Shakira, born Shakira Isabel Mebarak Ripoll on February 2, 1977, in Barranquilla, Colombia, is a global pop and Latin music icon known for her distinctive voice, energetic performances, and fusion of musical styles. She first gained widespread recognition with her 1995 album *Pies Descalzos* and achieved international fame with the release of *Laundry Service* in 2001, which featured the hit singles “Whenever, Wherever” and “Underneath Your Clothes.”
Shakira’s music blends Latin, rock, and pop influences, and she is celebrated for her unique vocal style and dance moves, including her signature hip-shaking performances. Her 2005 single “Hips Don’t Lie,” featuring Wyclef Jean, became a massive global hit. Shakira has won numerous awards, including Grammy and Latin Grammy Awards, and is known for her philanthropic work, particularly through her foundation, Pies Descalzos, which supports education for underprivileged children.
1. Try Everything
“Try Everything” is a song by Shakira from the soundtrack of the 2016 animated film *Zootopia*. Written by Sia, Christian Lo bianco, and Greg Kurstin, the song carries an uplifting and motivational message about perseverance and resilience. It emphasizes the importance of continuing to strive and try, even in the face of challenges and setbacks.
The song’s lyrics encourage listeners to keep pushing forward and not give up, embodying the film’s themes of determination and self-belief. “Try Everything” received positive reviews for its inspiring message and Shakira’s energetic performance. It became a popular anthem for both the movie and its audience, contributing to the film’s overall success.
2. Waka Waka (This Time for Africa)
“Waka Waka (This Time for Africa)” is a song by Shakira, released as the official song for the 2010 FIFA World Cup held in South Africa. Featuring the South African band Freshlyground, the song was written by Shakira, John Hill, and the production duo of the same name. It incorporates elements of African music, including traditional rhythms and chants, blending them with Shakira’s distinctive pop style.
The lyrics and upbeat rhythm capture the spirit of the World Cup, encouraging unity and celebration. “Waka Waka” became a global hit, topping charts in multiple countries and resonating with fans worldwide. Its vibrant music video, featuring Shakira’s energetic dance moves and scenes from the World Cup, further amplified its popularity. The song remains one of Shakira’s most successful and iconic tracks, celebrated for its infectious energy and cultural significance.
3. Whenever, Wherever
“Whenever, Wherever” by Shakira is a lively, upbeat song released in 2001 as the lead single from her album “Laundry Service.” The track features a blend of Latin pop and rock influences, characterized by its catchy melody, infectious rhythm, and Shakira’s distinctive vocal style. The song’s lyrics celebrate a carefree and passionate love, with Shakira’s playful delivery and upbeat production creating an energetic and joyous atmosphere. “Whenever, Wherever” became a major international hit, catapulting Shakira to global stardom and establishing her as a prominent figure in pop music. Its blend of catchy hooks and vibrant instrumentation made it a defining song of the early 2000s.
4. Perro Fiel
“Perro Fiel” by Shakira, featuring Nicky Jam, is a reggaeton and Latin pop track from her 2017 album “El Dorado.” The song features a catchy, danceable rhythm with a blend of reggaeton beats and Shakira’s signature vocal style. Lyrically, “Perro Fiel” explores themes of loyalty and unrequited love, using the metaphor of a faithful dog to convey the singer’s devotion. Nicky Jam’s contribution adds a dynamic touch with his smooth rap verses. The track’s vibrant production and infectious energy make it a standout in Shakira’s discography, showcasing her ability to blend Latin rhythms with contemporary pop influences.
5. Clandestino
“Clandestino” is a song by the Colombian singer Shakira from her 1998 album *Dónde Están los Ladrones?*. Written by Shakira and Luis Fernando Ochoa, the track features a blend of Latin rock and pop with a prominent acoustic guitar riff. The song’s lyrics explore themes of clandestine love and longing, expressing feelings of secrecy and forbidden romance.
