Shakira, the Colombian superstar, has been captivating audiences worldwide for over two decades with her unparalleled blend of Latin rhythms, pop sensibilities, and unforgettable charisma. From her early days as a rock-infused singer-songwriter to her evolution into a global pop icon, Shakira’s music has crossed cultural and linguistic boundaries, making her one of the most influential artists of our time. Her unique voice, electrifying dance moves, and ability to fuse different genres have resulted in a catalog of hits that resonate with millions. But which of her songs have truly defined her career and left an indelible mark on the music world? In this article, we dive into the top 10 most popular Shakira songs of all time—tracks that not only topped the charts but also became anthems of empowerment, love, and celebration. Whether you’re a longtime fan or discovering her music for the first time, these songs showcase Shakira at her very best, proving why she remains an unstoppable force in the music industry. So, get ready to dance, sing, and relive the magic of Shakira’s greatest hits!
1. “Hips Don’t Lie” (feat. Wyclef Jean) – 2006
Released in 2006, “Hips Don’t Lie” quickly became one of Shakira’s most iconic tracks, solidifying her status as an international pop sensation. The song is an infectious blend of reggaeton, salsa, and worldbeat, with a driving rhythm that’s impossible to resist. Shakira’s vocals are sultry and commanding, perfectly complemented by Wyclef Jean’s charismatic presence. The lyrics celebrate the power of dance and the freedom of expression, making it a universal anthem. Its memorable horn riff, sampled from Wyclef’s earlier track, adds a layer of familiarity that resonates with listeners. “Hips Don’t Lie” topped charts worldwide, becoming the best-selling single of 2006, and remains a dance floor staple to this day.
2. “Whenever, Wherever” – 2001
“Whenever, Wherever” marked Shakira’s English-language crossover in 2001, introducing her unique blend of Latin, folk, and rock influences to a global audience. The song’s Andean pan flutes and driving beat create an exotic backdrop for Shakira’s passionate vocals, which are full of longing and excitement. Lyrically, the song is a declaration of love that transcends geographical boundaries, embodying the idea that true love can overcome any obstacle. The track became an instant hit, topping charts in more than ten countries and propelling Shakira into international stardom. Its accompanying music video, featuring Shakira dancing barefoot in various natural landscapes, is as iconic as the song itself.
3. “Waka Waka (This Time for Africa)” – 2010
“Waka Waka (This Time for Africa)” was the official anthem of the 2010 FIFA World Cup, and it perfectly captures the spirit of unity and celebration associated with the event. The track is a vibrant fusion of Afro-Colombian rhythms, African guitar riffs, and an irresistible chorus that invites everyone to sing along. Shakira’s powerful voice leads the charge, urging listeners to embrace the energy of the moment. The song also features the South African group Freshlyground, adding an authentic cultural touch. “Waka Waka” became a global phenomenon, reaching number one in multiple countries and becoming one of the best-selling singles of all time. Its music video, full of joyful dance and football imagery, further cemented its place as a timeless sports anthem.
4. “La Tortura” (feat. Alejandro Sanz) – 2005
“La Tortura,” released in 2005, is a steamy reggaeton-infused track that showcases Shakira’s ability to convey deep emotion through her voice. The song, which features Spanish singer Alejandro Sanz, tells the story of a love affair fraught with pain and betrayal. Shakira and Sanz’s vocal chemistry is palpable, with their back-and-forth exchanges adding intensity to the song’s narrative. The blend of traditional Latin sounds with modern urban beats makes “La Tortura” both timeless and contemporary. It was a massive hit, particularly in the Spanish-speaking world, where it topped charts for weeks. The music video, featuring Shakira’s sultry dance moves and dramatic storytelling, became iconic, further enhancing the song’s impact.
