Shakira Isabel Mebarak Ripoll, more often known as Shakira, is a Colombian singer, songwriter, dancer, and philanthropist. Shakira was born on February 2, 1977, in Barranquilla, Colombia, and her distinct combination of Latin, rock, and pop music has garnered her worldwide fame and a devoted fan base. Her name means “grateful” in Arabic, referring to her father’s Lebanese origin, while her mother is of Spanish and Italian descent. Shakira has had a passion for music and dancing from an early age, writing her first song at the age of eight and obtaining her first record deal at thirteen.
Shakira Age
As of 2024, Shakira is 47 years old.
Shakira Personal Life
Shakira’s personal life has frequently been in the limelight, particularly her relationship with Spanish footballer Gerard Piqué. The couple met in 2010 and have two boys, Milan and Sasha. Shakira and Piqué have kept their family life discreet despite their high-profile reputation.
Shakira is well-known for her charitable work and her family life. She started the Barefoot Foundation (Fundación Pies Descalzos), which focuses on education and nutrition for Colombia’s impoverished children. Her commitment to philanthropic efforts earned her the title of UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador in 2003.
Shakira Career
Shakira’s career began with her debut album, Magia (1990), a collection of songs she had composed since she was eight. Although the record was not a monetary success, it was a significant stride in her career. Her breakout album Pies Descalzos (1995) featured smash songs “Estoy Aquí” and “Pies Descalzos, Sueños Blancos.” This record propelled her to stardom in Latin America and Spain.
Shakira’s fifth album, Laundry Service, was released in 2001, marking her debut in the English-language market. The album, which included singles like “Whenever, Wherever” and “Underneath Your Clothes,” was a financial triumph, selling more than 13 million copies worldwide. She continues to produce popular albums, including Fijación Oral, Vol. 1 (2005), Oral Fixation, Vol. 2 (2005), and She Wolf (2009).
Shakira’s career skyrocketed with her 2010 smash single “Waka Waka (This Time for Africa),” which was the official song of the 2010 FIFA World Cup. This song became one of the best-selling songs of all time, cementing her reputation as a global superstar.
Shakira Songs
Hit songs from Shakira’s collection characterize her career and have had a long-lasting effect on the music business. Among her greatest songs are:
- “Hips Don’t Lie” (feat. Wyclef Jean): This song is one of Shakira’s most successful singles, reaching number one in multiple countries and becoming the best-selling single of the 21st century.
- “Whenever, Wherever”: This song marked her crossover into the English-language market and remains one of her most iconic tracks.
- “Waka Waka (This Time for Africa)”: The official song for the 2010 FIFA World Cup, this track became an anthem and introduced Shakira to a global audience.
- “She Wolf”: Known for its distinctive electro-pop sound, this song showcased Shakira’s versatility as an artist.
- “La Tortura” (feat. Alejandro Sanz): A major hit in the Latin music market, this song demonstrated her ability to blend Latin rhythms with pop music seamlessly.
Shakira Awards
Many awards and praise have been given to Shakira for her ability and hard work throughout her career. She has won:
- 3 Grammy Awards: Including Best Latin Pop Album for Shakira: MTV Unplugged.
- 12 Latin Grammy Awards: Including Album of the Year for Fijación Oral, Vol. 1.
- 4 MTV Video Music Awards: Including the Video Vanguard Award in 2006.
- 7 Billboard Music Awards: Celebrating her success on the charts.
- 39 Billboard Latin Music Awards: Recognizing her impact on Latin music.
Shakira Net Worth
Shakira’s net worth is estimated to be approximately $300 million as of 2024. Her wealth is derived from her successful music career, lucrative endorsements, and business ventures. Shakira has bolstered her already remarkable financial portfolio by serving as a judge on the popular television program The Voice and investing in a variety of philanthropic endeavors.
Shakira Facts
- At the age of four, she acquired the skill of belly dancing.
- At the age of 13, she relocated to Bogotá, Colombia, to pursue a career in modeling. However, she ultimately signed a recording contract with Sony Music Colombia.
- Participated in the 1994 Colombian telenovela El Oasis.
- Gloria Estefan assisted in the translation of “Ojos Así” for Shakira’s inaugural English-language album, Laundry Service.
- Mattel introduced a Shakira figurine in 2003.
- In 2006, he was awarded a UN humanitarian award for establishing Barefoot, a Colombian charity that assists children in escaping violence.
- Launched the cosmetics line “S by Shakira” in 2010.
- In 2011, Barack Obama appointed me to the Advisory Commission on Education Excellence for Hispanics.
- Honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 2011
- Frequently performs in concert without shoes
Shakira Quotes
- When I look in the mirror, I sometimes see trash. I think I worried about the size of my breasts for a long time, but I think I’m finally at an age where I can accept myself as I am.
- Not having anything to say makes the pop life dull.
Of course, I’m trying not to disturb anyone with my accent, but I’m not going to drive myself crazy pretending to be an American lady when I’m from Colombia. - I want to one day be able to love with the same intensity that parents love their children. Is this possible?
- I appreciate those who can strip naked in front of a camera for the sake of art, but I am not one of them. I am too cowardly for it.
- Leaders lack love, and love lacks leaders.
- Fame separates individuals from reality. This occurs to many artists, and I do not want it to happen to me.
- I feel that my brain is the most attractive portion of my body.
- The biggest mistake a woman can make is to walk into the kitchen and not leave.
- Writing songs has a therapeutic impact and may either destroy love or win the lover’s heart.
Social Media handles
Shakira keeps fans up-to-date on her musical projects, private life, and donations through her many social media accounts. Fans can follow her verified handles:
