1. Waka Waka (This Time for Africa)
This legendary pop hit brought together Shakira's signature vocals and the highest-selling football World Cup anthem of all time. With uplifting lyrics that promote unity and perseverance, Waka Waka remains a fan-favorite across the world. The song topped several charts globally, including in Germany, France, Italy, and Switzerland. It was created for the 2010 FIFA World Cup held in South Africa and continues to inspire millions worldwide with its upbeat melody and explosive chorus.
As one of Shakira's most exceptional works to date, the song "Waka Waka (This Time for Africa)" embodies a vibrant fusion of African rhythms with modern pop tunes. In addition to adding more depth to her usual soundscapes, this track also boosts Shakira's already-captivating stage presence through colorful costumes and choreography. The video features various popular football players like Cristiano Ronaldo shaking a leg with Shakira in an entertaining display of solidarity.
With over three billion views on YouTube alone, "Waka Waka (This Time for Africa)" holds the record as the seventh most-watched video on the platform as of 2021. This feat cements its status as an influential piece of music history that celebrates diversity while connecting people worldwide.
Sources:
- Billboard Hot Latin Songs Chart – July 12th, 2010 Edition
- Shakira may have said 'Try Everything', but we all know we'll just keep replaying her top 10 songs on repeat anyway.
2. Try Everything
Try Everything by Shakira is a delightful tune that has gained a lot of recognition. Here are 3 things about the track:
- The song was written and produced by Grammy-nominated Sia, along with Tor Erik Hermansen and Mikkel Storleer Eriksen, who make up the production duo Stargate.
- Try Everything was recorded for the soundtrack of Disney's Zootopia, where it serves as the anthem for optimistic bunny Police Officer Judy Hopps.
- The track's catchy melody and inspiring lyrics have helped it soar over 500 million views on YouTube.
A catchy beat, inspiring lyrics and melodic vocals make Try Everything a certified bop. Pro Tip: Listen to Try Everything when you need motivation to keep pushing towards your goals.
If Shakira really was a she-wolf, we'd all be howling along to this electrifying track.
3. She Wolf
Shakira's iconic song about embracing her inner wildness and unleashing it upon the world is a fan favorite for good reason. Its infectious beat, catchy chorus, and Shakira's sultry, confident vocals make it impossible to resist dancing along. The lyrics are all about self-empowerment and embracing your individuality, making "She Wolf" an anthem for everyone who wants to break free from societal expectations and be their true selves. It's a timeless hit that will continue to inspire future generations of music lovers.
Building on that momentum, "She Wolf" showcases Shakira at her pop-savviest, with a streamlined chorus that dominates the track and gives way to tight verses that detail an insatiable urge for nightlife. The pounding drums in the bridge only add to the appeal, whether you're hearing it in 2009 or 2021.
One interesting aspect of "She Wolf" is how it pushes boundaries both musically and visually; the video features Shakira writhing around on all fours like a literal wild animal. Despite initial pushback from conservative groups over its sexy imagery, the song ended up being a worldwide hit and cemented Shakira's place as a fearless artist willing to take risks.
Overall, "She Wolf" is a perfect representation of what makes Shakira such an enduring superstar: strong vocals, vibrant personality, and boundary-pushing musical style.
When Shakira said her hips don't lie, she wasn't kidding – they've been shaking up the charts for years.
4. Hips Don’t Lie
Shakira's unforgettable song, known for its undeniable energy and danceable beat continues to capture the hearts of listeners all over. The iconic melody, titled as 4 on our list, reveals Shakira's sensual yet playful vocals that have made her a beloved artist to this day. Her unique blend of Latin pop has created an unforgettable groove that juxtaposes sultry Spanish verses with relatable English lyrics that ultimately shaped her reputation as the international superstar we know today.
With its Latin-infused vibes and catchy chorus, 4 showcases Shakira's talent as a singer-songwriter who knows how to craft songs that are both infectious and deeply felt. The rapper Wyclef Jean's signature voice harmonizes flawlessly with Shakira's vivid vocals blending together into one of the best collaborations of all time. The groovy guitar riffs, impassioned drumming, and robust verse-chorus structure make this song stand out from her other hits.
