Shakira, born Shakira Isabel Mebarak Ripoll on February 2, 1977, in Barranquilla, Colombia, is a global pop icon known for her distinctive voice, infectious dance moves, and multicultural influences. A multi-talented artist, Shakira has achieved immense success as a singer, songwriter, dancer, and philanthropist.
Shakira’s music seamlessly blends pop, rock, Latin, and world influences, creating a unique sound that transcends borders. Her breakthrough came with the 2001 album “Laundry Service,” featuring the chart-topping hit “Whenever, Wherever.” Known for her electrifying performances, Shakira’s belly-dancing skills and dynamic stage presence have become signatures of her live shows.
Beyond her musical accomplishments, Shakira is recognized for her philanthropy, particularly her work in education and children’s health. She co-founded the Pies Descalzos Foundation, advocating for access to quality education in impoverished communities.
Shakira’s impact extends to her advocacy for cultural diversity, making her a prominent figure in the global entertainment landscape. With numerous accolades, including multiple Grammy Awards, Shakira remains a trailblazer, showcasing versatility and innovation throughout her career, and continues to inspire fans worldwide with her music and commitment to social causes.
1. Whenever, Wherever
“Whenever, Wherever” is a chart-topping single by Shakira, released in 2001 as the lead track from her fifth studio album, “Laundry Service.” Co-written by Shakira and Tim Mitchell, the song showcases her distinctive sound, characterized by a fusion of Latin, pop, and rock elements.
The lyrics of “Whenever, Wherever” convey a message of free-spirited love and the willingness to follow one’s heart wherever it may lead. The chorus features the iconic line “Whenever, wherever, we’re meant to be together,” capturing the song’s theme of romantic adventure.
Musically, the track is notable for its infectious melody and the use of traditional Andean instruments, which contribute to its distinctive sound. Shakira’s powerful and distinctive vocals, along with her signature belly-dancing, added to the song’s global appeal.
The accompanying music video, directed by Francis Lawrence, features Shakira in various exotic locations, showcasing her energetic dance moves and reflecting the song’s theme of wanderlust and passion.
“Whenever, Wherever” became a massive commercial success, topping charts worldwide and solidifying Shakira’s status as an international pop sensation. The song’s cross-cultural appeal and infectious energy helped it become one of the best-selling singles of the 21st century. “Whenever, Wherever” remains a defining moment in Shakira’s career, marking her transition to global stardom.
2. La Tortura (feat. Alejandro Sanz)
“La Tortura” is a collaboration between Shakira and Spanish singer-songwriter Alejandro Sanz, released in 2005 as part of Shakira’s sixth studio album, “Fijación Oral, Vol. 1.” Sung in both Spanish and English, the song is a fiery blend of Latin pop and reggaeton elements, addressing themes of heartbreak and emotional pain.
The lyrics of “La Tortura” depict the emotional turmoil of a failed relationship, with Shakira expressing the pain and suffering caused by love. Alejandro Sanz adds depth to the song with his soulful vocals, creating a powerful duet that resonated with audiences globally.
Musically, “La Tortura” features a dynamic combination of Latin rhythms, reggaeton beats, and acoustic elements. The song’s infectious melody, catchy chorus, and passionate delivery contribute to its widespread appeal. The accompanying music video, set in a visually striking desert landscape, captures the intensity of the emotions conveyed in the song.
“La Tortura” achieved immense success, topping charts in multiple countries and receiving critical acclaim for its innovative sound and collaborative chemistry between Shakira and Alejandro Sanz. The song’s cross-genre approach and its ability to seamlessly blend different musical influences further solidified Shakira’s reputation as a versatile and influential artist in the global music scene.
3. She Wolf
“She Wolf” is a song by Colombian singer Shakira, released in 2009 as the lead single from her eighth studio album of the same name, “She Wolf.” The song is characterized by its electropop and dance-pop sound, and it showcases Shakira’s distinctive vocals and unique style.
The lyrics of “She Wolf” explore themes of liberation, sensuality, and the idea of a woman embracing her wild and untamed side. The term “she wolf” metaphorically refers to a woman who is free-spirited and independent.
