Shakira is a Colombian singer, songwriter, and dancer known for her distinctive voice, eclectic musical style, and energetic performances. Born in 1977 in Barranquilla, Colombia, Shakira gained international fame with her breakthrough single “Whenever, Wherever” in 2001, which blended Latin, pop, and rock influences. She continued to achieve success with albums like “Laundry Service,” “Oral Fixation,” and “She Wolf,” showcasing her versatility in genres ranging from Latin pop to reggaeton and dance-pop. Shakira is renowned for her philanthropic work, particularly in education and children’s welfare through her Barefoot Foundation. She remains a global icon and has won multiple Grammy Awards and other accolades for her contributions to music and culture.
1. Whenever, Wherever
“Whenever, Wherever” is a pop song by Shakira, released in 2001 as the lead single from her first English-language album, “Laundry Service.” The song combines elements of Latin pop and world music, featuring Shakira’s distinctive vocals and upbeat instrumentation. “Whenever, Wherever” became a worldwide hit, topping charts in numerous countries and establishing Shakira as an international superstar. The song’s infectious melody, catchy chorus, and iconic music video, featuring Shakira dancing in various natural landscapes, contributed to its immense popularity. “Whenever, Wherever” remains one of Shakira’s most recognizable and successful songs, showcasing her unique style and crossover appeal.
2. La Tortura (feat. Alejandro Sanz)
“La Tortura” is a song by Shakira featuring Alejandro Sanz, released in 2005 as the lead single from Shakira’s album “Fijación Oral, Vol. 1.” The song is a blend of Latin pop and reggaeton influences, characterized by its passionate lyrics and rhythmic beat. “La Tortura” explores themes of heartbreak and emotional pain, with Shakira and Alejandro Sanz delivering powerful vocal performances that convey intense emotions. The song’s music video, which features Shakira in a surreal and artistic setting, further enhanced its popularity. “La Tortura” was a commercial success, topping charts in multiple countries and earning critical acclaim for its catchy melody and infectious energy.
3. She Wolf
“She Wolf” is a dance-pop and electropop song by Shakira, released in 2009 as the lead single from her album of the same name. The song features a pulsating beat, synth-driven production, and Shakira’s distinctive vocals. “She Wolf” explores themes of liberation and self-discovery, with Shakira portraying a woman embracing her wild and independent side. The song’s catchy chorus and infectious energy contributed to its commercial success, charting well internationally and becoming a favorite among Shakira’s fans. The accompanying music video, featuring Shakira in a surreal and playful setting, further enhanced the song’s popularity and established “She Wolf” as a standout track in Shakira’s discography.
4. Underneath Your Clothes
“Underneath Your Clothes” is a heartfelt pop rock song by Shakira, released in 2002 as part of her album “Laundry Service.” The song showcases Shakira’s emotive vocals and introspective lyrics, exploring themes of love, vulnerability, and intimacy.
Lyrically, “Underneath Your Clothes” expresses a deep connection and admiration for a romantic partner, emphasizing the beauty found beyond physical appearances. The song’s melody is melodic and gentle, complementing Shakira’s passionate delivery.
“Underneath Your Clothes” became a commercial success, reaching high positions on international charts and further establishing Shakira as a versatile and talented artist in both English and Spanish-speaking markets. Its sentimental lyrics and catchy melody have made it a fan favorite and a standout track in Shakira’s discography.
5. Can’t Remember to Forget You (feat. Rihanna)
“Can’t Remember to Forget You” is a lively pop and rock song by Shakira featuring Rihanna, released in 2014. The song blends Shakira’s Latin pop influences with Rihanna’s R&B style, creating an energetic and infectious track. Lyrically, the song explores the struggle of trying to move on from a past lover while still being drawn to their memory.
The collaboration between Shakira and Rihanna showcases their vocal chemistry and dynamic performances. “Can’t Remember to Forget You” received positive reviews for its catchy melody, playful lyrics, and the chemistry between the two artists. The accompanying music video, featuring Shakira and Rihanna in various glamorous and playful settings, further emphasized the song’s themes of attraction and nostalgia.
