Few artists have left as profound a mark on the global music scene as Shakira. With her unmistakable voice, electrifying stage presence, and a fusion of Latin, pop, and rock influences, Shakira has become a cultural icon. From her humble beginnings in Barranquilla, Colombia, to dominating international charts, she has captivated millions with her unique artistry and unmatched charisma. Over the years, Shakira has delivered a treasure trove of timeless hits—songs that have inspired dance floors, sparked sing-alongs, and etched themselves into the hearts of fans worldwide.
In this article, we’ll dive into the top 10 most popular Shakira songs of all time, celebrating the tracks that have defined her legendary career. Whether it’s the infectious rhythm of “Hips Don’t Lie,” the heartfelt lyrics of “Underneath Your Clothes,” or the global phenomenon of “Waka Waka,” each song on this list tells a story of passion, resilience, and artistic brilliance. Expect to relive moments of nostalgia, groove to irresistible beats, and gain a deeper appreciation for the songs that made Shakira a household name. So, get ready to sway your hips and sing along—because when it comes to Shakira, the music never lies!
1. Hips Don’t Lie (2006)
“Hips Don’t Lie” is undeniably one of Shakira’s most electrifying hits, and it played a massive role in skyrocketing her to worldwide fame. Released in 2006, this track combines reggaeton rhythms with vibrant Latin flair, highlighted by its infectious brass section and a pulsating beat that’s impossible not to dance to. Featuring Wyclef Jean, the song mixes his smooth flow with Shakira’s sultry, unmistakable voice, creating a dynamic energy that celebrates freedom, movement, and joyous self-expression. The lyrics invite listeners to let go and move to the music, reflecting the song’s celebratory and uninhibited spirit. Beyond being a dancefloor staple, “Hips Don’t Lie” topped charts in more than 55 countries, becoming one of the best-selling singles of all time. It wasn’t just a song — it was a cultural moment, crossing language and genre barriers with ease. The track perfectly captures Shakira’s unique ability to blend styles, from reggaeton to Latin pop, while delivering catchy, empowering messages. Its success solidified her status as an international superstar and remains a timeless anthem that still gets people moving whenever it plays.
2. Whenever, Wherever (2001)
“Whenever, Wherever” was Shakira’s first major English-language hit, marking a significant breakthrough in her career by introducing her distinct Latin flavor to a global audience. Released in 2001, the song brilliantly blends traditional Andean instruments like the pan flute with a contemporary pop beat, creating a fresh, vibrant sound that was unlike anything else on the radio at the time. Shakira’s unique yodeling technique, combined with her passionate and expressive vocal delivery, gave the song a charming and unforgettable character. Lyrically, the track is an uplifting anthem about love transcending boundaries and fate bringing two people together, capturing a universal theme that resonated with listeners everywhere. The exotic instrumentation and Shakira’s captivating voice helped the song soar on charts worldwide, making it a defining moment in early 2000s pop music. This song not only broadened her fan base but also established her as a powerful force in the global music scene, able to bridge cultural divides with her innovative sound and heartfelt performance.
3. Waka Waka (This Time for Africa) (2010)
Released as the official anthem for the 2010 FIFA World Cup, “Waka Waka (This Time for Africa)” stands out as one of Shakira’s most spirited and uplifting songs. The track is a vibrant fusion of African rhythms and Shakira’s energetic pop style, inspired by the traditional Cameroonian hit “Zangaléwa” by Golden Sounds. The song’s catchy chorus and upbeat tempo create an infectious sense of celebration and unity, perfectly matching the global spirit of the World Cup. With lyrics encouraging resilience, strength, and togetherness, “Waka Waka” became more than just a soccer anthem — it was a message of hope and perseverance that connected with millions worldwide. The accompanying music video, filled with colorful visuals and diverse dancers, reinforced its theme of cultural pride and global harmony. “Waka Waka” quickly climbed the charts and became one of the best-selling World Cup songs ever, cementing its place not only in Shakira’s discography but also in the broader landscape of international pop culture.
4. She Wolf (2009)
“She Wolf” marked a bold and adventurous turn in Shakira’s musical journey when it was released in 2009. This electro-pop track stands out with its hypnotic beats, quirky synths, and mysterious atmosphere, reflecting the song’s theme of embracing one’s untamed, wild side. Shakira’s sultry and playful vocal performance perfectly complements the track’s dark, pulsating rhythm, making it a club favorite and a fresh addition to her evolving sound. The lyrics explore themes of hidden desires and the tension between societal expectations and personal freedom, showcasing Shakira’s willingness to experiment and push creative boundaries. The song’s catchy hook and danceable beat captured listeners’ attention worldwide, while its music video—featuring Shakira as a shape-shifting “she wolf”—further emphasized the themes of empowerment and self-expression. “She Wolf” demonstrated Shakira’s versatility as an artist, proving she could masterfully blend pop, electronic, and Latin influences into something unique and captivating.