The accompanying music video features Shakira in various surreal and visually striking scenes, highlighting the song’s themes of transformation and freedom. Shakira’s unique dance style, often characterized by her belly-dancing moves, is also showcased in the video.
“She Wolf” received positive reviews from music critics for its catchy and experimental production. The song became a commercial success, reaching the top of the charts in various countries. Its success was followed by the release of the “She Wolf” album, which showcased Shakira’s willingness to explore different musical genres and experiment with her sound.
4. Underneath Your Clothes
“Underneath Your Clothes” is a romantic ballad by Shakira, released in 2002 as part of her third studio album, “Laundry Service.” Written by Shakira herself and Lester Mendez, the song showcases a softer and more introspective side of the artist.
The lyrics of “Underneath Your Clothes” express deep affection and intimacy, with Shakira singing about the beauty she finds in her partner both inside and out. The metaphor of “underneath your clothes” symbolizes the emotional and physical connection shared in a romantic relationship.
Musically, the song features a melodic and gentle arrangement, highlighting Shakira’s emotive vocals. The track is characterized by its acoustic instrumentation, allowing the sincerity of the lyrics to shine through. The chorus is particularly memorable, with Shakira’s expressive delivery conveying a sense of vulnerability and love.
“Underneath Your Clothes” became a commercial success, reaching high chart positions globally. The song’s appeal lies in its heartfelt lyrics, Shakira’s genuine performance, and the universal theme of love and appreciation in a relationship. The accompanying music video, featuring Shakira in various scenes and outfits, complements the song’s romantic atmosphere.
The track remains one of Shakira’s well-loved ballads, appreciated for its emotional depth and the artist’s ability to connect with listeners through themes of love and vulnerability.
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. The collaboration is part of Shakira’s self-titled album, “Shakira.” The song is characterized by its rock and reggae influences, and it marks the first time Shakira and Rihanna collaborated on a musical project.
The lyrics of “Can’t Remember to Forget You” revolve around themes of love, desire, and the challenges of moving on from a past relationship. The catchy chorus and the playful interaction between Shakira and Rihanna contribute to the song’s overall appeal.
The accompanying music video features both Shakira and Rihanna in various glamorous and visually striking scenes. The video showcases the chemistry between the two artists, enhancing the sensual and vibrant nature of the song.
“Can’t Remember to Forget You” received a positive response for its catchy melody and the dynamic combination of Shakira’s and Rihanna’s voices. While the song incorporates elements of rock and reggae, it still maintains a pop sensibility that appealed to a wide audience. The collaboration added a memorable chapter to the musical careers of both Shakira and Rihanna.
6. Loca (feat. Dizzee Rascal)
“Loca” is a vibrant and energetic song by Shakira featuring British rapper Dizzee Rascal. It was released in 2010 as part of Shakira’s ninth studio album, “Sale el Sol.” The track is known for its infectious Latin and dancehall-infused rhythm, making it a lively addition to Shakira’s diverse musical repertoire.
The lyrics of “Loca” celebrate the carefree and spontaneous spirit of being in love. Sung in both Spanish and English, the song captures the essence of a lively and adventurous romance. Dizzee Rascal’s rap verse adds a dynamic element to the track, complementing Shakira’s spirited vocals.
Musically, “Loca” is characterized by its upbeat tempo, tropical beats, and Shakira’s distinctive voice. The song incorporates elements of merengue and reggaeton, creating a festive and danceable atmosphere. The lively instrumentation and catchy hooks contributed to the song’s success on international charts.
The music video for “Loca” features Shakira in various vibrant settings, dancing and showcasing her infectious energy. The video captures the joyful and carefree vibe of the song, emphasizing its celebration of love and spontaneity.
“Loca” received positive reviews for its infectious rhythm and Shakira’s lively performance. The song’s global appeal and its success on charts around the world further solidified Shakira’s reputation as a versatile and influential artist in the realm of Latin pop and international music.
7. Chantaje (feat. Maluma)
“Chantaje” is a reggaeton and reggae-infused pop song by Shakira featuring Colombian singer Maluma. The song was released in 2016 as a single and became a massive hit. “Chantaje” is part of Shakira’s eleventh studio album, “El Dorado.”