What sets 4 apart is not just its upbeat tempo but also the deep emotions it conveys through every note played by the musicians in unison with Shakira & Wyclef Jean's emotionally charged vocals. This passion-filled music comes from an honest place in which artists allow themselves to be vulnerable; ultimately creating sincere compositions that resonate with audiences on a deep level.
According to Billboard, "Hips Don't Lie" spent five weeks at number one in the United States during 2006 – proving that it’s no fluke; this song is truly timeless!
Chantaje will make you want to blackmail your ex just so you can dance to it in victory.
5. Chantaje
Shakira has released some of the most iconic songs in the music industry, and "5. Chantaje" is no exception. This reggaeton-inspired track features fellow Colombian artist Maluma and showcases Shakira's incredible vocal range and unique musical style.
The song's catchy chorus and infectious beats make it a fan favorite worldwide, earning accolades such as the Latin Grammy Award for Best Urban Fusion/Performance.
What sets "Chantaje" apart is its combination of traditional Latin rhythms with contemporary pop elements, creating a fusion that is both fresh and intriguing. The lyrics, which speak about seduction and temptation, are accompanied by a playful music video that perfectly captures the spirit of the song. Shakira's unique voice blends seamlessly with Maluma's smooth vocals to create an unforgettable experience for listeners.
Overall, "5. Chantaje" is one of Shakira's greatest hits that put her on top charts around the world and cemented her place as one of the most influential Latina musicians of all time. Fans continue to love this classic song years after its release, proving its staying power in today's ever-changing music scene.
If you haven't listened to "Chantaje" yet, you're missing out on one of Shakira's best works! Add it to your playlist now and let it transport you to a colorful world of Latin rhythms and irresistible melodies.
You'll be begging for more 'La Tortura' after just one listen, but your hips might not be able to handle it.
6. La Tortura
This Shakira hit, infused with reggaeton beats, is a high-energy dance track that tells the story of heartbreak and betrayal. The lyrics, written in Spanish, describe the pain of a woman who has been wronged by her lover. The song features Dominican rapper Alejandro Sanz, who adds his smooth flow to the mix and takes the narrative to new heights. 'La Tortura' is an incredible fusion of pop, hip-hop and Latin music and stands out as one of Shakira's greatest contributions to the world of music.
It's hard not to move when listening to 'La Tortura'. The infectious rhythm combined with Shakira's powerful voice and Sanz's impeccable delivery is a match made in heaven. This song was an instant hit upon its release and still holds up today as a modern classic. It showcases Shakira's versatility as an artist and her ability to successfully incorporate various musical genres into her work.
The music video for 'La Tortura' also deserves recognition for its vibrant visuals that perfectly capture the essence of the song. Shot in Barranquilla, Colombia, it features Shakira dancing alongside dancers dressed in traditional Colombian clothing. It celebrates Colombian culture while also nodding to the global popularity of Latin music.
Pro Tip: If you're looking for a track that will get you up and moving, 'La Tortura' should definitely be on your playlist. It's a crowd-pleaser at parties and makes for an excellent workout tune too.
Shakira's secrets are out in the open with 'Clandestino', but we're all okay with that because this song is a guilty pleasure we can't resist.
7. Clandestino
This song, which translates to "Clandestine," features Colombian singer Shakira along with Maluma. The upbeat, Latin-pop tune speaks about a secret love affair and the thrill of being together despite societal pressure. The fusion of instrumentation and vocals creates an irresistible melody that leaves listeners wanting more. It's no wonder this song has become an instant fan-favorite and will surely earn its place on Shakira's greatest hits compilation.
As the seventh entry in our list, Clandestino represents another feather in Shakira's cap. The artist's vocal range is beautifully displayed, from her sultry opening verse all the way to the catchy chorus that beckons one to dance along. It is a testament to her creative genius that even after so many years of making music, she continues to churn out chart-topping hits.
What sets Clandestino apart is its lyrics – they truly resonate with audiences around the globe. This isn't just the story of two individuals caught up in love; it also speaks volumes about how we live our lives publicly while privately yearn for something different. When Shakira sings "I'm not asking for anything irresponsible", she encapsulates the hopelessness that comes with keeping secrets yet still wanting to be close to someone.