The song achieved commercial success, charting in multiple countries and solidifying its place as a memorable collaboration between two pop superstars.
6. Loca (feat. Dizzee Rascal)
“Loca” is an upbeat Latin pop song by Shakira featuring British rapper Dizzee Rascal, released in 2010. The song is known for its infectious rhythm, catchy melody, and Shakira’s dynamic vocals. “Loca” blends elements of merengue and reggaeton music, creating a vibrant and danceable track that highlights Shakira’s versatility as an artist.
Lyrically, “Loca” expresses the excitement and carefree nature of being in love and enjoying life to the fullest. Dizzee Rascal’s guest rap verse adds a contemporary edge to the song, complementing Shakira’s spirited performance.
The song’s music video, directed by Jaume de Laiguana, features Shakira dancing in various colorful and energetic settings, further emphasizing the song’s lively atmosphere and Latin influences.
“Loca” achieved commercial success, topping charts in several countries and becoming a fan favorite. It showcases Shakira’s ability to blend Latin and pop music genres while delivering an infectious and memorable hit.
7. Chantaje (feat. Maluma)
“Chantaje” is a reggaeton and Latin pop song by Shakira featuring Colombian singer Maluma, released in 2016. The song is characterized by its catchy reggaeton beat, sensual lyrics, and the chemistry between Shakira and Maluma.
Lyrically, “Chantaje” explores themes of seduction and playful blackmail in a relationship, with Shakira and Maluma exchanging flirtatious verses in Spanish. The song’s infectious melody and danceable rhythm contributed to its popularity across Latin America and beyond.
The music video for “Chantaje” features Shakira and Maluma in a vibrant and colorful setting, showcasing their charisma and dance moves. The video’s visual appeal, coupled with the song’s catchy hooks, helped propel “Chantaje” to commercial success, topping charts in numerous countries.
“Chantaje” further solidified Shakira’s status as a global pop icon and demonstrated her ability to collaborate with emerging Latin artists, such as Maluma, to create memorable and chart-topping hits.
8. Objection (Tango)
“Objection (Tango)” is an energetic pop rock song by Shakira, released in 2001 as part of her album “Laundry Service.” The song incorporates elements of tango music, infused with Shakira’s distinctive rock and pop style.
Lyrically, “Objection (Tango)” expresses defiance and passion in a tumultuous relationship, with Shakira’s fiery vocals conveying the intensity of conflicting emotions. The song features dramatic instrumentation, including electric guitars and accordion, which contribute to its dynamic and theatrical atmosphere.
The accompanying music video for “Objection (Tango)” showcases Shakira’s energetic dancing and expressive performance, further emphasizing the song’s themes of passion and rebellion.
“Objection (Tango)” was well-received by critics and became a commercial success, solidifying Shakira’s international popularity and establishing her as a versatile artist capable of blending different musical genres with her own unique flair.
9. Hips Don’t Lie (feat. Wyclef Jean)
“Hips Don’t Lie” is a Latin pop and reggaeton song by Shakira featuring Wyclef Jean, released in 2006. It became one of Shakira’s biggest hits, topping charts worldwide and receiving critical acclaim for its infectious rhythm and energetic performance. The song’s lyrics celebrate dancing and sensuality, with Shakira’s dynamic vocals and Wyclef Jean’s rap adding to its vibrant atmosphere. “Hips Don’t Lie” incorporates elements of Colombian and Caribbean music, showcasing Shakira’s ability to blend different genres seamlessly. The song’s music video, featuring Shakira’s charismatic dance moves, further solidified its status as a cultural phenomenon and remains one of her most iconic songs.
10. Waka Waka (This Time for Africa)
“Waka Waka (This Time for Africa)” is a song by Shakira featuring the South African band Freshlyground, released in 2010 as the official anthem for the FIFA World Cup held in South Africa. The song is a fusion of pop and African rhythms, with lyrics celebrating unity, perseverance, and the spirit of the World Cup. “Waka Waka” became a global phenomenon, topping charts in numerous countries and becoming one of the best-selling singles of all time. Its upbeat tempo, infectious chorus, and Shakira’s energetic vocals made it a favorite among fans and a symbol of international solidarity through sport.