From the moment she burst onto the global stage, Shakira has proven herself to be a musical force like no other. With her unmistakable voice, magnetic stage presence, and hypnotic dance moves, the Colombian superstar has built a career that transcends borders, languages, and genres. Over the years, she has gifted us with an eclectic mix of infectious pop anthems, soulful ballads, and sultry Latin tracks that have kept fans dancing, singing, and feeling deeply connected to her artistry.
In this article, we’ll take a journey through Shakira’s most iconic hits—the songs that defined her career and cemented her status as a global icon. Whether it’s the heart-pounding beats of “Hips Don’t Lie,” the heartfelt vulnerability of “Underneath Your Clothes,” or the empowering energy of “Waka Waka,” each track showcases her unique ability to fuse cultures and emotions into timeless masterpieces.
So, grab your headphones, crank up the volume, and prepare to relive the magic of Shakira’s greatest hits. These are the top 10 songs that have made the world fall in love with the queen of Latin pop. Let’s dive in and celebrate the musical legacy of this unstoppable dynamo!
1. Hips Don’t Lie (2006)
Released in 2006 as part of her album Oral Fixation, Vol. 2, Shakira’s “Hips Don’t Lie” quickly became one of her signature songs, capturing the world’s attention with its irresistible rhythm and catchy hooks. The song features a collaboration with Wyclef Jean and blends reggaeton beats with Shakira’s distinct Latin flair. What truly set “Hips Don’t Lie” apart was its infectious energy—Shakira’s sultry vocals and dynamic delivery combined with the lively horn section created a track that was impossible to ignore. The song’s lyrics are a celebration of movement, self-confidence, and the universal language of dance, something Shakira has always embraced throughout her career. The accompanying music video, featuring her iconic belly dance moves, became a global sensation, further cementing Shakira’s place as an international pop icon. “Hips Don’t Lie” dominated the charts, reaching the top spot in over 55 countries and remaining one of the best-selling singles of all time. Its success isn’t just limited to its chart performance; the song became an anthem for dance floors worldwide, and its catchy refrain and signature beat continue to be a timeless part of Shakira’s legacy. “Hips Don’t Lie” remains a testament to Shakira’s unique blend of cultural influences and global appeal.
2. Whenever, Wherever (2001)
“Whenever, Wherever,” released in 2001, marked the beginning of Shakira’s international stardom. As the lead single from her Laundry Service album, the song successfully bridged the gap between Latin music and mainstream pop, propelling Shakira into the global spotlight. The track blends Andean musical influences, particularly the use of pan flutes, with catchy pop melodies, creating a sound that was both fresh and infectious. Lyrically, “Whenever, Wherever” explores the theme of love that knows no boundaries or distances, a sentiment that resonated deeply with fans worldwide. Shakira’s magnetic performance in the music video, which included her now-iconic belly dancing moves, captivated audiences and became a defining moment in her career. The song’s fusion of Latin rhythms with Western pop was revolutionary at the time, introducing many listeners to Shakira’s unique sound and her ability to seamlessly blend cultural influences. It wasn’t just the music that made “Whenever, Wherever” a hit; it was Shakira’s undeniable charisma and her ability to create an instant connection with her audience. The song topped the charts in multiple countries and remains one of Shakira’s most beloved hits, perfectly encapsulating the start of her journey toward global superstardom.
3. Waka Waka (This Time for Africa) (2010)
In 2010, Shakira’s “Waka Waka (This Time for Africa)” became the official anthem of the FIFA World Cup, bringing people together from all corners of the globe. The song’s upbeat, celebratory nature is a perfect reflection of the World Cup’s spirit of unity and joy. “Waka Waka” blends African rhythms, vibrant pop melodies, and Shakira’s dynamic vocals, creating a track that feels both uplifting and energizing. Drawing inspiration from a Cameroonian song, it fuses traditional African sounds with modern pop sensibilities, creating a global anthem that transcended borders. Shakira’s performance in the song and its music video was full of energy and inclusiveness, with dancers from all over the world contributing to the colorful and lively visuals. The song’s lyrics encourage people to come together and rise to the occasion, mirroring the collective spirit of the World Cup. With its infectious chorus and universal appeal, “Waka Waka” became an international hit, topping charts in over 30 countries and reaching millions of people worldwide. It not only became synonymous with the World Cup but also established Shakira as an artist capable of creating music that unites people from all walks of life, making “Waka Waka” a lasting cultural phenomenon.
