Shakira, the global pop phenomenon and Latin music icon, has left an indelible mark on the music industry with her electrifying voice, magnetic performances, and timeless hits. From her humble beginnings in Colombia to becoming a household name worldwide, Shakira has proven time and again that her music transcends borders and generations. With her signature blend of Latin rhythms, pop beats, and heartfelt lyrics, she has crafted songs that not only dominate music charts but also connect deeply with fans across the globe.
In this article, we take a thrilling journey through Shakira’s stellar career to celebrate the top 10 most popular songs of all time. These tracks showcase her versatility as an artist, from sultry ballads and infectious dance anthems to global crossover hits that have earned her countless awards and accolades. Whether you’ve been a fan since the days of Pies Descalzos or discovered her during her chart-topping Hips Don’t Lie era, this list is sure to spark nostalgia and have you singing along.
So, get ready to dive into the magic of Shakira’s music as we count down the songs that have defined her legacy and cemented her as one of the greatest artists of our time!
1. *Hips Don’t Lie* (2006)
One of the most iconic songs of the 21st century, “Hips Don’t Lie” remains Shakira’s global anthem. Released in 2006, this collaboration with Haitian musician Wyclef Jean became a massive sensation and reached the top of the charts in more than 55 countries. The track’s infectious rhythm, combining reggaeton, salsa, and pop influences, captured the world’s attention with its undeniable energy and irresistible danceability. Shakira’s vocal performance is as captivating as ever, but it’s her iconic hip-shaking dance moves that became the true hallmark of this hit. The song’s bold blend of cultures and rhythms felt fresh, and its catchy chorus became an anthem that resonated with listeners from all walks of life. With its playful yet assertive lyrics about confidence, freedom, and the joy of dancing, “Hips Don’t Lie” became not just a song but a cultural phenomenon. The track transcended musical genres and united people across the globe, filling dance floors and bringing people together in celebration. Shakira’s undeniable charisma and signature style shine through, and the song’s impact was enhanced by its unforgettable live performances, including her halftime show at the 2020 Super Bowl, which reignited the track’s popularity. As much a statement of Shakira’s dynamic artistry as it was a worldwide sensation, “Hips Don’t Lie” remains an enduring anthem of empowerment, movement, and the universal language of music.
2. *Whenever, Wherever* (2001)
Released in 2001, “Whenever, Wherever” marked a monumental moment in Shakira’s career, propelling her to international stardom. This breakthrough English-language single, from her album Laundry Service, is an irresistible celebration of love that transcends boundaries. The track’s fusion of Andean-inspired instruments, including the quena flute, with infectious pop melodies instantly set it apart from anything else on the radio at the time. Lyrically, “Whenever, Wherever” is a joyous declaration of devotion, with Shakira singing about the all-consuming nature of love and her willingness to go to any lengths for the person she adores. Her distinctive vocals—sultry, powerful, and vulnerable all at once—captured the complexity of love’s many facets. The song’s unique blend of world music influences and catchy pop hooks made it an instant hit, and its accompanying music video, with its vibrant colors and playful visuals, cemented Shakira as a global pop sensation. “Whenever, Wherever” quickly became one of the most recognizable pop songs of the early 2000s and is remembered for its ability to bridge cultures and introduce Shakira to audiences around the world. The song’s universal message of love and connection, paired with Shakira’s charismatic performance, helped solidify her place in pop music history. To this day, “Whenever, Wherever” is a quintessential Shakira track, evoking feelings of freedom, passion, and the limitless possibilities of love.
3. *Waka Waka (This Time for Africa)* (2010)
As the official anthem of the 2010 FIFA World Cup, “Waka Waka (This Time for Africa)” was an instant global phenomenon. Released in 2010, this vibrant track brought together an infectious fusion of Shakira’s unique vocal style and elements of African and Latin music. The song’s upbeat rhythm, driven by an uplifting guitar riff and pulsating percussion, evokes a sense of celebration and unity, perfectly capturing the spirit of the World Cup. Lyrically, “Waka Waka” is an anthem of hope, resilience, and perseverance, encouraging people to stand together in the face of adversity and celebrate the power of sports and music to bring people from all walks of life together. Drawing inspiration from Cameroonian music, the song incorporates African rhythms and chants that elevate its energy and make it universally relatable. Shakira’s commanding yet playful vocals energize the song, and the accompanying music video, filmed in South Africa, features vibrant visuals and dancers that capture the essence of African culture. The song became a viral sensation, not only becoming a World Cup anthem but also gaining millions of views on YouTube and being performed at numerous international events. “Waka Waka” achieved worldwide success, reaching the top of the charts in numerous countries and cementing Shakira as an international star who transcends borders and languages. With its jubilant energy and powerful message, “Waka Waka” remains a timeless anthem of unity and celebration, bringing people together in a joyful expression of music and sport.
