Few artists have achieved the global stardom and cultural impact of Shakira. With her signature blend of Latin rhythms, pop melodies, and heartfelt lyrics, she has captivated millions across the globe. From her humble beginnings in Barranquilla, Colombia, to becoming an international sensation, Shakira’s music transcends borders, languages, and generations. Whether she’s singing in Spanish, English, or blending the two, her songs carry an unparalleled energy that moves both the body and the soul.
Shakira’s career spans decades, marked by unforgettable hits that have dominated airwaves and topped charts worldwide. Her ability to reinvent herself while staying true to her roots has earned her a dedicated fanbase and critical acclaim. From sultry ballads to electrifying dance tracks, her music is a testament to her versatility and unmatched artistry.
In this article, we take a deep dive into Shakira’s top 10 most popular songs of all time. These are the tracks that defined her career, set dance floors ablaze, and became global anthems. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or new to her music, get ready to relive the magic and discover why Shakira remains one of the most iconic artists of our time. Let’s dive in!
1. Hips Don’t Lie (2006)
When Shakira dropped “Hips Don’t Lie” in 2006 featuring Wyclef Jean, it was like a global explosion of rhythm and energy. Fusing reggaeton, salsa, and pop with an unmistakable trumpet line, the song immediately stood out as something fresh and infectious. Shakira’s distinct vocal style—both playful and commanding—made it impossible not to get swept up in the groove. The lyrics are a joyous celebration of dance and self-expression, with the iconic chorus serving as a reminder that the body never lies when the rhythm hits. Wyclef’s playful ad-libs added even more flavor, blending seamlessly with Shakira’s electric energy. “Hips Don’t Lie” didn’t just top charts; it smashed them, becoming a number one hit in over 55 countries. It also became a go-to anthem at clubs, weddings, and even sports events, instantly recognizable from its first few beats. Years later, it’s still a cultural touchstone, a song that makes even the most reluctant dancers move. Whether you’re hearing it for the first time or the hundredth, “Hips Don’t Lie” captures a kind of joyful magic that feels totally timeless.
2. Whenever, Wherever (2001)
“Whenever, Wherever” wasn’t just a hit in 2001—it was Shakira’s grand introduction to the world stage. With its vibrant Andean pan flute melodies, driving rhythm, and poetic lyrics about love transcending distance, the song sounded like nothing else on pop radio at the time. Shakira’s raw, passionate voice paired perfectly with the song’s adventurous spirit, delivering lines that were heartfelt, quirky, and instantly memorable (“lucky that my breasts are small and humble” became iconic all on its own). Blending Latin folk influences with polished pop-rock production, “Whenever, Wherever” felt like a breath of fresh air in the early 2000s. It topped charts in dozens of countries and helped propel Shakira’s album Laundry Service to multi-platinum status. More than just commercial success, though, this song showed that pop could be global, diverse, and adventurous—and it opened the doors for many Latin artists to follow. Even today, hearing “Whenever, Wherever” brings a surge of nostalgia and excitement, a reminder of Shakira’s fearless creativity and the way she redefined what international pop music could sound like.
3. Waka Waka (This Time for Africa) (2010)
When the world came together for the 2010 FIFA World Cup, “Waka Waka (This Time for Africa)” became the soundtrack of that unity and celebration. Drawing inspiration from the Cameroonian song “Zamina mina (Zangaléwa),” Shakira crafted a vibrant, uplifting anthem full of energy, hope, and cultural pride. Her dynamic vocals, combined with the catchy chorus and driving beats, made “Waka Waka” a song that crossed all borders. It wasn’t just about soccer—it was about resilience, togetherness, and the unstoppable spirit of people around the world. The music video, filled with vibrant colors and scenes from around the globe, captured the joyous feeling perfectly. “Waka Waka” became an international phenomenon, topping charts in over 15 countries and being certified multi-platinum in several. To this day, it remains one of the most beloved World Cup anthems ever recorded. Whether you’re a soccer fan or not, it’s impossible not to feel uplifted when you hear that beat drop. “Waka Waka” is a reminder that music can unite, uplift, and inspire on a global scale—and Shakira’s voice was the perfect one to lead that celebration.
4. La Tortura (2005)
“La Tortura,” released in 2005 and featuring Spanish singer Alejandro Sanz, was a game-changer for Latin pop. Blending reggaeton rhythms with heartfelt lyrics about love, betrayal, and regret, the song created a fiery emotional atmosphere that few could resist. Shakira’s raw, emotive delivery is matched beautifully by Sanz’s smoky voice, creating a duet that feels more like a passionate conversation than a typical pop song. The chemistry between them is undeniable, making every line hit harder. “La Tortura” broke records, becoming one of the first Spanish-language songs to get heavy rotation on English-language radio stations in the U.S. and around the world. The music video, with its now-famous scenes of Shakira dancing in oil-slicked scenes, further cemented her as a global icon. Beyond its commercial success, “La Tortura” showed that Latin music could cross over into the mainstream without sacrificing authenticity. Even now, it stands as a brilliant example of storytelling through music—where rhythm, emotion, and performance come together to create something unforgettable.
5. She Wolf (2009)
“She Wolf” marked a bold new era for Shakira when it was released in 2009. Trading her usual guitar-driven pop for shimmering synths and pulsing disco beats, the song was a daring move—and it paid off. With lyrics about a woman embracing her wild, uninhibited side, “She Wolf” felt like a liberation anthem wrapped inside an irresistible dance track. Shakira’s playful, almost otherworldly vocals added a sense of mystique, making the song feel like a night-time adventure into freedom and self-expression. Critics praised its sleek, futuristic sound, calling it one of her most innovative releases. The music video, featuring Shakira’s signature contortions inside a golden cage, became just as iconic as the song itself. “She Wolf” not only showed that Shakira wasn’t afraid to evolve; it proved that she could dominate any genre she set her mind to. Even today, when the hypnotic beat kicks in, it’s hard not to want to dance and howl along. “She Wolf” remains a thrilling reminder of the freedom that comes with embracing your true, untamed self.
