Latin music charts and becoming one of the best-selling Spanish-language singles of the decade.
The success of “La Tortura” solidified Shakira’s place as a leading figure in the Latin pop world, but it also proved that she could appeal to audiences on both sides of the language divide. The track’s combination of catchy reggaeton rhythms, heartfelt lyrics, and powerful vocal performances helped it transcend cultural boundaries and become a crossover hit in both Spanish and English-speaking markets. “La Tortura” remains a standout in Shakira’s catalog, a song that continues to captivate audiences with its mix of passion and heartbreak.
5. “She Wolf” (2009)
Released in 2009, “She Wolf” marked a bold new chapter in Shakira’s musical evolution. Moving away from her signature Latin pop sound, the track introduced a more electro-pop, disco-infused style that immediately caught the attention of listeners. With its hypnotic beat, catchy chorus, and playful lyrics, “She Wolf” was an instant club anthem, further showcasing Shakira’s ability to reinvent herself while maintaining her unique artistic identity.
The song’s lyrics, which are both mysterious and empowering, tell the story of a woman breaking free from the constraints of a relationship, symbolized by the “she wolf” persona. It’s a powerful declaration of independence, and Shakira’s performance on the track reflects this newfound sense of freedom and self-confidence. The music video, featuring surreal imagery and Shakira’s signature sultry dance moves, perfectly complements the song’s playful yet seductive tone.
With “She Wolf,” Shakira took a bold leap into the world of electronic dance music, tapping into the growing popularity of the genre while still maintaining the playful spirit and fierce independence that defined her previous work. The track was a commercial success, particularly in Europe, where it became a summer anthem. It was a refreshing reinvention that proved Shakira could stay ahead of the curve while continuing to push the boundaries of her sound. “She Wolf” remains a standout moment in her discography, a track that highlights her versatility as an artist and her willingness to take risks with her music.
6. “Underneath Your Clothes” (2001)
“Underneath Your Clothes,” released as part of Shakira’s groundbreaking 2001 album Laundry Service, marked a tender moment in her career, showcasing a softer, more intimate side of the artist. The track is a beautiful, heartfelt ballad that blends pop and Latin influences with a melody that gently carries Shakira’s raw, emotional vocals. The song’s lyrics are a tribute to a deep, unconditional love, expressing the kind of devotion that transcends superficial appearances and speaks to the soul. It’s a declaration of vulnerability, a contrast to the boldness often associated with Shakira’s music.
The song’s tender nature struck a chord with fans around the world. Shakira’s vocal performance is poignant and passionate, and the simplicity of the orchestration allows her voice to take center stage. “Underneath Your Clothes” was a commercial success, peaking on international charts and solidifying Shakira’s ability to craft both upbeat anthems and emotionally charged ballads. It demonstrated her versatility as an artist, proving that she could convey both powerful energy and deep emotion with equal authenticity.
The music video, featuring a more subdued Shakira, focused on the theme of love and connection, visually reinforcing the song’s emotional depth. This contrast to her earlier, more flamboyant performances helped to expand her appeal, showing her fans another side of her artistic persona. “Underneath Your Clothes” was a key track in Shakira’s transition into the global pop scene, proving that she could craft songs that resonated on a universal level while maintaining her Latin roots. The song remains a timeless reminder of Shakira’s ability to express both passion and vulnerability in her music.
7. “Chantaje” (2016)
Released in 2016, “Chantaje” is a captivating reggaeton-infused track that sees Shakira teaming up with Colombian singer Maluma. The song is full of sultry energy and explores the complicated dynamics of a relationship where manipulation and attraction are in constant play. With its catchy reggaeton beat and a seductive interplay between Shakira’s sultry vocals and Maluma’s smooth delivery, “Chantaje” quickly became a smash hit across Latin music charts.
Lyrically, the song is a playful yet intense commentary on the push and pull of love and desire. Shakira’s confident, flirtatious performance and Maluma’s cool, calm demeanor create an undeniable chemistry, which resonates throughout the track. The playful nature of the lyrics is balanced by a smooth, hypnotic rhythm, making it perfect for both radio play and dancing. “Chantaje” was not only a chart-topping success but also a visual feast, with the music video showcasing vibrant colors, sultry dance moves, and the undeniable charm of both Shakira and Maluma.