4. *La Tortura* (2005)
A sizzling collaboration with Alejandro Sanz, “La Tortura” was released in 2005 and quickly became one of the defining tracks of Shakira’s career. The song is a perfect fusion of reggaeton, Latin rock, and pop, a combination that allowed Shakira to explore new musical territories while staying true to her Latin roots. “La Tortura” is a passionate, emotionally charged song that tells the story of heartbreak and betrayal, with Shakira and Sanz portraying two lovers trapped in a turbulent relationship. The song’s raw energy is reflected in its lyrics, which express the pain of love lost and the torment of unrequited feelings. Shakira’s vocal performance is as emotive as ever, while Alejandro Sanz’s smooth, heartfelt delivery provides the perfect contrast, highlighting the tension and complexity of the relationship depicted in the song. The track’s infectious rhythm and unforgettable melody made it a standout hit on Latin radio and around the world. “La Tortura” became one of the most successful songs in Latin music, dominating charts and earning Shakira and Sanz multiple awards. The song’s success helped solidify Shakira’s status as one of the most influential artists in Latin pop and further showcased her ability to blend different genres with ease. “La Tortura” remains a fan favorite, thanks to its poignant lyrics, vibrant instrumentation, and unforgettable chemistry between Shakira and Alejandro Sanz. It’s a track that captures the intensity and complexity of love, making it a timeless classic in Latin pop music.
5. *Underneath Your Clothes* (2002)
In 2002, Shakira unveiled a different side of herself with “Underneath Your Clothes,” a heartfelt and tender ballad from her Laundry Service album. Unlike the upbeat, danceable tracks that she is often known for, “Underneath Your Clothes” is a romantic declaration of love and devotion. The song is a powerful testament to Shakira’s versatility as an artist, showcasing her ability to seamlessly transition from pop and reggaeton to deeply emotional ballads. Lyrically, “Underneath Your Clothes” expresses the depth of affection and emotional intimacy between two people, with Shakira singing about the vulnerability and strength that comes with truly opening up to someone you love. The stripped-back production, featuring gentle acoustic guitar strumming and minimal instrumentation, allows Shakira’s voice to take center stage, capturing the raw emotion and sincerity of the lyrics. Her voice, both delicate and powerful, conveys the deep sense of longing and love that resonates throughout the song. “Underneath Your Clothes” became one of Shakira’s most beloved songs, earning widespread acclaim for its poignant lyrics and emotional delivery. Its universal message of love, trust, and devotion struck a chord with listeners around the world, making it a favorite among Shakira’s fans. With its timeless appeal and heartfelt message, “Underneath Your Clothes” remains one of Shakira’s most cherished songs, showing her ability to connect with audiences on an intimate level while still delivering a beautifully crafted pop ballad.
6. *She Wolf* (2009)
Shakira’s “She Wolf” marked a bold departure from her previous musical style, ushering in a new era of her career with its sultry, disco-inspired sound. Released in 2009, this track is a fun and playful exploration of Shakira’s inner wildness, as she embraces her independence and confidently declares her freedom from societal expectations. With its hypnotic beats and funky rhythms, “She Wolf” is both a catchy and innovative pop song that blends dance, electro-pop, and retro influences. The track’s driving bassline and Shakira’s breathy, alluring vocals create a seductive atmosphere, making it impossible not to move along with the groove. The lyrics, which explore themes of self-empowerment and embracing one’s true nature, struck a chord with listeners, especially as Shakira confidently sings about shedding her inhibitions and embracing her inner “she wolf.” The song’s infectious energy is further amplified by its quirky music video, which features Shakira performing captivating choreography in a futuristic, wolf-inspired setting. “She Wolf” marked a reinvention of Shakira’s sound, as she seamlessly blended new genres with her signature Latin flair, keeping her music fresh and relevant while still maintaining the essence of her artistic identity. The song’s impact was immediate, quickly becoming a hit in dance clubs around the world and earning Shakira new fans in the process. “She Wolf” remains one of Shakira’s most daring and creative tracks, showcasing her ability to evolve as an artist while staying true to herself.