5. “Underneath Your Clothes” – 2002
“Underneath Your Clothes” is one of Shakira’s most heartfelt ballads, released in 2002. The song is a tender declaration of love, wrapped in a soft rock arrangement that highlights Shakira’s unique vocal tone. The lyrics express a deep sense of gratitude and devotion, making it a favorite for romantic occasions. Musically, the song features lush string arrangements and a memorable guitar riff that gives it a timeless quality. “Underneath Your Clothes” showcased a different side of Shakira, emphasizing her ability to convey vulnerability and sincerity through her music. It became a significant hit worldwide, solidifying her position as a versatile artist capable of delivering both high-energy tracks and intimate ballads.
6. “She Wolf” – 2009
Released in 2009, “She Wolf” marked a stylistic shift for Shakira, diving into the world of electro-pop with a fierce energy. The song is a bold, seductive anthem full of primal imagery and pulsating electronic beats. Shakira’s vocals are playful and flexible, moving effortlessly through the song’s different textures. Lyrically, “She Wolf” is about unleashing one’s inner desires and breaking free from societal constraints. The track’s unique sound, combining elements of disco, funk, and synth-pop, made it stand out in Shakira’s discography. The accompanying music video, featuring Shakira’s incredible dance moves and iconic golden cage scene, became a visual feast that matched the song’s wild energy. “She Wolf” was a commercial success, further proving Shakira’s ability to reinvent herself with each album.
7. “Loca” (feat. El Cata) – 2010
“Loca” is a high-energy, danceable track that captures the fun and carefree spirit of Shakira’s music. Released in 2010 as part of her “Sale El Sol” album, the song features Dominican rapper El Cata and blends Latin pop with merengue and reggaeton influences. “Loca” is all about living in the moment and embracing the craziness of life. The infectious rhythm, catchy chorus, and Shakira’s playful delivery make it impossible not to dance along. The song was a commercial hit in many countries and became a summer anthem in 2010. The music video, shot in Barcelona, showcases Shakira’s charisma and energy, featuring scenes of her roller-skating and dancing through the city.
8. “Chantaje” (feat. Maluma) – 2016
“Chantaje” is a sultry reggaeton track that brought together two of Colombia’s biggest stars: Shakira and Maluma. Released in 2016, the song is a playful back-and-forth about the complexities of romantic relationships, with both artists delivering captivating performances. Shakira’s distinctive voice blends seamlessly with Maluma’s smooth vocals, creating a dynamic contrast that drives the song. The beat is infectious, with a tropical rhythm that’s both modern and rooted in Latin traditions. “Chantaje” became a massive hit, topping the charts in multiple countries and earning billions of views on YouTube. The music video, with its steamy nightclub setting and undeniable chemistry between the two artists, further fueled the song’s success.
9. “Beautiful Liar” (with Beyoncé) – 2007
“Beautiful Liar,” released in 2007, is a powerful collaboration between Shakira and Beyoncé, two of the most influential female artists of their time. The song is a fiery anthem about confronting a deceitful lover, with both singers delivering powerhouse vocals over a Middle Eastern-inspired beat. The track’s production is sleek and polished, blending pop and R&B elements with a global sound that reflects both artists’ versatility. Lyrically, “Beautiful Liar” is about two women realizing they’ve been deceived by the same man but choosing to empower themselves rather than fight over him. The song was a commercial success, and the music video, featuring synchronized dance moves and stunning visuals, showcased the duo’s incredible chemistry and talent.
10. “Estoy Aquí” – 1995
“Estoy Aquí” is one of Shakira’s earliest hits, released in 1995 as part of her breakthrough album Pies Descalzos. The song is a vibrant pop-rock track that highlights Shakira’s distinctive voice and songwriting abilities. “Estoy Aquí” is about regret and longing, with lyrics that express a desire to right past wrongs in a relationship. The track’s upbeat tempo and catchy melody helped it become a hit across Latin America, establishing Shakira as a rising star in the Latin music scene. “Estoy Aquí” remains a fan favorite, often performed at her concerts as a reminder of her roots and the beginning of her journey to global fame. The song’s success was a crucial stepping stone that led to Shakira’s eventual crossover into the English-speaking market
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.
