Shakira is a Colombian singer, songwriter, and dancer who has become one of the most iconic and influential figures in Latin and pop music. Born on February 2, 1977, in Barranquilla, Colombia, Shakira Isabel Mebarak Ripoll rose to prominence in the late 1990s with her unique blend of Latin, rock, and pop music.
Shakira began her music career at a young age, releasing her debut album “Magia” in 1990 at the age of 13. However, it was her breakthrough album “Pies Descalzos” in 1995 that brought her widespread fame in Latin America. She gained international recognition with her fifth studio album “Laundry Service” in 2001, which featured the global hit “Whenever, Wherever.”
Known for her distinctive voice, infectious rhythms, and captivating stage presence, Shakira has continued to release hit albums and singles throughout her career. Some of her most popular songs include “Hips Don’t Lie,” “Waka Waka (This Time for Africa),” “Underneath Your Clothes,” and “She Wolf.”
In addition to her music career, Shakira is also known for her philanthropic work and activism. She is a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador and has been involved in various charitable initiatives, including education and children’s rights.
Shakira’s influence extends beyond music, as she is also recognized for her dynamic performances, unique style, and entrepreneurial ventures. She has won numerous awards, including multiple Grammy Awards and Latin Grammy Awards, and has sold over 75 million records worldwide.
With her distinctive sound, dynamic stage presence, and commitment to social causes, Shakira has become a cultural icon and a symbol of female empowerment in the world of music. Her impact on Latin and pop music is undeniable, and she continues to inspire fans around the world with her music and activism.
1. Try Everything
“Try Everything” is a pop song performed by Colombian singer Shakira, featured in the 2016 animated film “Zootopia.” The song serves as the anthem of the film’s protagonist, Judy Hopps, a determined bunny who dreams of becoming a police officer in the bustling city of Zootopia.
“Try Everything” is an uplifting and motivational song that encourages perseverance, resilience, and embracing new opportunities, even in the face of challenges and setbacks. The lyrics convey themes of courage and determination, urging listeners to keep pushing forward and never give up on their dreams.
Musically, “Try Everything” is characterized by its catchy melody, upbeat tempo, and Shakira’s dynamic vocals. The song’s energetic rhythm and infectious chorus make it an empowering anthem that resonates with audiences of all ages.
Upon its release, “Try Everything” received positive reviews from critics and became a commercial success, charting in multiple countries around the world. The song’s inspiring message and catchy tune made it a fan favorite and a standout track in both the film and Shakira’s discography.
With its universal themes of perseverance and resilience, “Try Everything” continues to inspire listeners and serve as a reminder to never give up on their dreams, no matter what obstacles they may face.
2. Waka Waka (This Time for Africa)
“Waka Waka (This Time for Africa)” is a song by Colombian singer Shakira, featuring South African band Freshlyground. It was released in 2010 as the official song for the FIFA World Cup held in South Africa.
“Waka Waka (This Time for Africa)” is an upbeat and energetic pop song with influences from African music genres, including Afrobeat and highlife. The song’s title and chorus are inspired by the Cameroonian military march “Zangalewa,” originally recorded by the group Golden Sounds in the late 1980s.
The lyrics of “Waka Waka (This Time for Africa)” celebrate the spirit of unity, joy, and celebration associated with the FIFA World Cup, as well as Africa’s rich cultural heritage and diversity. The song’s infectious rhythm, catchy melody, and Shakira’s vibrant vocals contributed to its widespread popularity.
The music video for “Waka Waka (This Time for Africa)” features Shakira and members of Freshlyground performing energetic choreography against colorful and vibrant backdrops, with scenes highlighting various aspects of African culture and landscapes.
“Waka Waka (This Time for Africa)” became a massive commercial success, topping the charts in numerous countries and becoming one of the best-selling singles of all time. It remains one of Shakira’s most iconic and recognizable songs, often associated with the excitement and celebration of the FIFA World Cup.
3. Whenever, Wherever
“Whenever, Wherever” is a song by Colombian singer Shakira, released in 2001 as the lead single from her third studio album, “Laundry Service”. The song is an uptempo pop track with influences from Latin and world music.
