Shakira, the Colombian pop sensation known for her electrifying performances and distinctive voice, has captivated audiences worldwide for decades. With a fusion of Latin rhythms, pop melodies, and an undeniable charisma, she has created a musical legacy that transcends borders and genres. From her early hits that introduced the world to her unique sound to chart-topping anthems that have become staples on every dance floor, Shakira’s songs resonate deeply with fans of all ages.
In this article, we delve into the top 10 most popular Shakira songs of all time, celebrating the tracks that not only define her career but also showcase her evolution as an artist. Each song tells a story, blending heartfelt emotion with infectious beats, and reflects her ability to connect with listeners on a personal level. Whether it’s the catchy hooks of her Spanish-language hits or the powerful ballads in English, Shakira’s music is a testament to her creativity and talent. Join us as we explore the iconic tracks that have solidified Shakira’s place in music history and continue to inspire generations of fans around the globe. Get ready to relive the magic of Shakira’s greatest hits!
1. “Hips Don’t Lie” (2006)
When Shakira released “Hips Don’t Lie” in 2006, the world couldn’t help but dance. Featuring the smooth stylings of Wyclef Jean, this explosive track blends Latin rhythms, reggae, and pop into an irresistible anthem that screams confidence and joy. Shakira’s vibrant vocals, paired with a pulsating beat and a brass hook that sticks in your head, created a musical storm that swept across continents. Lyrically, the song celebrates the power of dance and physical expression, reminding us that sometimes the body speaks louder than words. The music video, with its infectious choreography and global flair, helped solidify Shakira’s status as a pop icon. What really makes “Hips Don’t Lie” stand out is its joyful spirit—it doesn’t just invite you to dance, it insists on it. From carnivals in Brazil to nightclubs in New York, the track brought people together in celebration of rhythm and movement. It became one of the biggest hits of the 2000s, topping charts in over 50 countries. To this day, it remains a crowd favorite and a reminder of Shakira’s unique ability to make music that moves both the body and the soul.
2. “Whenever, Wherever” (2001)
“Whenever, Wherever” was the song that introduced much of the English-speaking world to Shakira’s magic in 2001. With its wild, worldly beat and poetic lyrics, it was unlike anything else on the radio at the time. There was something beautifully raw about the way she embraced both her accent and heritage, fusing Andean instruments like the charango and panpipes with pop-rock sensibilities. The lyrics painted a picture of a love that knows no borders—bold, adventurous, and willing to follow the heart anywhere. Shakira’s delivery was both playful and passionate, balancing romantic devotion with a sense of fearless independence. And of course, the iconic line about her “small and humble” breasts became a cheeky reminder that she was bringing a new kind of honesty to pop music. The song’s infectious spirit, along with its visually stunning music video full of elemental imagery, helped make it a global hit. “Whenever, Wherever” wasn’t just a song—it was a mission statement. It said Shakira was here, she was different, and she was ready to conquer the world on her own terms.
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)” quickly became a worldwide phenomenon. Shakira, blending pop with Afro-Colombian rhythms and South African influences, crafted a song that radiated unity, celebration, and resilience. The track draws inspiration from the Cameroonian band Golden Sounds’ “Zangaléwa,” blending traditional African chants with an upbeat, infectious chorus that became an instant sing-along. It’s more than just a football anthem—it’s a celebration of overcoming challenges together, a rallying cry that transcends language and borders. Shakira’s vocals are full of warmth and strength, and the lyrics remind us that no matter who you are, greatness lies in standing up after every fall. The music video, featuring global dance sequences and cameos from soccer stars, only added to the magic. During the World Cup, it wasn’t just played—it was lived, felt, and danced to around the globe. “Waka Waka” captures a moment in time when the world came together through sport and song, and it continues to inspire a sense of hope and unity even years later.
4. “Underneath Your Clothes” (2001)
“Underneath Your Clothes” is one of Shakira’s most tender and emotional ballads. Released in 2001 as the follow-up to “Whenever, Wherever,” this track showed a different, more intimate side of her artistry. With a melodic blend of soft rock and orchestral arrangements, the song dives into themes of vulnerability, unconditional love, and the hidden beauty in a deep relationship. Her vocals are full of ache and gratitude, gently wrapping around lyrics that speak of devotion and emotional intimacy. It’s not just a love song—it’s a tribute to the emotional strength that love brings. The title itself is a poetic metaphor, suggesting that the real treasure lies not in appearances, but in what someone carries inside—their dreams, fears, and loyalty. The music video, presented in a nostalgic, vintage style, complements the heartfelt mood of the song beautifully. “Underneath Your Clothes” marked Shakira’s growth as a songwriter and performer in the English-speaking market. It became a staple on radio and a favorite for romantics everywhere, proving that even amidst her fiery dance tracks, she could stop time with a gentle, heartfelt melody.
5. “La Tortura” (2005)
“La Tortura,” released in 2005 and featuring Spanish singer-songwriter Alejandro Sanz, is one of Shakira’s most iconic Latin hits. Sung entirely in Spanish, the song blends reggaeton beats with traditional Latin pop and a hint of flamenco, creating a fusion that was fresh, sultry, and irresistible. The lyrics tell a dramatic story of love, betrayal, and emotional pain—“the torture” of loving someone who’s let you down. Shakira’s raw, expressive vocals dance between sorrow and defiance, while Sanz brings a heartfelt male perspective to the duet, giving it a conversational, almost theatrical quality. What makes “La Tortura” so memorable is how it captures the emotional tug-of-war that happens when someone can’t fully walk away from love, even when they know they should. The music video is equally iconic—Shakira’s mesmerizing dance moves, covered in oil and tears, visually embody the anguish and power struggle portrayed in the lyrics. The song was a massive success across Latin America and beyond, becoming one of the first all-Spanish songs to chart high in the U.S. mainstream. It firmly cemented Shakira’s status not only as a pop crossover success but as a voice that could carry powerful, authentic Latin storytelling to the global stage.
