For over two decades, Shakira has enthralled the world with her intoxicating blend of Latin pop, rock, and dance music. From her humble beginnings in Colombia to becoming a global superstar, Shakira’s distinctive voice, electrifying performances, and unparalleled songwriting prowess have captivated audiences across the globe. As we embark on a musical journey through her illustrious career, it becomes apparent that selecting a mere handful of songs to represent her greatness is a daunting task. Nevertheless, in this article, we present to you the top 10 best Shakira songs of all time, a collection that encapsulates the essence of her artistic brilliance.
Each entry on this list is a testament to Shakira’s ability to transcend genres and boundaries. We’ll explore her early breakthrough hits, such as “Whenever, Wherever” and “Hips Don’t Lie,” which propelled her to international stardom. We’ll delve into the soulful melodies and evocative lyrics of songs like “Underneath Your Clothes” and “La Tortura,” showcasing her emotional depth and vulnerability. Additionally, we’ll celebrate her collaborations with renowned artists like Beyoncé and Alejandro Sanz, witnessing the magic that unfolds when musical powerhouses unite.
Through this compilation, we’ll witness Shakira’s evolution as an artist, from her roots in Latin music to her ventures into the realms of pop, rock, and world music. Her songs embody a unique fusion of diverse cultures, languages, and musical styles, making her an icon of global unity and celebration. So, join us as we celebrate the incredible legacy of Shakira and delve into the top 10 best songs that have shaped the trajectory of her awe-inspiring career. Let the rhythm take hold as we honor the indomitable spirit of one of music’s most influential and beloved figures.
1. Whenever, Wherever
This beloved Shakira track is an ode to following your heart and seizing opportunities. With its infectious pop beat and Shakira's signature vocals, it's no wonder "Wherever, Whenever" became a global hit. The lyrics explore the thrill of adventure while still holding onto the ones you love. The song showcases Shakira's unique blend of rock, pop, and Latin influences, making it truly stand out in her extensive discography.
Shakira’s memory may fail her, but we definitely won’t forget this catchy hit featuring Rihanna.
2. Can’t Remember to Forget You
Shakira's hit 'Can't Remember to Forget You' featuring Rihanna is hailed as one of the best songs in her career. The bilingual track showcases Shakira's vocal versatility while the music video allures with its glamour and pop-art aesthetics. The song garnered a Grammy nomination and made it to top charts globally, solidifying Shakira as an international sensation.
Why settle for a loyal dog when you can have Shakira sing about being a faithful companion in 'Perro Fiel'?
3. Perro Fiel
This song is about loyalty and trust, as can be inferred from the title. 'Perro Fiel' is a single, featuring Nicky Jam, from Shakira's 2017 album 'El Dorado'. The song showcases Shakira's unique blend of pop, reggaeton and Latin music, with catchy beats and spicy lyrics.
The video has over 1.2 billion views on YouTube, making it one of the most-watched videos by Shakira. Without a doubt, 'Perro Fiel' is a fan favorite that never disappoints.
While 'Perro Fiel' has become one of Shakira's most popular songs due to its lively beat and heartfelt lyrics about faithfulness in relationships, it also symbolizes freedom and independence for women. The song encourages women to be authentic to themselves while celebrating love and devotion to their partners.
This melody became famous for being her first hit in years without the influence of producer Lester Mendez. She chose Nicky Jam as her collaborator instead – a move which proved successful when the single soared up charts worldwide.
The meaning behind 'Perro Fiel' reaches beyond just loyal dogs but extends to human relationships as well. The perfect blend of reggaeton beats and raw passion makes this an unforgettable hit-song for any audience.
She may be singing about secret love, but nothing is clandestine about how infectious this Shakira hit is.
4. Clandestino
Shakira's hit song, which is featured on her eponymous 1998 album, has made its mark as an all-time favorite amongst fans and critics. "Clandestino" meaning 'clandestine' in English, is a sensual and rhythmic track that highlights Shakira's versatile voice and unique Latin American flair. With catchy beats and beautiful Spanish lyrics, this song captures the essence of Shakira's music that has made her an international sensation. Its popularity has transcended borders, and it continues to be a fan-favorite across cultures.
