Shakira Profile
Shakira (born Shakira Isabel Mebarak Ripoll on February 2, 1977, in Barranquilla, Colombia) is a globally renowned singer, songwriter, dancer, and philanthropist. Often referred to as the "Queen of Latin Music," Shakira is celebrated for her distinctive voice, innovative music, and dynamic stage presence. She has successfully bridged the gap between Latin and mainstream pop music, becoming one of the most influential artists of her generation.
Early Life and Background
Shakira was born to a Lebanese father and a Colombian mother, giving her a rich cultural heritage that would later influence her music. She showed a passion for music and dance from an early age, writing her first song at the age of eight. By the time she was 13, she had signed her first record deal with Sony Music Colombia.
Her unique combination of Middle Eastern rhythms, Latin beats, and pop melodies, along with her belly-dancing skills, set her apart from other artists early in her career.
Music Career
Breakthrough in Latin America
Shakira's first two albums, Magia (1990) and Peligro (1993), received little commercial success. However, her third album, "Pies Descalzos" (1995), was a massive breakthrough in Latin America, producing hits like:
"Estoy Aquí"
"Antología"
"Dónde Estás Corazón"
Her follow-up album, "¿Dónde Están los Ladrones?" (1998), solidified her status as a major Latin artist with hits like:
"Ojos Así"
"Inevitable"
"No Creo"
Crossover to Global Stardom
Shakira achieved international fame with her first English-language album, "Laundry Service" (2001), which featured the global hits:
"Whenever, Wherever"
"Underneath Your Clothes"
Her ability to blend Latin pop, rock, and Middle Eastern sounds resonated with audiences worldwide, making her a household name.
In 2005, Shakira released the highly successful Spanish-language album "Fijación Oral, Vol. 1" and the English-language "Oral Fixation, Vol. 2", which included the global smash "Hips Don't Lie" featuring Wyclef Jean. The song topped charts in over 55 countries and became one of the best-selling singles of the 21st century.
Later Albums and Continued Success
Shakira continued to evolve her sound with subsequent albums:
"She Wolf" (2009) – Featuring the electro-pop hit "She Wolf".
"Sale el Sol" (2010) – A return to her Latin roots with songs like "Loca".
"Shakira" (2014) – Featuring "Can't Remember to Forget You" with Rihanna.
"El Dorado" (2017) – Featuring the hit "Chantaje" with Maluma.
Iconic Performances
2010 FIFA World Cup – Shakira's song "Waka Waka (This Time for Africa)" became the official anthem of the tournament and one of the most successful World Cup songs ever.
Super Bowl LIV Halftime Show (2020) – Shakira co-headlined the show with Jennifer Lopez, delivering a spectacular performance that celebrated Latin culture and showcased her dance and musical versatility.
Musical Style and Influence
Shakira's music blends a wide array of genres, including pop, rock, reggaeton, Middle Eastern, and Latin rhythms. Her signature vocal vibrato, paired with her unique dancing—particularly belly dancing—has made her performances unforgettable.
Her influence extends beyond Latin music, inspiring artists worldwide to embrace multicultural sounds and languages in their work.
Over 95 million records sold worldwide, making her one of the best-selling music artists of all time.
Three Grammy Awards and twelve Latin Grammy Awards.
Multiple Billboard Music Awards, MTV Video Music Awards, and American Music Awards.
The first artist to perform three times at the FIFA World Cup (2006, 2010, and 2014).
Named Latin Recording Academy Person of the Year in 2011.
Shakira is a passionate philanthropist, founding the Pies Descalzos Foundation in 1997, which focuses on providing quality education to underprivileged children in Colombia. She is also a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador and has advocated for universal access to education on the global stage, including speaking at the United Nations and World Economic Forum.
Shakira was in a long-term relationship with Spanish football star Gerard Piqué, with whom she has two sons, Milan and Sasha. The couple separated in 2022. Shakira is multilingual, fluent in Spanish, English, Portuguese, and has some knowledge of Arabic, French, and Italian.
Shakira's impact on both Latin and global pop music is profound. She broke barriers for Latin artists in the English-speaking world, paving the way for future generations of Latin musicians. Her blend of musical styles, coupled with her activism and philanthropy, has made her a role model for millions worldwide.
Her ability to constantly reinvent herself while staying true to her roots ensures that Shakira remains one of the most influential artists in modern music
Achievements and Awards
Over 95 million records sold worldwide, making her one of the best-selling music artists of all time.
Three Grammy Awards and twelve Latin Grammy Awards.
Multiple Billboard Music Awards, MTV Video Music Awards, and American Music Awards.
The first artist to perform three times at the FIFA World Cup (2006, 2010, and 2014).
Named Latin Recording Academy Person of the Year in 2011.
Philanthropy and Activism
Shakira is a passionate philanthropist, founding the Pies Descalzos Foundation in 1997, which focuses on providing quality education to underprivileged children in Colombia. She is also a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador and has advocated for universal access to education on the global stage, including speaking at the United Nations and World Economic Forum.
Personal Life
Shakira was in a long-term relationship with Spanish football star Gerard Piqué, with whom she has two sons, Milan and Sasha. The couple separated in 2022. Shakira is multilingual, fluent in Spanish, English, Portuguese, and has some knowledge of Arabic, French, and Italian.
Legacy
Shakira's impact on both Latin and global pop music is profound. She broke barriers for Latin artists in the English-speaking world, paving the way for future generations of Latin musicians. Her blend of musical styles, coupled with her activism and philanthropy, has made her a role model for millions worldwide.
Her ability to constantly reinvent herself while staying true to her roots ensures that Shakira remains one of the most influential artists in modern music
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