Few artists have managed to captivate the world with their unique blend of talent, charisma, and versatility quite like Shakira. From her fiery Latin roots to her global pop domination, Shakira’s music transcends borders, languages, and generations. With her unmistakable voice, electrifying dance moves, and penchant for crafting unforgettable hits, she has become an international icon whose songs are etched into the soundtrack of our lives.
Whether it’s her sultry, hip-shaking rhythms or heartfelt ballads, Shakira knows how to connect with her audience on a deeply emotional level, all while keeping us on our feet. Her music seamlessly weaves together elements of rock, pop, reggaeton, and traditional Latin sounds, creating a signature style that is unmistakably hers. Over the decades, she has gifted us with a treasure trove of chart-topping anthems and timeless classics.
In this article, we’ll dive into the top 10 most popular Shakira songs of all time—tracks that have defined her career and left an indelible mark on music history. From global dancefloor staples to introspective masterpieces, this list showcases the best of Shakira’s artistry. Get ready to relive the magic and rediscover the songs that made the world fall in love with Shakira!
1. Hips Don’t Lie (2006)
Released in 2006, “Hips Don’t Lie” became an instant classic and one of Shakira’s most iconic tracks. Featuring Wyclef Jean, the song’s infectious rhythm and electrifying energy turned it into a global anthem. From its tropical beats to Shakira’s unique, hypnotic vocals, the track’s vibrant sound was something audiences hadn’t heard before. The song’s unstoppable groove, paired with a catchy horn melody, made it an instant favorite on dancefloors all around the world. “Hips Don’t Lie” topped charts in over 50 countries, making it one of the best-selling singles of all time. Its combination of reggaeton, salsa, and pop influences showcased Shakira’s signature sound, while her undeniable charisma and captivating dance moves in the music video only solidified the track’s legendary status. The infectious energy of the song continues to make it a party favorite, and its impact on the music scene is still felt today. Shakira’s blend of global sounds and her ability to transcend language barriers made “Hips Don’t Lie” a worldwide hit, cementing her place as an international pop star.
2. Whenever, Wherever (2001)
“Whenever, Wherever,” the lead single from Shakira’s Laundry Service album, marked a defining moment in her career when it was released in 2001. It introduced her to the global stage, showcasing her fusion of Latin sounds and pop in a way that had never been heard before. The song’s combination of Andean pan flutes, a rhythmic beat, and Shakira’s powerful vocals created a unique sound that resonated with audiences worldwide. The catchy chorus and the bold, confident lyrics made the track instantly memorable, earning Shakira her first international hit. The song’s themes of love and freedom spoke to listeners on a deep, universal level, and its upbeat tempo made it impossible not to dance to. “Whenever, Wherever” quickly climbed the charts, becoming a worldwide anthem and helping Shakira break into the mainstream market. Its success not only established Shakira as a leading figure in the pop world but also introduced Latin music to a broader, more diverse audience. The song remains a fan favorite, with its infectious melody and unforgettable energy still leaving an impact years after its release.
3. Waka Waka (This Time for Africa) (2010)
In 2010, Shakira released “Waka Waka (This Time for Africa),” a song that transcended its origins as the official anthem for the FIFA World Cup. With its catchy blend of African rhythms, Shakira’s energetic vocals, and an uplifting message of unity, the track became a global celebration of sport and culture. The song’s infectious beat and motivating lyrics made it a perfect fit for the World Cup, but its universal appeal ensured its success beyond the tournament. It quickly became a timeless anthem, played at parties, sports events, and celebrations worldwide. The song’s message of togetherness and hope resonated deeply with fans from all walks of life, and its upbeat energy inspired listeners to join in the global movement of excitement and joy. Shakira’s iconic “Waka Waka” chant became synonymous with the event, and the track’s vibrant music video, featuring dancers from around the world, only added to its cultural significance. The song’s success was not just limited to the charts—“Waka Waka” became a symbol of unity and shared celebration, reminding the world that no matter our differences, music has the power to bring us all together. Its timeless appeal continues to resonate with audiences today, making it one of Shakira’s most beloved songs.