7. *Chantaje* (2016)
In 2016, Shakira teamed up with Colombian reggaeton sensation Maluma for “Chantaje,” a sultry and flirtatious track that became an instant Latin pop classic. The song’s rhythmic melody, infused with reggaeton beats, is irresistibly catchy, and Shakira and Maluma’s vocal chemistry is undeniable. Lyrically, “Chantaje” tells the story of a passionate, on-again, off-again relationship, with the two lovers engaging in a playful game of cat and mouse. The song’s flirtatious back-and-forth dialogue, filled with tension and desire, quickly captured the attention of audiences, and its infectious beat made it a dancefloor favorite. The playful dynamics between Shakira and Maluma’s vocals highlight their on-screen chemistry, as they skillfully navigate the flirtatious exchanges in the song’s lyrics. Shakira’s vocal delivery is as smooth and sultry as ever, while Maluma’s deep, melodic voice adds depth and contrast. “Chantaje” is a perfect example of Shakira’s ability to blend sensuality and fun, creating a song that feels both playful and captivating. The track’s massive success earned it millions of streams and views on platforms like YouTube, where it garnered billions of views, cementing it as one of Shakira’s biggest hits of the 2010s. With its undeniable groove, catchy chorus, and sultry lyrics, “Chantaje” became one of the defining songs of Latin pop in the 2010s, further solidifying Shakira’s status as one of the genre’s leading icons.
8. *Objection (Tango)* (2002)
“Objection (Tango)” was Shakira’s fiery declaration of independence, blending tango rhythms with rock and pop influences to create a unique and bold sound. Released in 2002, the song showcased Shakira’s fearless creativity and her willingness to experiment with genres. With its distinctive fusion of Argentine tango and Latin rock, “Objection (Tango)” stands out as one of Shakira’s most innovative tracks. The song’s energetic beat and Shakira’s commanding vocal delivery express her frustration and defiance in a relationship that she refuses to let define her. Lyrically, “Objection (Tango)” is a confident proclamation of personal freedom, with Shakira singing about reclaiming her power and rejecting the toxic dynamics of a controlling relationship. The track’s fiery energy is matched by its bold musical composition, which blends tango’s passionate rhythms with contemporary pop and rock elements. This bold fusion gave the song a unique sound that captured the attention of both Latin music fans and international audiences. “Objection (Tango)” is a perfect example of Shakira’s fearless artistic vision and her ability to break musical boundaries while still delivering a song that resonates with listeners. The track’s dynamic energy, combined with its empowering message, made it one of the standout songs from Shakira’s Laundry Service album. It remains a fan favorite, celebrated for its bold fusion of genres, its unforgettable chorus, and its message of independence.
9. *Ojos Así* (1998)
Released as a single from Shakira’s 1998 album Dónde Están los Ladrones?, “Ojos Así” is a mesmerizing and exotic track that showcases Shakira’s ability to blend musical influences from across the globe. With its Middle Eastern-inspired melodies and rhythms, “Ojos Así” stands out as one of Shakira’s most innovative songs, combining traditional Arabic music with Latin rhythms and Shakira’s unique vocal style. The track’s instrumentation, featuring the oud (a traditional Middle Eastern string instrument), creates a hauntingly beautiful atmosphere, while Shakira’s passionate delivery brings the song’s themes of longing and desire to life. Lyrically, “Ojos Así” tells the story of a deep and consuming love, with Shakira singing about the powerful and intoxicating effect of a lover’s eyes. The track’s fusion of cultures and musical styles marked a bold departure from mainstream pop at the time, and its success helped establish Shakira as an artist who was unafraid to take risks and push musical boundaries. “Ojos Así” was a major hit in Latin America and beyond, earning Shakira widespread acclaim for her ability to cross cultural and musical divides. The song remains one of her most beloved tracks, thanks to its haunting melodies, powerful vocals, and its unique blending of Eastern and Western musical traditions.
10. *Ciega, Sordomuda* (1998)
Released in 1998, “Ciega, Sordomuda” is a fiery, upbeat track that helped cement Shakira as one of Latin pop’s most dynamic and innovative stars. From her Pies Descalzos album, the song’s infectious rhythm, witty lyrics, and unforgettable chorus made it an instant hit. The track blends pop, rock, and Latin influences seamlessly, creating a sound that was fresh and exciting at the time. “Ciega, Sordomuda” is a passionate anthem about the intoxicating nature of love, with Shakira singing about the overwhelming feeling of being blinded and deafened by emotions in a relationship. The lyrics are playful and clever, yet they convey the deep intensity of the feelings involved. Shakira’s powerful vocals and the song’s energetic instrumentation made it an irresistible hit that quickly became a fan favorite. The track’s success marked a turning point in Shakira’s career, signaling her rise to superstardom in Latin music. Its infectious melody and clever lyrics helped define Shakira’s early career and set the stage for her future as one of the genre’s most influential artists. “Ciega, Sordomuda” remains a timeless classic, loved by fans for its upbeat energy, catchy hooks, and its embodiment of Shakira’s unique ability to blend musical styles and deliver songs with heart and soul.
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.
