Shakira is a Colombian singer, songwriter, and dancer who gained international fame for her distinctive voice, energetic performances, and fusion of Latin, pop, and rock music styles. Born in 1977 in Barranquilla, Colombia, Shakira released her first album at the age of 13 and quickly rose to prominence in Latin America. Her breakthrough into the global music scene came with albums like “Laundry Service” (2001) and “Fijación Oral, Vol. 1” (2005), which featured hit singles such as “Whenever, Wherever” and “La Tortura.” Shakira’s music often incorporates themes of love, empowerment, and social justice, and she is celebrated for her philanthropy and advocacy work.
1. Try Everything
“Try Everything” is a song performed by Shakira for the soundtrack of the animated film “Zootopia” (2016). It’s an upbeat pop song that encourages resilience, perseverance, and embracing life’s challenges. The lyrics convey a message of optimism and determination, urging listeners to keep trying, learning from failures, and moving forward despite obstacles. Shakira’s vibrant vocals and the song’s catchy melody made “Try Everything” a popular and motivational anthem, resonating with audiences of all ages. The song’s positive message aligns with the film’s themes of empowerment and embracing diversity, contributing to its success both on screen and in the music charts.
2. 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 the official song for the 2010 FIFA World Cup held in South Africa. The song blends pop with African rhythms and was well-received globally for its catchy beat and uplifting lyrics, celebrating unity, perseverance, and the spirit of the World Cup. “Waka Waka” became a massive hit, topping charts in numerous countries and becoming one of the best-selling singles of all time. Its accompanying music video, featuring vibrant visuals and energetic dance routines, further solidified its popularity and cultural impact.
3. Whenever, Wherever
“Whenever, Wherever” is a song by Shakira, released in 2001 as the lead single from her third studio album, “Laundry Service.” It’s a Latin pop and worldbeat song that became a global hit and helped Shakira gain international recognition.
Lyrically, “Whenever, Wherever” explores themes of love, freedom, and the unpredictability of life’s journey. The lyrics express Shakira’s adventurous spirit and her willingness to embrace love wherever it may take her: “Whenever, wherever, we’re meant to be together / I’ll be there and you’ll be near, and that’s the deal my dear.”
Musically, “Whenever, Wherever” features a distinctive blend of Latin rhythms, rock guitars, and Middle Eastern influences, creating a unique and infectious sound. The song’s production incorporates elements of world music, with Shakira’s energetic vocals and passionate delivery adding to its dynamic and uplifting vibe.
“Whenever, Wherever” received critical acclaim for its catchy melody, Shakira’s impressive vocal performance, and its multicultural appeal. The song topped charts in numerous countries and became one of Shakira’s signature songs. Its iconic music video, featuring Shakira’s belly dancing and captivating visuals in exotic locations, further propelled its popularity and solidified its status as a global anthem of empowerment and adventure.
Overall, “Whenever, Wherever” remains a landmark song in Shakira’s career, showcasing her talent as a singer-songwriter and her ability to blend diverse musical influences into a cohesive and memorable hit. It continues to resonate with audiences worldwide and is celebrated for its infectious energy and positive message.
4. Perro Fiel
“Perro Fiel” is a song by Shakira featuring Nicky Jam, released in 2017 as part of her eleventh studio album, “El Dorado.” Sung in Spanish, “Perro Fiel” translates to “Faithful Dog” in English. The song is a reggaeton and dancehall-inspired track that explores themes of loyalty and passion in relationships. Shakira’s collaboration with Nicky Jam brought together their distinct styles, blending Shakira’s emotive vocals with Nicky Jam’s rhythmic flow. “Perro Fiel” received positive reviews for its infectious beat and catchy chorus, contributing to the success of “El Dorado,” which earned Shakira critical acclaim and commercial success.
5. Clandestino
“Clandestino” is a song by Shakira and Maluma, released in 2018 as a single from Shakira’s album “El Dorado.” It’s a reggaeton and Latin pop song that explores themes of love, desire, and secrecy.
Lyrically, “Clandestino” tells the story of a forbidden romance, where Shakira and Maluma sing about meeting in secret and the thrill of being together despite the obstacles: “Baby, we’re so high / Walking on cloud nine every time you’re touching me that way.”
Musically, “Clandestino” features a sultry and rhythmic production with infectious reggaeton beats, catchy hooks, and a blend of acoustic and electronic elements. Shakira and Maluma’s vocals complement each other, creating a dynamic and passionate duet that captures the intensity of their clandestine affair.
“Clandestino” received positive reviews for its sensual lyrics, infectious melody, and the chemistry between Shakira and Maluma. The song became a commercial success, topping charts in Latin America and gaining popularity internationally. Its music video, featuring Shakira and Maluma in exotic and romantic settings, further enhanced its appeal and contributed to its status as a standout track on “El Dorado.”