4. La Tortura (2005)
Released in 2005, “La Tortura” became a groundbreaking moment in Shakira’s career, bringing Spanish-language music to the forefront of mainstream pop. Featuring Alejandro Sanz, the song fused reggaeton-inspired rhythms with heartfelt lyrics that explored the pain of heartbreak and longing. Its sultry, seductive beat and passionate delivery struck a chord with listeners, and the chemistry between Shakira and Alejandro Sanz only intensified its emotional depth. The track’s success signified a shift in Latin pop’s global influence, proving that language was no barrier to reaching audiences worldwide. “La Tortura” was a trailblazer, not only for Shakira but for Latin music in general, marking a significant moment in the crossover of Latin artists into the international music scene. The song’s melody, with its haunting chorus and infectious rhythm, made it a radio favorite and a club anthem, while its emotionally charged lyrics about the suffering of love resonated with fans on a personal level. Its blend of Latin sounds with modern pop created a sound that was both fresh and timeless. The impact of “La Tortura” is still felt today as a defining track in Shakira’s career, and it remains a fan favorite for its ability to combine passion with rhythm, bridging cultural divides with its universal themes.
5. Underneath Your Clothes (2002)
“Underneath Your Clothes,” a heartfelt ballad from Shakira’s 2002 album Laundry Service, showcased a different side of the artist. After years of dominating the dancefloors with fiery rhythms, Shakira revealed her vulnerability and emotional depth through this intimate love song. The track’s smooth, romantic melody, paired with Shakira’s tender vocals, told a story of deep affection and devotion. Its lyrics, which spoke of loving someone beyond the physical, resonated with fans around the world, particularly those who appreciated Shakira’s ability to balance both the fiery and soft aspects of her artistry. “Underneath Your Clothes” demonstrated Shakira’s versatility as an artist, capable of creating music that could make listeners dance and also touch their hearts. The song’s gentle instrumentation, which slowly builds with each passing verse, highlights her ability to convey raw emotion through music. The track quickly became a fan favorite and garnered commercial success, reaching the charts in multiple countries. Its universal theme of love and commitment made it one of Shakira’s most enduring tracks. The success of “Underneath Your Clothes” solidified her status as a pop artist capable of creating both chart-topping hits and emotionally resonant ballads. The song continues to be remembered as one of her most intimate and heartfelt moments in her extensive catalog.
6. She Wolf (2009)
In 2009, Shakira released “She Wolf,” an electro-pop track that signaled a bold departure from her previous work and showcased a more experimental side of her artistry. The song’s innovative sound, with its hypnotic beats and catchy chorus, was unlike anything Shakira had done before. “She Wolf” blended electronic production with a raw, primal energy, capturing a sense of freedom and empowerment. Its quirky, playful lyrics about breaking free from societal expectations and embracing one’s true self added to the track’s rebellious, fun spirit. Shakira’s sultry vocals, combined with the song’s pulsating beat and catchy hook, made “She Wolf” an instant club hit. The song’s music video, with its striking visuals of Shakira trapped in a cage before transforming into a powerful, confident figure, perfectly matched the song’s message of liberation. “She Wolf” was a daring departure from Shakira’s earlier work, and it highlighted her ability to experiment with new sounds and push boundaries while still maintaining her unique style. The song quickly became a favorite for its irresistible energy and became a club anthem around the world. It was a defining moment in Shakira’s career, showing that she wasn’t afraid to evolve and take risks with her music, all while staying true to the fiery, bold persona that had made her a global sensation.
7. Chantaje (2016)
Released in 2016, “Chantaje” is a sultry reggaeton duet that brought Shakira together with Colombian singer Maluma. The song’s irresistible rhythm, seductive melody, and undeniable chemistry between the two artists made it a massive hit. From the moment it dropped, “Chantaje” quickly climbed the charts, capturing listeners with its catchy hook and passionate delivery. The song’s reggaeton influence and sensual lyrics about love and desire struck a chord with fans, further solidifying Shakira’s place as one of Latin music’s biggest stars. The collaboration between Shakira and Maluma, both Colombian superstars, was electric, with their combined energy and effortless chemistry creating a musical moment that fans couldn’t get enough of. “Chantaje” was a perfect example of Shakira’s ability to seamlessly blend genres, combining Latin rhythms with pop and reggaeton influences to create a sound that was both modern and timeless. The song’s provocative lyrics, coupled with its catchy beat, made it a standout track in Shakira’s discography. It became a global hit, resonating with fans from all corners of the world. The song’s success is a testament to Shakira’s enduring appeal and her ability to evolve while staying true to her roots. “Chantaje” was not only a chart-topping success but also an important collaboration that reinforced Shakira’s position as a leading figure in Latin pop music.