4. She Wolf (2009)
In 2009, Shakira ventured into a new sonic direction with “She Wolf,” a track that pushed boundaries and introduced a bold, electronic dance sound. The song, from her album She Wolf, blends quirky lyrics, pulsating beats, and sultry vocals, capturing the essence of liberation and self-expression. The lyrics of “She Wolf” describe the feeling of breaking free from societal constraints and embracing one’s wild side. Shakira’s vocals are smooth and seductive, reflecting the song’s themes of freedom and sensuality. The track’s production is futuristic and bold, with its pulsating beats and electronic undertones giving it an edgy, modern feel. The chorus, with its iconic howl-like hook, became instantly recognizable, making the song unforgettable. The music video, which features Shakira in a variety of bold, animalistic visuals, complements the song’s themes of transformation and reinvention. “She Wolf” stands out not just for its unique production but for Shakira’s willingness to experiment with new sounds and styles. The song’s innovative approach to pop music showed that Shakira was more than just a global pop star—she was an artist constantly evolving, pushing creative boundaries and introducing new concepts to her music.
5. Underneath Your Clothes (2001)
From her album Laundry Service, “Underneath Your Clothes” is a tender ballad that showcases Shakira’s softer, more vulnerable side. The song, which was released in 2001, is an ode to unconditional love, where Shakira expresses a deep sense of devotion to her partner. The lyrics are filled with longing and intimacy, as Shakira sings about the raw, emotional connection that comes with being truly in love. The song’s soaring melody and lush instrumentation create a feeling of warmth and sincerity, drawing the listener into Shakira’s world of love and tenderness. Her voice, tender and full of emotion, is at the forefront, allowing her to connect with her audience on a deeply personal level. Unlike some of her more upbeat hits, “Underneath Your Clothes” reveals a more reflective side of Shakira, one that embraces vulnerability and the complexity of love. The song became a global hit, resonating with fans around the world who could relate to its themes of affection and emotional depth. “Underneath Your Clothes” remains one of Shakira’s most beloved ballads, showing that she can not only deliver infectious dance tracks but also heartfelt, poignant love songs.
6. La Tortura (2005)
Released as part of her album Fijación Oral, Vol. 1, “La Tortura” became a massive hit in 2005, catapulting Shakira to even greater international success. Featuring the Spanish singer Alejandro Sanz, the song is a fusion of reggaeton, Latin pop, and sensuous rhythms, with a storyline that explores heartbreak, longing, and the complexities of love. The song’s lyrics tell the tale of a woman who struggles to move on from a broken relationship, captured by the feeling of emotional torment—“la tortura.” The collaboration between Shakira and Alejandro Sanz was electric, with their voices complementing each other perfectly. Shakira’s passionate delivery and Sanz’s smooth vocals create a dynamic, emotional narrative that resonated deeply with listeners. “La Tortura” stands out not only for its infectious rhythm but for its honest portrayal of love’s pain and its refusal to shy away from complex emotions. The song was groundbreaking for being the first Spanish-language single to achieve crossover success in mainstream markets, solidifying Shakira as a global superstar. The music video, with its striking visuals and intense chemistry between the two singers, further enhanced the song’s popularity. “La Tortura” remains a staple of Shakira’s discography and a prime example of her ability to blend Latin music with universal themes.
