Shakira, the global music sensation, has been captivating audiences for decades with her distinctive voice, electrifying performances, and undeniable charisma. From her humble beginnings in Colombia to dominating the global stage, Shakira has proven time and again why she’s a true icon in the world of music. With a career spanning multiple decades, she has gifted us with an array of unforgettable hits that transcend cultures, languages, and generations. Her ability to blend genres like pop, rock, reggaeton, and folk with her signature Latin flair has earned her legions of fans around the globe.
In this article, we’re taking a deep dive into the top 10 most popular Shakira songs of all time. Whether you’ve danced to the infectious rhythm of “Hips Don’t Lie,” felt the emotional depth of “Underneath Your Clothes,” or been mesmerized by the hypnotic beats of “Waka Waka,” there’s something magical about Shakira’s music that resonates with everyone. Each song on this list represents a milestone in her illustrious career, showcasing her evolution as an artist and her unmatched ability to connect with listeners. Get ready to relive the songs that made the world fall in love with Shakira and discover what made them timeless hits!
1. Hips Don’t Lie (2006)
When “Hips Don’t Lie” dropped in 2006, it wasn’t just a song—it was a global movement. With its hypnotic blend of reggaeton, salsa, and worldbeat influences, this track catapulted Shakira into full-blown international superstardom. Featuring the ever-energetic Wyclef Jean, the song bursts with flavor, driven by booming horns, an infectious rhythm, and Shakira’s unmistakable voice, filled with sass, confidence, and flirtation.
The magic of “Hips Don’t Lie” lies in its ability to make anyone want to move, no matter where in the world they are. Shakira’s dancing, just as captivating as the music, became iconic—her hips really did speak a universal language. The track dominated radio stations, clubs, and stadiums, becoming one of the most played songs of the 2000s.
But beyond the beat, the song radiates empowerment. It’s about owning your body, your movement, and your energy. Shakira’s blend of cultures—Colombian roots, Lebanese heritage, global sounds—makes this track more than just a pop hit; it’s a celebration of multicultural identity. “Hips Don’t Lie” isn’t just a catchy tune—it’s a reminder of music’s power to transcend borders and get us all dancing.
2. Whenever, Wherever (2001)
“Whenever, Wherever” was the song that launched Shakira into English-language stardom—and she didn’t hold anything back. Released in 2001 as the lead single from her first English album Laundry Service, the track introduced the world to her eclectic, fearless artistry. From the first notes of the Andean pan flutes, it’s clear this wasn’t your typical pop hit. The production marries South American instrumentation with upbeat, rock-infused pop, creating something fresh, wild, and completely unforgettable.
Lyrically, it’s an ode to love without limits—two people meant to be together regardless of place or circumstance. Shakira’s poetic lines, delivered with her signature vocal quirks and sincerity, give the song a whimsical, spiritual feel. Lines like “Lucky that my breasts are small and humble” may have sparked playful confusion, but they became instantly iconic, showcasing her unapologetic self-expression.
“Whenever, Wherever” charted worldwide and became a massive hit, but more importantly, it opened a new chapter in global pop. It proved that Latin artists could dominate the international scene without diluting their identity. With its bold sound, magnetic energy, and Shakira’s unique presence, the song remains a defining moment in her career—and pop history.
3. Waka Waka (This Time for Africa) (2010)
“Waka Waka (This Time for Africa)” is more than just a World Cup anthem—it’s a global celebration of resilience, culture, and unity. Released in 2010 as the official song of the FIFA World Cup in South Africa, this high-energy track combines Afro-Caribbean rhythms with an uplifting message that transcends languages and borders. Shakira teamed up with South African group Freshlyground, blending her Latin roots with African musical elements in a way that felt joyful and authentic.
From the opening chant to the spirited chorus, the song feels like a stadium chant turned dance anthem. It radiates positivity and strength, encouraging listeners to rise, push forward, and shine in the face of adversity. The lyrics—“You’re a good soldier, choosing your battles”—speak directly to the human spirit, to courage, and to the will to overcome.