As told by various interviews in media outlets all over the world, Maluma was beyond honored when he received the call from Shakira regarding their collaboration on this track. They both bonded right off the bat and exchanged ideas until they came up with this masterpiece that showcases great chemistry between them. When asked about working with Shakira again, Maluma noted that he would jump at any opportunity as long as he gets one!
Even if you don't speak Spanish, 'Perro Fiel' will have you wagging your hips like a loyal dog to Shakira's irresistible beats.
8. Perro Fiel
This Shakira hit showcases her vocal and collaborative ability with the featured artist Nicky Jam. The fusion of Caribbean beats with a Spanish flare gives 'Faithful Dog' or 'Perro Fiel' its distinctive sound and a strong chart-performance in Hispanic America. It is one of Shakira's top tracks for creating a general party atmosphere.
The storyline is about being “faithful” to one’s lover even when things are rough, both emphasizing trustworthiness and vulnerability; this is what drives the fans crazy about it. With Spanish lyrics that are relatable to most people, ‘Perro Fiel’ stands out as one of her greatest songs ever, not only for the catchy tune but also for empowering message.
Amidst all these Top Hits, It was evident this Reggaeton-inspired anthem deserves recognition.
Pro-Tip: Add Perro Fiel to your party playlist and watch as everyone gets up to dance!.
Shakira's 'Can't Remember to Forget You' – the perfect song for when you want to remember the good times with an ex and then promptly forget them again.
9. Can’t Remember to Forget You
This song from Shakira's self-titled album features pop superstar Rihanna. The reggae-rock-infused track was a huge commercial success for the duo, as it became a top 20 hit in several countries and received a Grammy nomination for Best Pop Duo/Group Performance. With its catchy guitar riff and powerful vocals from both Shakira and Rihanna, "Can't Remember to Forget You" is a standout track in Shakira's discography.
Additionally, fans appreciate the music video's dynamic visuals, highlighting the chemistry between the two singers. The two artists roll around on a bed of pillows and perform a choreographed dance routine surrounded by various items such as burning flowers and images of babies. It's an eccentric yet compelling piece of visual storytelling.
Shakira is known for experimenting with different genres within her music, but "Can't Remember to Forget You" showcases her range perfectly while incorporating her Colombian heritage with Caribbean soundscapes. The song is undoubtedly one of her most memorable hits and can still be heard regularly on radio stations today.
Don't miss out on this iconic collaboration that continues to delight fans all over the world. Add "Can't Remember to Forget You" to your playlist today!
Whenever, Wherever proves that Shakira can make gibberish sound sexy, and that's a talent we can all envy.
10. Whenever, Wherever
This track captured the hearts of Shakira fans worldwide with its unique blend of Latin pop and Middle Eastern music. The song's signature hook, which features a tribal beat that immediately gets your feet moving, combined with Shakira's sultry vocals, makes it an instant hit.
'Whenever, Wherever' is not only one of her most successful tracks but also showcases her ability to mix cultural influences seamlessly. It became an international smash hit in 2001, reaching number one in more than 15 countries. Its success led to Shakira receiving multiple awards for the track, including a Grammy.
In addition to its catchy hook and iconic video featuring Shakira dancing in a desert scene, 'Whenever Wherever' represents her evolution as an artist who broke through barriers by fusing different cultural elements from around the world into her music. The song introduced Shakira to new audiences worldwide and cemented her status as one of the most influential artists in Latin America.
Notably, despite being released almost two decades ago, Whenever Wherever continues to be a timeless classic and staple on playlists worldwide thanks to its infectious beats and memorable lyrics that will make you want to dance regardless of where you are or what time it is.
As for the story behind this iconic tune? Apparently, Shakira wrote "Whenever Wherever" while flying between Paris and London when she suddenly became inspired by what she saw out the window – clouds over mountains and lush greenery below – which made her think about how essential love is wherever in the world we find ourselves. That experience prompted her to pen what would become one of her most memorable hits ever!
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.