6. “She Wolf” (2009)
“She Wolf,” released in 2009, marked a bold departure for Shakira, both musically and visually. Embracing a sleek electro-pop sound, the track dives into themes of feminine liberation and primal instincts. With a pulsing disco beat and futuristic synths, it’s a dance floor anthem with a deeper meaning beneath the surface. The lyrics describe a woman who’s tired of repressing her desires and is ready to break free, likening herself to a werewolf trapped inside a cage—howling to escape. Shakira’s vocals are playful, sultry, and theatrical, perfectly matching the track’s exotic energy. The song feels like a declaration: she’s no longer content to stay silent or fit into expectations. The accompanying music video is just as memorable—filled with surreal imagery, shimmering gold bodysuits, and hypnotic, animalistic choreography. “She Wolf” not only pushed Shakira into new sonic territory but also showed her willingness to reinvent herself while staying true to her essence. The track became a club hit and a fan favorite, celebrated for its uniqueness and empowerment. It proved that pop music could be daring, danceable, and fiercely intelligent all at once.
7. “Try Everything” (2016)
“Try Everything,” released in 2016 as part of the Zootopia movie soundtrack, is a bright and inspirational anthem that appeals to listeners of all ages. Performed by Shakira’s character, the pop star gazelle named Gazelle, the song became an instant hit for its message of perseverance and growth. The lyrics speak directly to the heart, encouraging people to embrace failure as part of the journey toward success: “I keep on falling down… but I always get up now to see what’s next.” Shakira’s cheerful and sincere vocal delivery brings warmth and encouragement to every word, making the song both comforting and motivating. Its playful rhythm and uplifting chorus are irresistibly catchy, perfect for car rides, classrooms, and anyone needing a boost of hope. The song also showcases Shakira’s ability to adapt her voice for different genres and audiences, proving once again her versatility as an artist. “Try Everything” isn’t just a kids’ movie song—it’s a life lesson wrapped in a pop melody, a reminder that growth often comes through trial, error, and the courage to keep trying no matter what.
8. “Beautiful Liar” (2007)
Released in 2007, “Beautiful Liar” brought together two powerhouse artists—Shakira and Beyoncé—for a sultry, unforgettable duet. The song explores the theme of romantic betrayal, but with an empowering twist. Instead of fighting over the man who wronged them, the two women decide he isn’t worth their pain. Their voices intertwine beautifully over a slow-burning beat that fuses Middle Eastern-inspired melodies with sleek pop and R&B influences. The lyrics are poetic and clever, questioning why women are often pitted against each other instead of holding unfaithful partners accountable. The chemistry between Shakira and Beyoncé is electric, both vocally and visually—the music video, filled with mirrored choreography and sensuous movements, became an instant classic. “Beautiful Liar” stood out not only for its star power but also for its message of unity and self-respect. It topped charts globally and was celebrated for blending cultures, genres, and languages. With its hypnotic rhythm, confident tone, and stunning vocal harmonies, the track became more than just a hit single—it became a symbol of strength in the face of heartbreak, reminding listeners that walking away with your dignity intact is the ultimate power move.
9. “Objection (Tango)” (2002)
“Objection (Tango),” released in 2002 as part of Shakira’s English-language breakthrough album Laundry Service, is a fiery fusion of Latin rock, pop, and tango. From the first beat, the song hits with a burst of energy—fast-paced guitar riffs, passionate vocals, and a rhythm that commands movement. The lyrics tell a story of a woman fed up with a cheating lover, and Shakira doesn’t hold back. With biting wit and raw emotion, she confronts the betrayal with both sass and strength. What sets this track apart is how it blends tango’s drama with the rebellious edge of rock, creating a sound that’s both theatrical and empowering. Shakira’s voice dances through the song—sometimes smooth and controlled, sometimes wild and untamed—perfectly reflecting the emotional whirlwind of the story. The instrumental break mid-song, where she mimics tango dance through musical shifts, is pure artistry. “Objection (Tango)” showed international audiences that Shakira wasn’t just a pop star—she was a musical force with a unique vision. It became one of her signature hits and helped establish her as an artist who could cross cultural and genre boundaries with confidence and creativity.
10. “Don’t Bother” (2005)
“Don’t Bother,” released in 2005 from Shakira’s album Oral Fixation, Vol. 2, is a raw and emotionally charged breakup anthem. From the opening line, the song dives into the complex feelings of heartbreak, jealousy, and self-worth. But rather than wallowing, Shakira transforms her pain into defiance. With fierce vocals and a gritty rock edge, she declares that she won’t be broken by a man who left her for someone else. The lyrics are unapologetically honest—she admits the hurt, but also asserts her strength and resilience. The chorus soars with emotion, and the guitar-driven production adds a punch of catharsis that listeners can feel in their chest. In the accompanying music video, Shakira quite literally destroys symbols of the past—burning photos, smashing mirrors—as a metaphor for letting go and reclaiming power. “Don’t Bother” is a song about moving on, even when it’s messy and painful, and choosing self-respect over heartbreak. It captures a more vulnerable but equally powerful side of Shakira, proving that her artistry extends far beyond catchy dance tracks. This song remains a favorite for anyone who’s ever had to remind themselves of their worth after love turned sour.
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.