“Clandestino” showcases Shakira’s unique vocal style and lyrical depth, contributing to the album’s overall success and her growing international reputation. The song’s emotive performance and compelling melody are characteristic of Shakira’s early work, reflecting her ability to fuse various musical influences into her distinctive sound.
6. La Tortura
“La Tortura” by Shakira featuring Alejandro Sanz is a 2005 hit from her album “Fijación Oral, Vol. 1.” This track blends reggaeton with traditional Latin rhythms, creating a compelling and danceable sound. The song’s lyrics deal with the pain of a breakup and the emotional struggle of moving on, with Shakira’s passionate delivery and Alejandro Sanz’s smooth vocals complementing each other throughout the track. The music video, featuring vibrant choreography and vivid imagery, further enhances the song’s impact. “La Tortura” became a major international hit, showcasing Shakira’s ability to fuse different musical styles and resonate with a global audience.
7. Chantaje
“Chantaje” is a song by Colombian singer Shakira featuring Puerto Rican reggaeton artist Maluma. Released on November 18, 2016, the track is a sultry reggaeton and Latin pop fusion that explores themes of love, desire, and flirtation. Written by Shakira, Maluma, and the production team of the same name, the song’s title translates to “Blackmail” in English, and its lyrics playfully depict a scenario where emotional manipulation and desire are central themes.
The song received widespread acclaim for its catchy rhythm, infectious beat, and the chemistry between Shakira and Maluma. “Chantaje” became a major hit across Latin America and beyond, topping charts in several countries and earning accolades for its vibrant production and memorable hook. The accompanying music video, featuring Shakira and Maluma in a visually striking, cinematic setting, further contributed to the song’s popularity.
8. Hips Don’t Lie
“Hips Don’t Lie” is a song by Shakira featuring Wyclef Jean, released in 2006 as part of Shakira’s *Oral Fixation, Vol. 2* album. The song is a vibrant fusion of Latin, reggaeton, and hip-hop, showcasing Shakira’s signature blend of musical styles.
Written by Shakira, Wyclef Jean, and several other contributors, the track features a catchy hook and infectious rhythm, with Shakira’s energetic vocals and distinctive hip-shaking dance moves taking center stage. The lyrics emphasize confidence and self-expression through dance, celebrating the power of movement and rhythm.
“Hips Don’t Lie” became a massive global hit, topping charts in multiple countries and becoming one of Shakira’s most iconic songs. Its success was further amplified by the accompanying music video, which featured dynamic dance sequences and highlighted Shakira’s renowned performance skills. The song remains a defining track in Shakira’s career and a symbol of her crossover success in international pop music.
9. She Wolf
“She Wolf” by Shakira is an energetic, dance-pop track from her 2009 album of the same name. The song features a mix of electronic beats, disco influences, and Shakira’s distinctive vocal style. Lyrically, “She Wolf” explores themes of liberation and transformation, using the metaphor of a “she wolf” to represent a woman reclaiming her power and freedom. The track is known for its catchy chorus, pulsating rhythm, and Shakira’s signature belly dance moves showcased in the music video. “She Wolf” was a commercial success, further establishing Shakira as a versatile artist capable of blending different genres with her unique sound.
10. Can’t Remember to Forget You
“Can’t Remember to Forget You” is a song by Shakira featuring Rihanna, released on January 13, 2014. The track is a vibrant blend of reggae, pop, and rock influences, showcasing the dynamic vocal interplay between Shakira and Rihanna.
Written by Shakira, Sia, and the production duo of John Hill and Daniel Ledinsky, the song’s lyrics explore the emotional struggle of moving on from a past relationship. The catchy chorus and upbeat rhythm complement the theme of conflicting feelings and lingering memories. The accompanying music video features Shakira and Rihanna in visually striking, tropical settings, with both artists delivering energetic performances and showcasing their dance moves.
“Can’t Remember to Forget You” received positive reviews from critics and was a commercial success, charting in several countries and further solidifying Shakira’s status as a global pop sensation.