7. Chantaje feat. Maluma (2016)
“Chantaje,” a collaboration with Colombian reggaeton sensation Maluma, was released in 2016 and quickly became a fan favorite. The song’s smooth production and flirtatious lyrics captured the attention of listeners worldwide. Combining reggaeton beats with Shakira’s sultry vocals and Maluma’s charismatic delivery, “Chantaje” tells the story of a playful, seductive relationship where both parties engage in a bit of “blackmail” to win each other’s affection. The song’s catchy chorus, paired with the undeniable chemistry between Shakira and Maluma, made it a standout hit in Latin America and beyond. The music video, which features Shakira in a sultry, glamorous setting, further enhances the song’s seductive energy. “Chantaje” blends reggaeton and Latin pop seamlessly, creating a smooth and infectious track that had fans dancing and singing along. The song’s success is a testament to Shakira’s versatility as an artist, able to effortlessly merge different genres while maintaining her distinct style. Its global reach and popularity helped reinforce Shakira’s status as one of the most influential Latin artists in the world. “Chantaje” was not only a commercial success but also a cultural moment, showcasing the power of collaboration between two Latin icons.
8. Beautiful Liar with Beyoncé (2007)
In 2007, Shakira teamed up with Beyoncé for “Beautiful Liar,” a sultry and empowering duet that blends pop melodies with Middle Eastern-inspired instrumentation. The song explores themes of unity, forgiveness, and the complexities of love. The two powerhouse vocalists harmonize beautifully, creating a captivating synergy that is both powerful and mesmerizing. The lyrics tell the story of two women who realize they’ve been deceived by the same man, leading them to reconcile their differences and stand together. The song’s production is sleek and polished, with its smooth, seductive rhythm and vibrant instrumentation enhancing its Middle Eastern influences. “Beautiful Liar” was a departure from both Shakira and Beyoncé’s typical sound, with the song’s fusion of cultures and genres making it a unique addition to both artists’ discographies. The accompanying music video was a visual spectacle, showcasing stunning choreography and the undeniable chemistry between Shakira and Beyoncé. Their synchronized dance moves and captivating performances further amplified the song’s empowering message. “Beautiful Liar” was a commercial success, and its blend of pop, world music, and sensual energy made it a standout moment in both artists’ careers, solidifying their status as global superstars.
9. Loca (2010)
Released in 2010 as part of her album Sale el Sol, “Loca” is a high-energy track that showcases Shakira’s playful and vibrant personality. The song blends merengue and Latin pop influences, creating an infectious rhythm that makes it impossible to sit still. With its upbeat tempo and catchy chorus, “Loca” is a celebration of carefree love and spontaneous fun. Shakira’s energetic vocals and charismatic delivery bring the song to life, and the music video, which features vibrant colors and lively visuals, perfectly captures the song’s upbeat mood. “Loca” tells the story of a passionate, whirlwind romance where both lovers are caught up in the intensity of the moment. Its lively production and Shakira’s undeniable charm made it an instant hit, topping charts around the world. The song’s combination of Latin and pop influences helped Shakira continue to build her global appeal, and its infectious melody has made it a fan favorite. “Loca” exemplifies Shakira’s ability to create music that is both fun and meaningful, capturing the essence of youthful energy and the excitement of being in love.
10. Try Everything (2016)
“Try Everything,” featured in the 2016 Disney movie Zootopia, is an uplifting anthem of perseverance and self-empowerment. The song’s catchy chorus and feel-good message of never giving up resonated deeply with audiences of all ages, making it an instant favorite. Shakira’s powerful vocals bring the song’s lyrics to life, encouraging listeners to embrace failure as part of the journey and to keep striving forward, no matter the challenges. The song’s upbeat tempo and infectious melody make it a perfect fit for the movie’s themes of ambition and overcoming obstacles. “Try Everything” is a song that celebrates resilience, joy, and the willingness to push past fears and limitations. Its inclusion in Zootopia, a film about self-discovery and chasing dreams, made it an even more fitting anthem for those who strive to do their best, no matter the odds. The song’s widespread appeal helped it become a beloved track for fans of all ages, further cementing Shakira’s reputation as an artist who not only creates chart-topping hits but also inspires positive messages through her music. “Try Everything” continues to be a reminder that it’s okay to fail as long as you keep trying.
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.
