From her electrifying dance moves to her unmistakable voice, Shakira has captivated the world with her irresistible charm and boundless talent. With a career spanning decades, this Colombian superstar has become a global icon, blending Latin rhythms with pop sensibilities to create a sound that is uniquely her own. Whether she’s igniting the dance floor with infectious beats or touching hearts with soulful ballads, Shakira’s music transcends borders and languages, uniting fans from all corners of the globe. But with such an impressive catalog of hits, how do you narrow down the best of the best? In this article, we take on the thrilling challenge of ranking Shakira’s top 10 most popular songs of all time. From chart-topping anthems to timeless classics, these tracks not only showcase her extraordinary vocal prowess but also her ability to continually reinvent herself and stay relevant in an ever-evolving music industry. So, prepare to dance, sing, and reminisce as we dive into the unforgettable hits that have made Shakira a household name and a true legend in the world of music.
1. “Hips Don’t Lie” (2006)
In 2006, Shakira teamed up with Wyclef Jean to release what would become one of the most iconic songs of her career, “Hips Don’t Lie.” This infectious track, with its irresistible blend of reggaeton and salsa, took the world by storm. It became an instant hit, topping charts in over 55 countries. The song’s catchy hook and Shakira’s signature hip movements in the music video made it a global phenomenon. “Hips Don’t Lie” wasn’t just a song; it was a cultural moment, solidifying Shakira’s status as a global pop superstar. The track remains one of the best-selling singles of all time, a testament to its lasting appeal.
2. “Whenever, Wherever” (2001)
Shakira’s breakthrough into the English-speaking market came with the release of “Whenever, Wherever” in 2001. This track was the lead single from her first English-language album, Laundry Service, and it perfectly encapsulated her unique blend of Latin pop and world music influences. The song’s Andean panpipes and distinctive vocal delivery helped it stand out in the crowded pop landscape. It became an international hit, reaching the top ten in multiple countries and introducing Shakira to a broader audience. “Whenever, Wherever” is more than just a song; it’s a celebration of cultural fusion and a pivotal moment in Shakira’s career.
3. “Waka Waka (This Time for Africa)” (2010)
Released as the official anthem for the 2010 FIFA World Cup, “Waka Waka (This Time for Africa)” became an instant global sensation. The song, which featured the South African band Freshlyground, was a perfect blend of African rhythms and Shakira’s energetic pop style. Its infectious beat and empowering lyrics made it a favorite not just among soccer fans, but music lovers worldwide. The track topped charts in numerous countries and became one of the best-selling singles of all time. “Waka Waka” is more than just a World Cup anthem; it’s a song that embodies the spirit of unity and celebration.
4. “La Tortura” (2005)
“La Tortura,” released in 2005, is a steamy reggaeton-infused duet with Spanish singer Alejandro Sanz. The song marked a significant moment in Shakira’s career as it was her first single entirely in Spanish to achieve widespread international success. “La Tortura” was a groundbreaking hit that showcased Shakira’s ability to blend Latin music with mainstream pop, paving the way for future Latin crossover hits. The song’s narrative of unrequited love and emotional pain resonated with listeners, while its infectious rhythm made it a dancefloor favorite. “La Tortura” remains one of Shakira’s most beloved songs, highlighting her versatility as an artist.
5. “Underneath Your Clothes” (2001)
“Underneath Your Clothes,” released in 2001, is a beautiful ballad that showcased a softer, more romantic side of Shakira. As the second single from her Laundry Service album, the song became a global hit, reaching the top ten in several countries. The track’s lush instrumentation and heartfelt lyrics captivated audiences, proving that Shakira was not just a one-hit wonder, but a versatile artist capable of delivering powerful ballads. “Underneath Your Clothes” is a timeless love song that continues to resonate with fans, cementing its place as one of Shakira’s most memorable tracks.
6. “She Wolf” (2009)
In 2009, Shakira unleashed her inner animal with the release of “She Wolf,” a synth-heavy dance track that marked a departure from her earlier sound. The song’s quirky lyrics and infectious beat made it an instant hit, while the accompanying music video, featuring Shakira in a cage performing contortionist moves, became iconic. “She Wolf” was a bold statement of artistic evolution, showcasing Shakira’s willingness to experiment with new sounds and styles. The track topped charts around the world and remains a fan favorite, proving that Shakira’s creativity knows no bounds.
7. “Loca” (2010)
“Loca,” released in 2010, is a high-energy track that perfectly captures the vibrant spirit of Latin music. Featuring British rapper Dizzee Rascal in the English version and El Cata in the Spanish version, “Loca” was a worldwide hit, topping charts across Europe and Latin America. The song’s infectious merengue beats and carefree lyrics made it a dancefloor anthem, while its playful music video showcased Shakira’s fun-loving personality. “Loca” is a celebration of freedom and joy, embodying the lively, passionate energy that Shakira brings to her music.
8. “Can’t Remember to Forget You” (2014)
In 2014, Shakira joined forces with Rihanna for the sizzling duet “Can’t Remember to Forget You.” The song, with its reggae-inspired beat and catchy melody, was an instant hit, climbing the charts in multiple countries. The chemistry between Shakira and Rihanna was palpable, both in the song and its steamy music video, which garnered millions of views on YouTube. “Can’t Remember to Forget You” is a perfect blend of pop, rock, and reggae, showcasing Shakira’s ability to collaborate with other artists while maintaining her unique sound. The track is a standout in her discography, beloved by fans for its infectious energy.
9. “Estoy Aquí” (1995)
“Estoy Aquí” was the song that first put Shakira on the map. Released in 1995 as the lead single from her album Pies Descalzos, this track introduced the world to a young Shakira who was ready to take the Latin music scene by storm. The song’s heartfelt lyrics and catchy melody made it a hit in Latin America, and it quickly became one of Shakira’s signature songs. “Estoy Aquí” is a powerful pop-rock ballad that showcases Shakira’s unique voice and songwriting talent. It’s a song that still resonates with fans today, reminding us of where her incredible journey began.
10. “Chantaje” (2016)
“Chantaje,” released in 2016, is a sultry reggaeton track that features Colombian singer Maluma. The song was an instant hit, topping charts in multiple countries and becoming one of the most-streamed songs of the year. “Chantaje” is a perfect example of Shakira’s ability to stay relevant in the ever-changing music industry, blending her signature style with contemporary sounds. The chemistry between Shakira and Maluma in the song and its accompanying video was undeniable, making “Chantaje” a fan favorite. The track is a testament to Shakira’s enduring appeal and her ability to continuously reinvent herself.
Edward Tomlin 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.