Its music video, filled with dancers from around the world and nods to African culture, helped solidify “Waka Waka” as one of Shakira’s most iconic performances. It became an anthem not just for sports, but for unity. Few songs can rally the world together like this one. A celebration of global community, “Waka Waka” reminds us that music truly is a universal language.
4. La Tortura (2005)
“La Tortura,” released in 2005, marked a turning point in Latin pop, proving that Spanish-language songs could dominate even non-Spanish-speaking markets. Featuring the soulful voice of Spanish singer Alejandro Sanz, this reggaeton-infused ballad is a smoldering tale of heartbreak, temptation, and betrayal. It captures the emotional tug-of-war between lovers who can’t let go, even though they know they should.
Shakira’s performance is magnetic—equal parts vulnerable and defiant. She pleads, scolds, seduces, and forgives all in a single breath, while Sanz’s smooth, mournful tone balances her fiery delivery. Their chemistry feels lived-in, like two people dancing around an emotional landmine. And all of this is wrapped in a beat that you can’t sit still to—sultry, percussive, and undeniably Latin.
“La Tortura” broke records, becoming one of the first Spanish-language songs to receive heavy airplay on English-language radio. Its groundbreaking music video, where Shakira dances while covered in black oil, became a symbol of vulnerability and strength. It wasn’t just a hit—it was a cultural moment. With “La Tortura,” Shakira didn’t just bring Latin pop to the mainstream—she defined it.
5. Underneath Your Clothes (2001)
“Underneath Your Clothes” shows a completely different side of Shakira—tender, intimate, and emotionally raw. Released in 2001 from her Laundry Service album, the song trades in the high energy of her dance hits for a soft rock ballad that feels like a love letter. With gentle guitar strums, sweeping strings, and heartfelt lyrics, it’s a vulnerable expression of unconditional love.
This is Shakira stripped back, both lyrically and vocally. Her voice quivers with sincerity as she sings about feeling cherished, seen, and supported by someone who truly understands her. Lines like “Underneath your clothes, there’s an endless story” feel personal and poetic, capturing the kind of love that goes beyond surface-level attraction.
It’s also a showcase of her versatility—not just as a performer, but as a songwriter. In a pop world that often favors gloss over heart, Shakira leans into emotional authenticity. The music video, with its backstage visuals and romantic storytelling, further amplifies the song’s tender core.
“Underneath Your Clothes” became a global hit, topping charts and touching hearts. It reminded the world that beneath Shakira’s boldness and fire is a deeply romantic soul. It’s a timeless ballad—and one of her most enduring.
6. She Wolf (2009)
“She Wolf,” released in 2009, marked one of Shakira’s most daring sonic shifts—and it totally paid off. With this track, she traded in the earthy textures of her early hits for something sleek, synthy, and wild. The result? A futuristic, disco-influenced banger that sounds like nothing else in her catalog. From the opening growl to the unforgettable chorus, “She Wolf” is a full-blown celebration of liberation, individuality, and primal instinct.
The metaphor of the “she wolf” prowling inside her is both playful and powerful. Shakira uses it to explore themes of constraint and freedom—how women, especially, are often expected to suppress their desires or instincts. But here, she throws off the cage and lets the wolf howl. The production—minimalist yet hypnotic—adds to the sense of mystery and rebellion.
What really makes this song shine, though, is how confidently Shakira owns every second. She’s not trying to fit into any mold—she’s making her own. The accompanying music video, with its surreal visuals and shapeshifting choreography, was just as bold and unforgettable. “She Wolf” stands as one of Shakira’s most unique and experimental tracks, and it proved once again that she’s never afraid to evolve.
7. Chantaje (2016)
“Chantaje,” which translates to “Blackmail,” is pure fire. Released in 2016, this reggaeton duet with fellow Colombian superstar Maluma became an instant smash, racking up millions of views and streams in record time. It’s sleek, seductive, and dripping with chemistry—both musically and lyrically. Shakira and Maluma play off each other like two lovers locked in a teasing game, full of push and pull, tension and temptation.