Overall, “Clandestino” showcases Shakira’s ability to create captivating and danceable music while exploring themes of romance and desire. It remains a favorite among fans of reggaeton and Latin pop, highlighting Shakira’s enduring influence in the music industry.
6. La Tortura
“La Tortura” is a song by Shakira featuring Alejandro Sanz, released in 2005 as part of Shakira’s sixth studio album, “Fijación Oral, Vol. 1.” The song, sung in Spanish, is a mix of reggaeton and Latin pop that explores the pain and heartache of a difficult breakup. “La Tortura,” which translates to “The Torture” in English, showcases Shakira’s powerful vocals and Alejandro Sanz’s distinctive voice, blending their styles seamlessly. The song’s passionate lyrics and catchy melody resonated with audiences worldwide, topping charts in Latin America and Spain, and earning critical acclaim for its emotive storytelling and musical fusion.
7. Chantaje
“Chantaje” is a song by Shakira featuring Maluma, released in 2016 as a single from Shakira’s eleventh studio album, “El Dorado.” It’s a reggaeton and Latin pop song that became a major hit and garnered widespread acclaim for its catchy melody and sensual vibe.
Lyrically, “Chantaje” explores themes of seduction and desire. The lyrics depict a playful and flirtatious dynamic between Shakira and Maluma, with Shakira singing about being enticed by Maluma’s charms and playfully teasing him: “Tú eres puro, puro chantaje / Puro, puro chantaje” (You’re pure, pure blackmail / Pure, pure blackmail).
Musically, “Chantaje” features a vibrant and infectious production with reggaeton beats, catchy hooks, and a rhythmic blend of acoustic and electronic elements. Shakira and Maluma’s vocals blend seamlessly, creating a dynamic and sensual duet that captures the playful and flirtatious nature of their relationship.
“Chantaje” was a commercial success, topping charts in Latin America and reaching high positions on international music charts. Its music video, featuring Shakira and Maluma in a vibrant and colorful setting, further enhanced its popularity and contributed to its status as one of the standout tracks on “El Dorado.”
Overall, “Chantaje” exemplifies Shakira’s ability to blend Latin rhythms with contemporary pop influences while showcasing her distinctive voice and charisma. It remains a fan favorite and a testament to Shakira’s enduring impact on the Latin pop and reggaeton genres.
8. Hips Don’t Lie
“Hips Don’t Lie” is a hit song by Shakira featuring Wyclef Jean, released in 2006 as part of Shakira’s seventh studio album, “Oral Fixation, Vol. 2.” The song is a lively blend of reggaeton, Latin pop, and hip hop, characterized by its infectious beat, catchy chorus, and Shakira’s distinctive vocals. “Hips Don’t Lie” became a global sensation, topping charts in numerous countries and becoming one of the best-selling singles of the 21st century. The song’s music video, showcasing Shakira’s iconic dance moves and energetic performance, further contributed to its popularity and cemented its status as one of Shakira’s signature songs.
9. She Wolf
“She Wolf” is a song by Shakira, released in 2009 as the lead single from her third English-language studio album of the same name. It’s an electropop and dance-pop song that showcases Shakira’s unique vocal style and artistic experimentation.
Lyrically, “She Wolf” explores themes of liberation, independence, and female empowerment. The lyrics depict Shakira embracing her primal instincts and exploring her wild side, likening herself to a she-wolf: “There’s a she wolf in the closet / Open up and set it free.” The song’s provocative and metaphorical lyrics challenge societal norms and celebrate individuality and self-expression.
Musically, “She Wolf” features a pulsating electronic beat, catchy hooks, and Shakira’s distinctive vocals that range from seductive whispers to powerful belting. The song’s production blends elements of pop, dance, and electro-funk, creating a futuristic and energetic sound that reflects Shakira’s artistic evolution and willingness to experiment with different genres.
“She Wolf” received positive reviews from critics for its infectious melody, innovative production, and Shakira’s dynamic performance. The song was a commercial success, reaching the top 10 on music charts in various countries and solidifying Shakira’s status as a global pop icon. Its music video, featuring Shakira in a mesmerizing and surreal dance routine, further enhanced its popularity and visual impact.
Overall, “She Wolf” remains a memorable and influential song in Shakira’s discography, showcasing her versatility as an artist and her ability to push creative boundaries while delivering catchy and empowering music to her fans.
10. Can’t Remember to Forget You
“Can’t Remember to Forget You” is a song by Shakira featuring Rihanna, released in 2014 as part of Shakira’s self-titled album. The song is a catchy blend of pop and reggae rock, characterized by its upbeat tempo, infectious melody, and the dynamic vocals of both Shakira and Rihanna. “Can’t Remember to Forget You” explores themes of love, longing, and the struggle to move on from a past relationship. The collaboration between Shakira and Rihanna brought together their unique styles, creating a memorable and energetic track that resonated with audiences worldwide.