The song became a cultural sensation, earning billions of views on YouTube and spreading like wildfire through Latin pop culture. “Chantaje” solidified Shakira’s position as one of the top stars in the Latin music scene, but it also marked another milestone in her ability to stay relevant in an ever-evolving genre. The track’s success showed that Shakira could seamlessly blend traditional Latin rhythms with modern pop influences, creating music that spoke to both new and longtime fans. “Chantaje” is a testament to Shakira’s ability to remain at the forefront of Latin music while continuing to experiment with new sounds and collaborations.
8. “Loca” (2010)
“Loca” was released in 2010 and became a whirlwind of fun and energy that perfectly encapsulated the carefree spirit of summer. A vibrant fusion of merengue, Latin pop, and dance music, the track was both a celebration of rhythm and a perfect showcase for Shakira’s exuberant personality. Featuring British rapper Dizzee Rascal in its English version, “Loca” became a huge hit in both Latin America and Europe, where it resonated particularly well with audiences looking for a high-energy anthem to soundtrack their summer.
The song’s infectious beat, combined with Shakira’s signature vocal style, makes it impossible not to dance along. The lyrics are playful and carefree, reflecting a sense of spontaneous freedom and joy that mirrors the song’s upbeat vibe. “Loca” is less about love and more about letting go and enjoying the moment. Shakira’s charisma shines through in every note, making it clear that the song is meant to be a joyful escape, a temporary departure from the pressures of life.
The music video, with Shakira dancing through the streets in a whirlwind of color, perfectly mirrors the chaotic, wild energy of the song. “Loca” was an instant summer anthem, bringing Shakira back to the international spotlight after a brief hiatus. Its success across both English and Spanish-speaking markets proved that Shakira could continue to appeal to a global audience while keeping her Latin roots firmly in place. “Loca” remains one of Shakira’s most fun and energetic tracks, a testament to her ability to craft music that connects with listeners on a universal level.
9. “Ojos Así” (1999)
“Ojos Así” was released in 1999 as part of Shakira’s album ¿Dónde Están Los Ladrones?, marking a defining moment in her early career. The song combines elements of Arabic and Latin music, creating a rich, exotic sound that set Shakira apart from her contemporaries. The track’s hypnotic rhythm, blended with Shakira’s passionate vocals, transports listeners to a world where cultural boundaries blur, showcasing her ability to weave influences from different parts of the world into something entirely unique.
The song’s lyrics, which speak of a powerful and all-consuming love, are paired with a rhythm that mirrors the intensity of the emotions conveyed. Shakira’s voice is full of yearning and longing, yet there’s also a sense of strength and independence in her delivery. The track was a massive success in Latin America and beyond, further solidifying Shakira’s reputation as an artist who could blend genres, languages, and cultures in ways few others could.
“Ojos Así” remains a fan favorite for its fusion of musical influences and its ability to transport listeners to a place where passion and intensity take center stage. It helped establish Shakira’s identity as a bold and innovative artist unafraid to experiment with different sounds and genres. The song was a precursor to the global success that Shakira would later achieve, demonstrating that her music could resonate with diverse audiences and carve out a unique space in the pop music world. “Ojos Así” remains one of Shakira’s most beloved tracks, a timeless classic that showcases the early beginnings of her musical genius.
10. “Beautiful Liar” (2007)
In 2007, Shakira and Beyoncé teamed up for one of the most powerful collaborations in pop music history: “Beautiful Liar.” The song, with its seductive blend of pop and Middle Eastern-inspired beats, tells the story of two women who are both deceived by the same unfaithful lover. The track’s sultry vibe and powerful vocals from both Shakira and Beyoncé created a magnetic chemistry that made the song an instant hit across the globe.
The song’s narrative is one of betrayal and empowerment, with both women confronting the same deceit in different ways. Shakira and Beyoncé’s voices complement each other perfectly, weaving a complex web of emotions that is as fierce as it is captivating. The music video, which features both artists performing synchronized dance routines in mirror-image fashion, enhanced the song’s theme of duality and deception.
“Beautiful Liar” became a smash hit, topping charts around the world and solidifying the partnership between two of pop music’s biggest stars. The track’s success was a testament to the chemistry between Shakira and Beyoncé, who proved that two powerful women could create magic when they joined forces. “Beautiful Liar” is a standout moment in both of their careers, and its infectious beat and provocative lyrics continue to captivate listeners.
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.