“Whenever, Wherever” is characterized by its catchy melody, infectious rhythm, and Shakira’s distinctive vocals. The lyrics of the song express themes of freedom, spontaneity, and embracing life’s adventures. The chorus, with the repeated refrain “Whenever, wherever, we’re meant to be together,” became an anthem for seizing the moment and living life to the fullest.
The song’s production features elements of Andean flute music and Arabic instrumentation, reflecting Shakira’s multicultural background and influences. “Whenever, Wherever” received widespread acclaim from music critics and became a commercial success, topping the charts in numerous countries around the world.
The music video for “Whenever, Wherever” features Shakira dancing and performing against various natural landscapes, including deserts and mountains, as well as urban cityscapes. The video’s visual imagery complements the song’s themes of freedom and exploration.
Overall, “Whenever, Wherever” is celebrated for its infectious energy, catchy melody, and Shakira’s dynamic performance. It remains one of her signature songs and a fan favorite, earning its place as one of the defining hits of the early 2000s.
4. Perro Fiel
“Perro Fiel” is a reggaeton and Latin pop song by Shakira featuring Colombian singer Maluma. Released in 2017 as part of Shakira’s eleventh studio album, “El Dorado,” the song combines catchy rhythms, sensual melodies, and energetic vocals to create a dynamic and infectious track.
“Perro Fiel,” which translates to “Faithful Dog” in English, explores themes of loyalty and commitment in a relationship. The lyrics depict a passionate and intense love, with Shakira and Maluma singing about the unwavering devotion and desire they have for each other.
The collaboration between Shakira and Maluma adds an exciting dynamic to the song, with both artists bringing their unique styles and personalities to the track. The song’s upbeat tempo, catchy chorus, and rhythmic beat make it a standout track on “El Dorado.”
Upon its release, “Perro Fiel” received positive reviews from music critics, who praised its infectious energy and the chemistry between Shakira and Maluma. The song became a commercial success, topping charts in several countries and earning platinum certification in Spain.
The accompanying music video, featuring Shakira and Maluma in a colorful and vibrant urban setting, further added to the song’s popularity. “Perro Fiel” remains a fan favorite and a memorable collaboration between two of Colombia’s biggest music stars.
5. Clandestino
“Clandestino” is a song by Shakira and Maluma, released in 2018 as a single. It is a reggaeton-infused track with elements of Latin pop and urban music. The song explores the theme of a forbidden or clandestine love affair, with the lyrics depicting the thrill and excitement of being together despite societal constraints or obstacles.
“Clandestino” features Shakira’s sultry vocals alongside Maluma’s smooth rap verses, creating a dynamic and seductive duet. The song’s infectious beat, catchy melody, and playful lyrics make it a hit with fans of Latin music.
Upon its release, “Clandestino” received positive reviews from critics and became a commercial success, topping charts in several countries. The song’s steamy music video, featuring Shakira and Maluma in exotic locations, further added to its popularity and cemented its status as one of the standout tracks in Shakira’s discography.
6. La Tortura
“La Tortura” is a song by Colombian singer Shakira, featuring Spanish singer Alejandro Sanz. It was released in 2005 as the lead single from Shakira’s sixth studio album, “Fijación Oral, Vol. 1”.
“La Tortura” is a Latin pop and reggaeton track with elements of flamenco and rock. The song’s title translates to “The Torture” in English, and it explores the emotional pain and heartbreak of a failed relationship. The lyrics depict the narrator’s anguish and frustration over being mistreated by their partner.
The song features a passionate vocal performance by both Shakira and Alejandro Sanz, with Shakira singing in Spanish and Sanz providing backing vocals and a verse in the middle of the song. The catchy melody, infectious rhythm, and intense emotions conveyed in the lyrics contributed to the song’s widespread appeal.
“La Tortura” became a massive commercial success, topping the charts in numerous Spanish-speaking countries and earning critical acclaim. The music video for the song features Shakira and Sanz performing in a surreal and colorful setting, with scenes depicting the themes of love and heartbreak.
Overall, “La Tortura” is regarded as one of Shakira’s signature songs and a standout track in her discography. It remains a fan favorite and has been praised for its catchy melody, passionate vocals, and evocative lyrics.
7. Chantaje
“Chantaje” is a song by Colombian singer Shakira, featuring Colombian singer Maluma. It was released in 2016 as the lead single from Shakira’s eleventh studio album, “El Dorado”.