What’s impressive about “Chantaje” is how effortlessly it balances modern urban pop with traditional Latin flair. The beat is smooth yet infectious, creating a laid-back but undeniably danceable rhythm. Shakira’s vocals are sharp and playful, while Maluma’s smooth tone adds a velvety contrast. Their dynamic feels flirty and real, like two people who know each other’s weaknesses all too well.
The song’s success was massive—it topped charts across Latin America, cracked the global charts, and became one of the most-streamed Spanish-language songs of the decade. It reminded everyone that Shakira isn’t just a pop icon—she’s a reggaeton queen who can still dominate the genre with style and confidence. “Chantaje” is sexy, smart, and endlessly replayable—a perfect modern Latin pop anthem.
8. Loca (2010)
“Loca,” released in 2010 from Shakira’s Sale el Sol album, is a burst of joy and spontaneity. The song lives up to its name—it’s wild, energetic, and completely unpredictable in the best way. With a driving merengue beat and a carefree attitude, “Loca” is all about letting go, having fun, and dancing like nobody’s watching. From the first whistle to the pounding percussion, the track pulls you in and doesn’t let go.
There’s a kind of infectious madness to it. Shakira’s vocals bounce with excitement, as if she’s having just as much fun recording it as listeners do hearing it. The lyrics speak to the thrill of living passionately and recklessly—of falling in love without overthinking, of being proudly unpredictable. Whether you’re dancing in your room or shouting along in the car, “Loca” is designed to free you from inhibition.
The music video, shot guerrilla-style in the streets and beaches of Barcelona, perfectly captures the song’s chaotic energy and sun-soaked spirit. With its mix of Spanish and English lyrics and genre-blending production, “Loca” embodies Shakira’s fearless creativity. It’s one of those tracks that reminds you why she’s a global icon—fun, fierce, and completely original.
9. Ojos Así (1998)
“Ojos Así,” released in 1998 on Shakira’s breakthrough Spanish album ¿Dónde Están los Ladrones?, is one of her most mesmerizing and genre-defying songs. Fusing Middle Eastern musical influences with Latin rock, it’s a hypnotic, sultry anthem that showcases her unique cultural background and vocal intensity. It’s not just a song—it’s an experience, one that feels both ancient and modern, sensual and spiritual.
From the haunting intro to the explosive chorus, “Ojos Así” (“Eyes Like Yours”) tells the story of a search for a love that can’t be matched. The lyrics speak of wandering through the world, from Beirut to Bahrain, only to find that no one has eyes like the one she longs for. Shakira’s passionate delivery, switching effortlessly between Arabic scales and Latin phrasing, creates a soundscape that’s both exotic and deeply personal.
The track became an instant classic, and it’s still a fan favorite decades later. It also laid the groundwork for Shakira’s global crossover, proving her ability to mix cultures and genres in a way that feels seamless. “Ojos Así” is a musical journey—a celebration of identity, desire, and the power of a singular gaze.
10. Objection (Tango) (2002)
“Objection (Tango)” isn’t just a song—it’s a statement. Released in 2002 as part of Shakira’s Laundry Service, this track announced to the world that she wasn’t afraid to take risks. A fierce blend of tango, rock, and Latin pop, the song kicks off with dramatic strings before diving headfirst into guitar-heavy verses and a tango-punk rhythm that grabs you by the collar.
Lyrically, it’s Shakira at her most fiery and defiant. She’s calling out a lover who thought he could play her, and she’s not holding back. With sharp wit and a razor-edge voice, she delivers lines like a courtroom prosecutor. “Next to her cheap silicone I look minimal,” she sneers, flipping the script on typical breakup ballads with attitude and humor.
What makes “Objection (Tango)” so thrilling is its genre mashup. Who else but Shakira could make tango-rock sound like the most natural thing in the world? And that guitar solo? Pure fire. The music video—filled with comic book visuals, tango duels, and Shakira kicking butt—only adds to the song’s wild charm.
It’s bold, it’s theatrical, and it’s 100% Shakira. “Objection (Tango)” proves that heartbreak doesn’t have to sound sad—it can roar.
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.