Continuing with the theme of love and romance, "Clandestino" delves into the concept of a secret love affair between two people who cannot reveal their identities due to societal pressures. The lyrics evoke a feeling of passionate longing as the two lovers struggle to keep their relationship hidden from the world. Through this song, Shakira brings attention to taboo topics that are often considered unacceptable in conservative societies.
For those who haven't listened to Shakira before, "Clandestino" offers a glimpse into her enchanting world of music. It showcases her unique vocal range and her impressive lyrical skills while offering a window into Latin American culture through its rhythm and melody.
Missing out on listening to "Clandestino" would mean missing out on one of Shakira's best works ever produced – something no true music fan should let happen! So why wait? Give it a listen today!
"La Tortura" may translate to 'the torture', but listening to this song on repeat is pure musical bliss.
5. La Tortura
This entry on the list of '10 Best Shakira Songs of All Time' features a song that unapologetically explores the complexities of a toxic relationship. 'La Tortura' is an irresistible hit with its mesmerizing blend of Arabic and Latin rhythms, enchanting vocals, and haunting lyrics. The track's appeal lies in its ability to capture the frustration, pain, and desperation that comes with trying to end a toxic romance. Shakira's emotive voice paired with Alejandro Sanz's smooth vocals creates an explosive chemistry that draws listeners into the captivating story of love gone awry.
The song showcases Shakira's versatility as an artist as she navigates through different genres while staying true to her roots. This variation in influences highlights her unique artistry, which has gained her critical acclaim and massive popularity worldwide. With its catchy melody and relatable lyrics, it's no wonder why this track is still popular today.
One little-known fact about 'La Tortura' is that it was inspired by Shakira's personal experiences with heartbreak. She addresses the difficulties she faced in trying to move on from someone who treated her poorly, giving listeners a raw and authentic insight into her life. The song speaks directly to those who find themselves caught in similar situations, offering comfort through this shared experience.
'Chantaje' is like a spell that Shakira casts on us, making us hopelessly addicted to her seductive vocals and irresistible beats.
6. Chantaje
Shakira's hit single, featuring fellow Colombian singer Maluma, made waves globally upon its release. 'Chantaje' is a catchy reggaeton-infused pop song with hypnotic beats and sultry lyrics that blend seamlessly with the artists' vocals. The music video also garnered millions of views due to the steamy chemistry between Shakira and Maluma. Their voices complement each other perfectly in this sensual yet upbeat track.
One memorable aspect of 'Chantaje' is its infectious chorus that easily gets stuck in your head for hours. The song was released in 2016 as part of Shakira's eleventh studio album, 'El Dorado.' Since then, it has become one of her most streamed songs on various platforms. It even won two Latin Grammy Awards in 2017 for Best Urban Fusion/Performance and Best Short Form Music Video.
Overall, 'Chantaje' showcases Shakira's versatility as an artist who can effortlessly blend different genres into her music while still maintaining her distinctive sound. Shakira's hips never lie, but they sure do make a catchy chorus for this hit song.
7. Hips Don’t Lie
This classic Shakira song will make you want to get up and dance. Its upbeat tempo and catchy lyrics are perfect for shaking your hips to the beat. The fusion of Latin and pop music in "7. Hips Don't Lie" is a testament to Shakira's versatility as an artist. The song features her trademark belly dancing moves, making it visually appealing along with its feel-good vibe.
Continuing with the theme of shaking things up, this hit single has stayed popular since its release in 2006, and it's easy to see why. Its fun and playful nature make it perfect for any party or workout playlist. The incorporation of Spanish lyrics also adds a layer of cultural richness that elevates the song beyond just being another dance number.
What sets "7. Hips Don't Lie" apart from other Shakira songs is its collaboration with Wyclef Jean, who co-wrote and produced the track. This partnership brings out a unique mix of Caribbean beats and Colombian rhythms that work well together.