5. La Tortura (2005)
“La Tortura,” a passionate duet between Shakira and Spanish singer Alejandro Sanz, is a groundbreaking fusion of reggaeton, Latin pop, and flamenco influences. Released in 2005, this song explores the intense emotions surrounding love and betrayal, with lyrics that speak to the pain and confusion of a troubled relationship. Shakira’s emotionally charged vocals, paired with Sanz’s soulful contribution, bring raw vulnerability to the track, while the production masterfully blends traditional Latin sounds with contemporary beats. The song’s innovative style helped it become a massive hit across Spanish-speaking countries and beyond, introducing Shakira to an even wider audience. “La Tortura” was praised for its bold mix of genres and heartfelt storytelling, and its success was reflected in numerous awards and chart-topping performances. The music video’s cinematic quality and intense chemistry between the two artists further elevated the song’s impact, solidifying it as a landmark moment in Shakira’s career and Latin music history.
6. Chantaje (2016)
“Chantaje,” a sizzling collaboration between Shakira and Colombian reggaeton star Maluma, was released in 2016 and quickly became a standout track in both artists’ catalogs. The title, which means “blackmail” in Spanish, hints at the song’s themes of seductive power plays and emotional manipulation within a relationship. Driven by a catchy reggaeton beat and infused with sultry, intimate vocals, “Chantaje” perfectly captures the tension and allure of modern love games. The chemistry between Shakira and Maluma is palpable, both in their vocal interplay and the steamy music video, which helped the song dominate Latin music charts for weeks. Beyond its commercial success, “Chantaje” showcases Shakira’s ability to stay relevant by blending traditional Latin sounds with contemporary trends, while maintaining her distinctive vocal style and lyrical storytelling. The track’s irresistible rhythm and provocative lyrics make it a perfect anthem for the club and radio alike, solidifying Shakira’s place in the evolving world of Latin pop.
7. Underneath Your Clothes (2002)
From her 2002 album Laundry Service, “Underneath Your Clothes” reveals a softer, more tender side of Shakira’s artistry. This heartfelt ballad combines emotional lyrics with a sweeping, melodic arrangement that highlights Shakira’s delicate and expressive vocal delivery. The song is a declaration of deep, enduring love — a promise to stand by someone through all of life’s challenges. Its sincere tone and universal message about vulnerability and devotion struck a chord with listeners around the world, helping it become one of Shakira’s most beloved tracks. The understated instrumentation — mainly acoustic guitars and gentle percussion — allows her voice and the song’s lyrical honesty to shine through. “Underneath Your Clothes” earned critical praise for showcasing Shakira’s versatility beyond dance hits, proving she could craft beautiful love songs with emotional depth. To this day, it remains a staple on romantic playlists and continues to touch hearts with its warmth and sincerity.
8. Ojos Así (1998)
“Ojos Así,” from Shakira’s 1998 album Dónde Están los Ladrones?, is a mesmerizing blend of Middle Eastern melodies and Latin pop rhythms that highlight her early experimental spirit. The song’s exotic instrumentation, featuring traditional Middle Eastern percussion and haunting vocal inflections, creates a mysterious, almost hypnotic atmosphere. Shakira’s powerful voice drives the song with passion and intensity, while the lyrics evoke the deep emotional connection inspired by a lover’s eyes — “ojos así” meaning “eyes like these.” This fusion of cultures in sound and style was relatively rare in mainstream Latin music at the time, and it helped establish Shakira as a unique artist unafraid to push boundaries. The song became a breakthrough hit, particularly in Spanish-speaking markets, and remains a fan favorite for its dramatic flair and bold artistic vision. “Ojos Así” stands as a testament to Shakira’s ability to weave diverse influences into a cohesive and compelling musical experience.
9. Beautiful Liar (2007)
“Beautiful Liar” brought together two powerhouse voices — Shakira and Beyoncé — in a stunning collaboration released in 2007 as part of Beyoncé’s B’Day deluxe edition. The song explores themes of female solidarity and the complications of romantic relationships, focusing on two women unknowingly involved with the same man. The track’s sultry, hypnotic beat combined with their seamless vocal harmonies creates a sense of intrigue and empowerment. Both artists deliver confident, alluring performances that complement each other perfectly, making the song a captivating listen. “Beautiful Liar” received widespread acclaim for its production quality and the chemistry between Shakira and Beyoncé, quickly climbing international charts. The accompanying music video, featuring mirrored choreography and striking visuals, further amplified the song’s impact and showcased the strength and elegance of both performers. This collaboration remains a highlight in both artists’ careers, symbolizing the power of unity and mutual respect between two of pop music’s biggest stars.
10. Ciega, Sordomuda (1998)
One of Shakira’s early signature hits, “Ciega, Sordomuda,” from her 1998 album Dónde Están los Ladrones?, is a lively, upbeat pop-rock track full of witty lyricism and infectious energy. The song’s title, which translates to “Blind, Deaf, Mute,” reflects the stubbornness and intensity of love that refuses to see reason or listen to advice. Shakira’s distinctive voice shines through with playful sarcasm and emotional conviction, showcasing her skill as a songwriter and performer. The catchy melody, driven by energetic guitars and dynamic percussion, helped the song become a fan favorite and a staple of her live shows. “Ciega, Sordomuda” played a pivotal role in establishing Shakira as a leading figure in Latin music during the late ‘90s, earning her critical praise and commercial success. It captures the youthful passion and fearless creativity that would continue to define her evolving musical career.
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.
