Shakira, the Colombian sensation, has captivated global audiences for decades with her irresistible blend of pop, rock, and Latin rhythms. As one of the most iconic and influential artists of her generation, her discography is a treasure trove of chart-toppers and timeless classics. In this article, we embark on a musical journey to celebrate Shakira’s unparalleled talent by exploring the top 10 best songs that have defined her illustrious career. From her early breakthroughs to her latest hits, each track showcases her unique vocal prowess, electrifying stage presence, and unmatched ability to infuse passion into every lyric. Whether she’s seducing listeners with her signature hip-shaking anthems or delivering powerful ballads that tug at the heartstrings, Shakira’s music transcends language and culture, resonating with fans across the globe. Join us as we reminisce about the songs that have soundtracked our lives, inspired countless dance parties, and solidified Shakira’s status as a pop music icon. From “Hips Don’t Lie” to “Waka Waka (This Time for Africa),” these songs are not just melodies; they are milestones in the musical legacy of a true superstar.
1. Whenever, Wherever
“Whenever, Wherever” stands as an emblem of Shakira’s global appeal, capturing hearts with its infectious rhythm and empowering lyrics. Released in 2001, it swiftly ascended the charts, becoming an anthem for wanderlust souls and romantics alike. With its fusion of rock, pop, and Andean influences, the song showcases Shakira’s distinctive style, marked by her evocative vocals and mesmerizing belly dance moves.
The track’s universal theme of seizing the moment resonates across cultures, inviting listeners to embrace spontaneity and adventure. Its memorable chorus, paired with Shakira’s signature ululations, creates an irresistible energy that transcends language barriers. Whether blasting through speakers in a bustling city or playing on radios in remote villages, “Whenever, Wherever” has become synonymous with joyous celebration and freedom.
Beyond its commercial success, the song’s impact extends to pop culture, inspiring countless covers, dance routines, and even memes. Its enduring popularity has solidified its place as one of Shakira’s most iconic and beloved songs, earning it the top spot among her illustrious discography. “Whenever, Wherever” continues to ignite passion and ignite a sense of wanderlust in listeners worldwide, cementing its status as a timeless classic.
2. La Tortura (feat. Alejandro Sanz)
“La Tortura,” featuring Alejandro Sanz, is a fiery testament to Shakira’s prowess as both a vocalist and a storyteller. Released in 2005, this dynamic collaboration stormed the airwaves with its blend of Latin pop and flamenco flair. The song’s title, meaning “The Torture” in English, hints at its intense emotional journey, exploring themes of heartbreak, resilience, and empowerment.
With its pulsating beat and passionate lyrics, “La Tortura” transports listeners to a world of raw emotion and longing. Shakira’s sultry vocals intertwine effortlessly with Sanz’s soulful delivery, creating a powerful musical dialogue that resonates long after the song ends. The accompanying music video, set in a surreal desert landscape, further amplifies the song’s intensity, capturing the tumultuous nature of love and loss.
“La Tortura” became an instant sensation, topping charts around the globe and earning critical acclaim for its bold sonic experimentation. Its infectious melody and irresistible hooks ensured its place as a staple in Shakira’s repertoire, captivating audiences with its timeless appeal. More than just a hit song, “La Tortura” remains a testament to Shakira’s ability to infuse passion and authenticity into her music, solidifying its status as one of her most iconic and enduring tracks.
3. She Wolf
“She Wolf” is a pulsating anthem that perfectly encapsulates Shakira’s signature blend of sensuality and empowerment. Released in 2009, this electro-pop gem quickly ascended to the upper echelons of music charts worldwide, cementing its status as one of Shakira’s most iconic tracks. The song’s infectious beats, coupled with its catchy chorus and hypnotic synths, create an irresistible sonic landscape that beckons listeners to the dance floor.
Lyrically, “She Wolf” explores themes of freedom, self-discovery, and unapologetic femininity. Shakira’s lyrics vividly paint a picture of a woman embracing her primal instincts and breaking free from societal constraints, declaring her independence with unabashed confidence. The song’s provocative imagery and bold declarations make it a rallying cry for self-empowerment and liberation.
“She Wolf” also boasts a visually striking music video that further enhances its appeal. Featuring Shakira’s mesmerizing choreography and striking visuals, the video perfectly complements the song’s fierce energy and showcases Shakira’s unparalleled stage presence.
With its irresistible hooks and empowering message, “She Wolf” has rightfully earned its place as one of Shakira’s most beloved and enduring songs, captivating audiences around the globe and solidifying its status as a timeless classic.