To enhance your listening experience with this song even further, we suggest blasting it at full volume and learning some hip-shaking choreography yourself! Dancing promotes endorphin release, which can help reduce stress levels while improving overall health and wellbeing.
Shakira proves she's the ultimate alpha female in 'She Wolf', making other pop stars look like mere house pets.
8. She Wolf
Shakira's outstanding creativity is showcased in the dynamic track, where she transforms into a 'Female Wolf'. With powerful lyrics and a distinctive electronic sound, this hit from 2009 is truly one of Shakira's most unique pieces. The song showcases Shakira at her best, with her striking vocals accompanied by high energy beats that make it impossible not to dance along. The music video further enhances the song's ingenuity, featuring Shakira in its most unusual form.
As the album's lead single, "She Wolf" debuted at #11 on the US Billboard Hot 100 and sold over two million copies worldwide. Still today, it remains one of Shakira's most famous songs and has been covered by several other artists.
It might come as an interesting fact for fans to know that while writing this eclectic masterpiece, Shakira was inspired by her fascination with werewolves. According to sources, she was enthralled with these mythical creatures and decided to incorporate wolf-like features into her performance.
Shakira's motto: 'Try everything', except for skipping this song on the list of her best.
9. Try Everything
Expanding on the ninth entry in our list of the top Shakira songs, this track urges listeners to take chances and try new experiences. Its uplifting energy encourages everyone to embrace change and challenges. Here are six points that highlight why 'Try Everything' is a must-listen:
- Empowering lyrics
- Energetic beats
- An upbeat tempo with infectious rhythms
- Shakira's distinctive vocals that captivate the audience.
- The song's appearance on the soundtrack of Disney's Zootopia makes it all the more memorable and enjoyable for both kids and adults alike.
- A well-executed fusion of pop, rock and dance music sounds, accompanied by an optimistic message about trying one's best.
Beyond these points, 'Try Everything' allows Shakira to use her musical influences and creativity to create an track that inspires people around the world.
A unique aspect of this song lies in its cross-genre appeal, with something for everyone in its blend of styles – which may explain why it remains timeless after so many years.
Interestingly, 'Try Everything' also proves that Shakira can reach audiences beyond her die-hard fans. It topped charts globally including #2 on Hot Latin Songs Chart (Billboard) and at #63 on US Billboard Hot 100 chart.
Sources confirm that while working on this song accompanied by Sia as a co-writer who gave the final touch inspiring Shakira to frame this empowering anthem.
Waka Waka might be the official song of the 2010 World Cup, but it's also the unofficial anthem of every Zumba class I've ever been to.
10. Waka Waka (This Time for Africa)
Shakira's "This Time for Africa" is a timeless hit that blends her signature Latin sound with an African influence. The upbeat and catchy song was the official anthem for the 2010 FIFA World Cup, bringing together fans from all over the world. With motivational lyrics and a powerful message, it continues to inspire listeners globally. Its stellar music video features colorful visuals and energetic dance moves, further enhancing its popularity. The song stands as a testament to Shakira's ability to create dynamic and universal hits that resonate across cultures.
Another one of Shakira's top hits is "Hips Don't Lie," which features fellow superstar, Wyclef Jean. The song was a massive success upon release, topping charts across the world and becoming one of the best-selling singles of all time. Its infectious rhythm and playful lyrics make it perfect for dancing, while Shakira's vocals shine through as always. Its music video showcases her incredible talent as a dancer, making it an iconic piece in her discography.
Shakira has also proven her versatility with acoustic ballads such as "Underneath Your Clothes." The emotional track showcases her softer side while still maintaining a strong connection with listeners. It received critical acclaim and commercial success, further solidifying her position as a multifaceted artist.
Fun Fact: "Waka Waka (This Time for Africa)" is based on Cameroonian group Golden Sounds' popular song "Zangaléwa."
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.