“Chantaje” is a reggaeton and Latin pop track with elements of dancehall and reggae. The song’s title translates to “Blackmail” in English, and it explores themes of seduction and flirtation. The lyrics depict the playful back-and-forth between Shakira and Maluma, with Shakira singing about being tempted by Maluma’s advances.
The song features a catchy melody, infectious rhythm, and Shakira and Maluma’s dynamic vocals. The chorus of “Chantaje” contains the memorable refrain “Chantaje, chantaje,” which became a recurring motif throughout the song.
The music video for “Chantaje” features Shakira and Maluma performing in various colorful and vibrant settings, with scenes depicting the flirtatious interactions between the two artists. The video’s visual imagery and choreography complement the song’s themes of attraction and desire.
“Chantaje” received widespread acclaim from music critics and became a commercial success, topping the charts in numerous Spanish-speaking countries and earning several awards and nominations. It remains one of Shakira’s most popular and successful collaborations, known for its catchy hooks, infectious rhythm, and playful lyrics.
8. Hips Don’t Lie
“Hips Don’t Lie” is a Latin pop and reggaeton song by Shakira, featuring rapper Wyclef Jean. Released in 2006, the song became one of Shakira’s most successful singles, topping charts worldwide and becoming one of the best-selling singles of the 21st century.
“Hips Don’t Lie” is known for its infectious beat, catchy melody, and irresistible dance rhythm. The song’s lyrics celebrate the joy and sensuality of dancing, with Shakira singing about the undeniable attraction and chemistry between two people on the dance floor.
With its blend of Latin rhythms, reggaeton beats, and Shakira’s signature vocals, “Hips Don’t Lie” became a global phenomenon. The song’s memorable chorus and iconic hook made it an instant hit, earning it widespread acclaim from both critics and fans.
The accompanying music video, featuring Shakira’s energetic dance moves and vibrant visuals, further contributed to the song’s success. “Hips Don’t Lie” became a cultural phenomenon, inspiring countless dance covers, parodies, and memes.
With its infectious energy and universal appeal, “Hips Don’t Lie” remains one of Shakira’s most iconic and beloved songs, continuing to delight audiences and fill dance floors around the world.
9. 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 an electro-pop and dance-pop track with elements of synth-pop and disco. “She Wolf” features a pulsating beat, catchy hooks, and Shakira’s distinctive vocals. Lyrically, the song explores themes of female empowerment and independence, with Shakira singing about embracing her wild and free-spirited nature.
The chorus of “She Wolf” contains the memorable refrain “There’s a she wolf in the closet, open up and set her free,” which became a metaphor for breaking free from societal constraints and embracing one’s true self.
The music video for “She Wolf” features Shakira dancing in a surreal and futuristic setting, with scenes depicting her transformation into a she-wolf. The video’s visual imagery and choreography complement the song’s themes of liberation and self-expression.
“She Wolf” received positive reviews from music critics and became a commercial success, topping the charts in numerous countries around the world. It remains one of Shakira’s most popular and iconic songs, known for its infectious energy, catchy melody, and empowering message.
10. Can’t Remember to Forget You
“Can’t Remember to Forget You” is a pop-rock and reggae fusion song by Shakira featuring Barbadian singer Rihanna. Released in 2014 as the lead single from Shakira’s self-titled album, the song combines catchy melodies, rhythmic guitar riffs, and sultry vocals to create an infectious and memorable track.
“Can’t Remember to Forget You” explores themes of love, desire, and longing, with the lyrics depicting the struggles of trying to move on from a past relationship. Despite the efforts to forget, the memories of the past lover persist, leading to a sense of frustration and confusion.
The collaboration between Shakira and Rihanna adds a dynamic element to the song, with both artists showcasing their vocal talents and chemistry. The song’s upbeat tempo, catchy hooks, and rhythmic groove make it a standout track in Shakira’s discography.
Upon its release, “Can’t Remember to Forget You” received positive reviews from music critics, who praised its catchy melody and the chemistry between Shakira and Rihanna. The song became a commercial success, charting in the top 10 in numerous countries around the world.
The accompanying music video, featuring Shakira and Rihanna in various glamorous and playful scenes, further added to the song’s popularity. “Can’t Remember to Forget You” continues to be a fan favorite and a memorable collaboration between two of the biggest names in pop music.