4. Underneath Your Clothes
“Underneath Your Clothes” stands as a tender ode to love’s vulnerability and depth, showcasing Shakira’s ability to infuse heartfelt emotion into her music. Released in 2002 as part of her album “Laundry Service,” this ballad swiftly captured hearts worldwide with its poignant lyrics and soul-stirring melody.
At its core, “Underneath Your Clothes” is a testament to the profound connection shared between two souls, transcending superficiality and baring the raw essence of affection. Shakira’s poetic lyrics tenderly express the depth of her devotion, as she eloquently unravels the layers of intimacy and trust that bind her to her beloved.
Musically, the song’s gentle acoustic guitar chords and understated instrumentation provide the perfect backdrop for Shakira’s emotive vocals to shine. Her heartfelt delivery infuses each word with sincerity, drawing listeners into the intimate world she paints with her lyrics.
“Underneath Your Clothes” is more than just a love song; it’s a timeless declaration of affection that resonates with anyone who has ever experienced the profound beauty of being truly seen and cherished. With its universal appeal and timeless sentiment, this song has rightfully earned its place as one of Shakira’s most cherished and enduring classics.
5. Can’t Remember to Forget You (feat. Rihanna)
“Can’t Remember to Forget You,” featuring Rihanna, marks a dynamic collaboration between two powerhouse artists, resulting in a chart-topping hit that captivated audiences worldwide upon its release in 2014. Fusing elements of rock, reggae, and pop, this infectious track showcases Shakira and Rihanna’s unmatched chemistry and vocal prowess.
From the opening guitar riff to the pulsating rhythm that drives the song forward, “Can’t Remember to Forget You” exudes an irresistible energy that demands attention. The catchy melody and infectious hooks linger in the mind long after the song has ended, making it an instant favorite among fans of both artists.
Lyrically, the song explores the tumultuous emotions of a passionate but volatile relationship, as Shakira and Rihanna trade verses detailing the struggle to move on from a past love. Their emotive delivery adds depth and authenticity to the narrative, resonating with listeners who have experienced the highs and lows of love and heartbreak.
The accompanying music video further enhances the song’s impact, showcasing Shakira and Rihanna’s undeniable charisma and magnetic stage presence. With its sultry visuals and electrifying performances, the video perfectly complements the song’s fiery intensity.
“Can’t Remember to Forget You” stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of Shakira and Rihanna, as well as their ability to create music that transcends genres and resonates with audiences around the globe. With its infectious energy and powerful vocals, this collaboration remains a standout in both artists’ illustrious careers.
6. Loca (feat. Dizzee Rascal)
“Loca,” featuring Dizzee Rascal, is a vibrant and infectious anthem that pulsates with the rhythmic energy of Latin beats and hip-hop influences. Released in 2010, this collaboration between Shakira and Dizzee Rascal quickly became a global sensation, captivating audiences with its irresistible groove and catchy hooks.
From the moment the song kicks off with its infectious trumpet riff, “Loca” transports listeners to a world of carefree abandon and uninhibited revelry. Shakira’s dynamic vocals effortlessly glide over the pulsating rhythm, exuding an intoxicating blend of confidence and playfulness.
Lyrically, “Loca” celebrates the exhilarating rush of living in the moment and embracing spontaneity. Shakira’s lyrics paint a vivid picture of a free spirit who thrives on adventure and excitement, while Dizzee Rascal’s rap verse adds an extra layer of urban flair to the track.
The accompanying music video further enhances the song’s festive vibe, featuring Shakira dancing through the streets of Barcelona with infectious joy and infectious energy. With its vibrant visuals and infectious rhythm, the video perfectly captures the essence of the song’s carefree spirit.
“Loca” stands as a testament to Shakira’s versatility as an artist and her ability to seamlessly blend different musical styles to create something truly unique. With its infectious energy and irresistible charm, this collaboration remains a standout in Shakira’s extensive catalog of hits, continuing to delight listeners around the world with its infectious groove.
7. Chantaje (feat. Maluma)
“Chantaje,” featuring Maluma, is a sizzling collaboration that fuses reggaeton with pop sensibilities, resulting in a steamy and irresistible track that took the world by storm upon its release in 2016. This fiery anthem showcases Shakira and Maluma’s undeniable chemistry and magnetic charisma, drawing listeners in with its infectious rhythm and seductive allure.
From the moment the song begins, with its pulsating beat and catchy hooks, “Chantaje” exudes an irresistible energy that demands attention. Shakira’s sultry vocals intertwine seamlessly with Maluma’s smooth delivery, creating a captivating duet that oozes with passion and intensity.
Lyrically, “Chantaje” explores the dynamics of desire and seduction, as Shakira and Maluma playfully tease each other with flirtatious banter. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a tantalizing game of cat and mouse, as they playfully negotiate the terms of their attraction.