The lyrics of “Chantaje” revolve around the themes of seduction and desire. The term “chantaje” translates to “blackmail” in English, but in the context of the song, it refers to the playful and consensual game of seduction between two people.
The collaboration between Shakira and Maluma brought together their distinct musical styles, creating a catchy and danceable track. The song features infectious beats, a reggaeton rhythm, and the sultry vocals of both artists.
The music video for “Chantaje” is known for its colorful and tropical visuals, highlighting Shakira and Maluma’s charismatic performances. The video, like the song itself, received positive reviews for its energetic and captivating presentation.
“Chantaje” became a commercial success, reaching the top of the charts in various countries and earning critical acclaim for its infectious sound. The collaboration between Shakira and Maluma showcased the global appeal of Latin pop and solidified their positions as influential artists in the music industry.
8. Objection (Tango)
“Objection (Tango)” is a song by Shakira, released in 2002 as part of her fifth studio album, “Laundry Service.” The song infuses elements of rock and tango, and it showcases Shakira’s versatility as an artist.
In “Objection (Tango),” Shakira sings about a tumultuous relationship, expressing her objections and dissatisfaction with the way things are going. The tango influences in the song add a passionate and dramatic flair to the overall sound.
The music video for “Objection (Tango)” is known for its energetic and intense choreography, featuring Shakira’s signature belly-dancing moves. The video complements the fiery and rebellious nature of the song’s lyrics.
“Objection (Tango)” received positive reviews from music critics who praised Shakira’s ability to blend different musical styles. The song became a commercial success, and its unique sound helped further establish Shakira as a global pop sensation.
The incorporation of tango elements in the song demonstrated Shakira’s willingness to experiment with various genres, showcasing her artistic growth and ability to appeal to diverse audiences.
9. Hips Don’t Lie (feat. Wyclef Jean)
“Hips Don’t Lie” is one of Shakira’s most iconic and globally successful songs, featuring Haitian rapper Wyclef Jean. Released in 2006 as part of Shakira’s album “Oral Fixation, Vol. 2,” the song is a fusion of Latin, reggaeton, and hip-hop elements. It quickly became a chart-topping hit and a dance anthem around the world.
The lyrics of “Hips Don’t Lie” celebrate the sensuality and expressive nature of dancing, particularly through the movement of the hips. Shakira’s distinctive voice and Wyclef Jean’s rap verse create a dynamic and energetic collaboration that adds to the song’s infectious appeal.
Musically, the track is characterized by its upbeat tempo, catchy melody, and the use of traditional Latin instrumentation, including a distinctive trumpet riff. The song incorporates elements of the song “Amores Como el Nuestro” by Jerry Rivera, adding a nostalgic touch to its vibrant sound.
The accompanying music video features Shakira showcasing her signature belly-dancing moves and vibrant stage presence, contributing to the song’s visual appeal. “Hips Don’t Lie” was not only a commercial success, topping charts worldwide, but also became one of the best-selling digital singles of all time.
The song’s irresistible combination of infectious beats, memorable hooks, and Shakira’s dynamic performance has made “Hips Don’t Lie” a timeless and iconic piece in the world of pop and Latin music.
10. Waka Waka (This Time for Africa)
“Waka Waka (This Time for Africa)” is a song by Shakira featuring the South African band Freshlyground. It was released in 2010 as the official song for the FIFA World Cup held in South Africa. The track is a fusion of pop and African rhythms, capturing the spirit of the tournament.
The lyrics of “Waka Waka” convey themes of unity, celebration, and the power of the African continent. The phrase “Waka Waka” is derived from the Bantu language, and it means “to walk” or “to do something.” The song encourages people to come together and celebrate, emphasizing the global nature of the World Cup.
The infectious and upbeat nature of “Waka Waka” contributed to its massive success. The song became an anthem for the 2010 World Cup, reaching the top of the charts in multiple countries. The music video features vibrant and colorful visuals, showcasing Shakira’s energetic dance moves and the diverse cultures of Africa.
Shakira performed “Waka Waka” during the closing ceremony of the 2010 World Cup, further solidifying its association with the event. The song’s success highlighted Shakira’s ability to create music that transcends cultural boundaries and resonates with a global audience.
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.