6. Chantaje (2016)
“Chantaje,” Shakira’s 2016 duet with Maluma, captures the sizzling chemistry and playful tension between two of Latin music’s biggest stars. The title, meaning “blackmail,” sets the tone for a flirty power struggle where each singer tries to outwit the other in love’s mischievous game. Shakira’s sultry vocals, combined with Maluma’s smooth delivery, create a magnetic dynamic that’s impossible to resist. The reggaeton-infused beat is sleek and infectious, blending urban sounds with Shakira’s unmistakable flair. “Chantaje” marked a strong return to Shakira’s Latin roots, connecting her past sensibilities with the modern reggaeton wave that was taking over the charts. The song quickly became a smash hit, racking up billions of views on YouTube and dominating streaming platforms. Its success wasn’t just because of the catchy hook—it was the way Shakira and Maluma brought the story to life, making it feel fun, sexy, and full of attitude. “Chantaje” reinforced Shakira’s timeless appeal, showing that she could evolve with the times while staying true to her vibrant, playful essence. It’s a track that still heats up dance floors and playlists around the world.
7. Underneath Your Clothes (2002)
“Underneath Your Clothes” revealed a different side of Shakira when it was released in 2002. Known for her fiery dance tracks, Shakira shifted gears with this heartfelt ballad, showcasing vulnerability and deep romantic devotion. The song, from her Laundry Service album, leans into soft rock influences with a timeless melody and understated instrumentation that lets her voice truly shine. Singing about the unconditional love and sacrifices that happen behind the scenes in a relationship, Shakira’s lyrics are tender, poetic, and disarmingly honest. Her slightly accented English delivery only adds to the song’s charm, making every word feel personal and real. “Underneath Your Clothes” quickly became a favorite for couples, often appearing on wedding playlists and romantic compilations. It reached the top of the charts in multiple countries and solidified Shakira’s ability to connect emotionally with a global audience. Beyond its commercial success, the song stands out because of its sincerity—it feels less like a performance and more like a confession whispered straight from the heart. Even years later, “Underneath Your Clothes” remains a touching reminder of Shakira’s versatility and her deep understanding of love’s most intimate moments.
8. Ojos Así (1998)
“Ojos Así,” from Shakira’s acclaimed 1998 album ¿Dónde Están los Ladrones?, is a masterclass in blending cultures and sounds. Sung entirely in Spanish, the track mixes Middle Eastern musical influences with Latin rock, creating a hypnotic, danceable soundscape that’s rich with emotion and mystery. The title translates to “Eyes Like Those,” and the lyrics are filled with longing, as Shakira sings of traveling the world and never finding eyes as captivating as those of her beloved. Her passionate delivery, punctuated by haunting melodies and exotic instrumentation, set the song apart from anything else in Latin pop at the time. “Ojos Así” became a defining moment in Shakira’s early career, showcasing her bold artistic vision and vocal prowess. It also hinted at her global ambitions, which would soon explode with her English-language crossover. Fans and critics alike praised the song for its authenticity and innovation, and it remains a fan favorite to this day. “Ojos Así” isn’t just a standout track—it’s a glimpse into Shakira’s roots and her fearless approach to blending diverse sounds into something uniquely her own.
9. Beautiful Liar (2007)
When Shakira and Beyoncé joined forces for “Beautiful Liar” in 2007, it was a dream collaboration that exceeded all expectations. The song, a sleek midtempo track infused with Middle Eastern flavors, explores themes of betrayal and female solidarity. Instead of turning against each other over a cheating man, the two women rise above the drama, choosing empowerment over rivalry. Their voices blend seamlessly, each bringing her own style while harmonizing beautifully. The accompanying music video, featuring mesmerizing mirror-image choreography, only amplified the song’s allure. “Beautiful Liar” quickly became a global hit, topping charts around the world and earning critical acclaim for its positive message and irresistible groove. It showcased both artists’ versatility and underscored a powerful message about unity over conflict. For Shakira, it was another proof point of her ability to cross genres, cultures, and languages with ease. Even years later, “Beautiful Liar” remains a standout duet in pop history, a sleek, sultry anthem that celebrates strength, confidence, and the power of women supporting each other instead of tearing each other down.
10. Ciega, Sordomuda (1998)
Released in 1998, “Ciega, Sordomuda” (meaning “Blind, Deaf, and Mute”) is one of Shakira’s most energetic and beloved songs. Combining pop-rock with mariachi-inspired sounds, the track bursts with vibrant energy from the first beat. Beneath the upbeat music, though, the lyrics tell a deeper story about the overwhelming, almost paralyzing effects of falling in love. Shakira describes how love can make a person blind, deaf, and mute—completely at the mercy of their emotions. Her voice is full of youthful passion, and the song’s infectious chorus invites listeners to sing (and dance) along. “Ciega, Sordomuda” became an anthem for fans across Latin America and marked a defining moment in Shakira’s pre-crossover career. The song helped solidify her as a songwriter with a unique voice, blending relatable emotions with playful, clever wordplay. It also showcased her talent for fusing traditional Latin sounds with modern pop-rock sensibilities. Even decades later, “Ciega, Sordomuda” remains a joyous celebration of the highs and lows of love, and a reminder of the fiery, fearless spirit that Shakira brought to Latin pop music at the time.
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.