The accompanying music video further enhances the song’s seductive vibe, featuring Shakira and Maluma in a series of steamy and stylish visuals that perfectly capture the song’s sensual energy. With its provocative imagery and infectious rhythm, the video adds an extra layer of allure to the already captivating track.
“Chantaje” stands as a testament to Shakira and Maluma’s star power and their ability to create music that resonates with audiences on a global scale. With its irresistible beat and undeniable charm, this collaboration continues to heat up dance floors around the world, solidifying its status as a modern classic in the world of Latin pop.
8. Objection (Tango)
“Objection (Tango)” is a dynamic fusion of rock and tango that showcases Shakira’s versatility and electrifying stage presence. Released in 2002 as part of her album “Laundry Service,” this fiery track instantly captivated audiences with its infectious energy and bold attitude.
From the opening bars of the tango-infused guitar riff to the pulsating rhythm that drives the song forward, “Objection (Tango)” exudes a raw and unbridled passion that demands attention. Shakira’s vocals are filled with intensity and urgency as she delivers the song’s provocative lyrics with fierce conviction.
Lyrically, “Objection (Tango)” explores themes of love and betrayal, as Shakira unleashes a torrent of emotions in response to a tumultuous relationship. Her lyrics are filled with vivid imagery and poetic wordplay, painting a vivid picture of a woman scorned who refuses to be silenced.
The accompanying music video further enhances the song’s impact, featuring Shakira in a series of dramatic and visually striking scenes that perfectly capture the song’s passionate energy. With its cinematic flair and bold aesthetic, the video adds an extra layer of depth to the song’s narrative.
“Objection (Tango)” stands as a testament to Shakira’s fearless approach to music and her willingness to push boundaries and defy expectations. With its electrifying blend of rock and tango, this track remains a standout in Shakira’s extensive catalog, continuing to thrill audiences with its infectious energy and undeniable charisma.
9. Hips Don’t Lie (feat. Wyclef Jean)
“Hips Don’t Lie,” featuring Wyclef Jean, is a high-energy, Latin-infused anthem that skyrocketed to the top of charts worldwide upon its release in 2006. This iconic collaboration between Shakira and Wyclef Jean became an instant classic, captivating audiences with its infectious rhythm and irresistible charm.
From the moment the song begins with its iconic trumpet intro, “Hips Don’t Lie” exudes a vibrant energy that is impossible to resist. Shakira’s dynamic vocals effortlessly glide over the pulsating beat, while Wyclef Jean’s smooth rap verse adds an extra layer of swagger to the track.
Lyrically, “Hips Don’t Lie” celebrates the power and sensuality of dance, as Shakira sings about the irresistible allure of a woman’s movements. The lyrics are playful and flirtatious, painting a vivid picture of a dance floor filled with passion and excitement.
The accompanying music video further enhances the song’s infectious vibe, featuring Shakira and Wyclef Jean dancing with infectious joy and charisma. With its colorful visuals and dynamic choreography, the video perfectly captures the song’s celebratory spirit and playful energy.
“Hips Don’t Lie” stands as a testament to Shakira’s ability to blend different musical styles with effortless ease, creating a sound that is uniquely her own. With its irresistible rhythm and catchy hooks, this collaboration remains a timeless favorite, continuing to get hips shaking on dance floors around the world.
10. Waka Waka (This Time for Africa)
“Waka Waka (This Time for Africa)” is an electrifying anthem that became the soundtrack of the 2010 FIFA World Cup, capturing the hearts of millions around the globe with its infectious rhythm and uplifting message. Sung by Shakira, this vibrant track combines elements of pop, African beats, and Colombian flavor, creating a celebration of unity and resilience.
From its pulsating African drums to its catchy chorus, “Waka Waka” exudes an irresistible energy that transcends borders and languages. Shakira’s powerful vocals soar over the vibrant instrumentation, delivering a message of hope and determination that resonates with listeners of all ages.
Lyrically, “Waka Waka” embodies the spirit of perseverance and triumph in the face of adversity. The lyrics encourage unity and solidarity, urging people to come together and embrace their collective strength.
The accompanying music video further amplifies the song’s message of unity, featuring vibrant visuals of people from diverse cultures coming together to celebrate the joy of music and sport. With its colorful imagery and dynamic choreography, the video perfectly captures the song’s infectious energy and positive spirit.
“Waka Waka (This Time for Africa)” not only became one of Shakira’s biggest hits but also left a lasting impact as an anthem of hope and solidarity. Its universal appeal and uplifting message continue to inspire audiences around the world, making it a timeless classic for generations to come.
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.