8. Try Everything (2016)
Featured in Disney’s Zootopia, “Try Everything” was a 2016 release that saw Shakira stepping into the role of Gazelle, the animated pop star in the movie. The song’s upbeat tempo, catchy melody, and empowering lyrics made it a perfect fit for the movie’s themes of perseverance and following one’s dreams. Shakira’s performance as Gazelle resonated with audiences young and old, with the song’s message of never giving up despite the obstacles in life striking a chord with listeners of all ages. “Try Everything” became a motivational anthem, encouraging people to embrace challenges and take risks in the pursuit of their goals. The song’s positivity and infectious energy made it a standout track, and it quickly became a favorite for kids and adults alike. Shakira’s ability to craft a song with both a fun, pop sensibility and a deeper, more meaningful message helped “Try Everything” stand out as one of her most memorable songs. It’s a track that inspires perseverance and determination, reminding listeners that it’s okay to make mistakes and that the journey is just as important as the destination. “Try Everything” was a massive success, and its upbeat, feel-good vibe made it a timeless addition to Shakira’s catalog, with its message resonating long after the movie’s release.
9. Ojos Así (1998)
“Ojos Así,” from Shakira’s 1998 album ¿Dónde Están los Ladrones?, is a mesmerizing blend of Middle Eastern and Latin influences that captured Shakira’s ability to fuse diverse musical styles. The song’s dramatic instrumentation, with its swirling melodies and infectious rhythms, created a sound that was both exotic and captivating. “Ojos Así” stands as a testament to Shakira’s early artistry, demonstrating her ability to merge different cultural sounds and create something entirely unique. The song’s passionate lyrics, sung in both Spanish and Arabic, highlighted her multicultural influences and further established her as an artist who was not afraid to explore new musical territories. “Ojos Así” showcased Shakira’s impressive vocal range, with her soaring notes and emotive delivery adding depth to the song’s powerful message. The track became a fan favorite, particularly among Shakira’s early supporters, and it remains a beloved part of her discography. Its dramatic sound and passionate themes of love and longing made it a standout in her early career, helping to establish her as a force in Latin music and beyond. “Ojos Así” continues to be remembered as one of Shakira’s most unique and captivating songs, embodying the multicultural influence that would come to define her entire career.
10. Beautiful Liar (2007)
In 2007, Shakira and Beyoncé came together for a powerful collaboration on “Beautiful Liar.” The song, which combined Shakira’s Latin flair with Beyoncé’s R&B sensibilities, became an instant hit thanks to the dynamic chemistry between the two superstars. The song’s theme of betrayal, captured in both its lyrics and vocal performance, resonated deeply with fans. With its infectious beat and captivating chorus, “Beautiful Liar” blended Shakira’s and Beyoncé’s unique vocal styles seamlessly, creating a powerful musical moment. The track’s fusion of Latin rhythms and R&B elements made it a standout in both artists’ catalogs, showcasing their ability to cross genres while maintaining their individual identities. The accompanying music video, which featured both stars in glamorous, seductive settings, added to the song’s allure, further emphasizing its themes of deception and heartache. “Beautiful Liar” became a chart-topping success and remains one of the most memorable collaborations of the 2000s. The song’s unique combination of Latin and R&B sounds, along with its unforgettable hook and fiery vocal performances, made it an iconic moment in both Shakira’s and Beyoncé’s careers. “Beautiful Liar” will always be remembered as a powerful anthem of betrayal and empowerment, capturing the emotional complexity of relationships through its captivating lyrics and musical composition.
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.
