The 10 best Shakira songs of all time

Shakira is a Colombian singer, songwriter, and dancer known for her distinctive voice, versatile musical style, and high-energy performances. Born in Barranquilla, Colombia in 1977, Shakira rose to international fame in 2001 with her single “Whenever, Wherever,” which blended Latin, pop, and rock influences. She continued to have success with albums such as “Laundry Service,” “Oral Fixation,” and “She Wolf,” which demonstrated her versatility in genres ranging from Latin pop to reggaeton and dance-pop. Shakira is known for her philanthropic work, particularly in the areas of education and child welfare through her Barefoot Foundation. She remains a global icon and has won several Grammy Awards and other honors for her contributions to music and culture.

1. Whenever and wherever

“Whenever, Wherever” is a pop song by Shakira, released in 2001 as the first single from her first English-language album, Laundry Service. The song combines elements of Latin pop and world music, and features Shakira’s distinctive vocals and lively instrumentation. “Whenever, Wherever” became a worldwide hit, topping the charts in numerous countries and establishing Shakira as an international superstar. The song’s infectious melody, catchy chorus, and iconic music video, which features Shakira dancing in various natural landscapes, contributed to its immense popularity. “Whenever, Wherever” remains one of Shakira’s most well-known and successful songs, showcasing her unique style and crossover appeal.

2. La Tortura (feat. Alejandro Sanz)

“La Tortura” is a song by Shakira feat. Alejandro Sanz, released in 2005 as the first single from Shakira’s album “Fijación Oral, Vol. 1”. The song is a mix of Latin pop and reggaeton influences and features passionate lyrics and a rhythmic beat. “La Tortura” deals with themes of heartbreak and emotional pain, with Shakira and Alejandro Sanz delivering powerful vocal performances that convey intense emotions. The song’s music video, featuring Shakira in a surreal and artistic setting, further increased its popularity. “La Tortura” was a commercial success, topping the charts in several countries and receiving critical acclaim for its catchy melody and infectious energy.

3. The She-Wolf

“She Wolf” is a dance-pop and electropop song by Shakira, released in 2009 as the first single from her album of the same name. The song features a pulsating beat, synthesizer-heavy production, and Shakira’s distinctive vocals. “She Wolf” deals with themes of liberation and self-discovery, with Shakira portraying a woman embracing her wild and independent side. The song’s catchy chorus and infectious energy contributed to its commercial success, propelling it to charts internationally and making it a favorite among Shakira’s fans. The accompanying music video, featuring Shakira in a surreal and playful setting, further boosted the song’s popularity and established “She Wolf” as a standout track in Shakira’s discography.

4. Under your clothes

“Underneath Your Clothes” is an emotional pop rock song by Shakira, released in 2002 as part of her album “Laundry Service”. The song features Shakira’s soulful vocals and introspective lyrics, and deals with themes of love, vulnerability, and intimacy.

Lyrically, “Underneath Your Clothes” expresses a deep connection and admiration for a romantic partner, emphasizing the beauty that lies beyond appearances. The song’s melody is melodic and gentle, complementing Shakira’s passionate delivery.

“Underneath Your Clothes” became a commercial success, reaching high positions in international charts and further establishing Shakira as a versatile and talented artist in the English and Spanish-speaking markets. Its sentimental lyrics and catchy melody made it a fan favorite and a standout track in Shakira’s discography.

5. I Can’t Remember to Forget You (feat. Rihanna)

“Can’t Remember to Forget You” is a lively pop and rock song by Shakira featuring Rihanna, released in 2014. The song blends Shakira’s Latin pop influences with Rihanna’s R&B style to create an energetic and infectious track. Lyrically, the song is about the struggle of moving on from a past lover while still being drawn to their memories.

The collaboration between Shakira and Rihanna showcases their vocal chemistry and dynamic performances. “Can’t Remember to Forget You” received positive reviews for its catchy melody, playful lyrics, and the chemistry between the two artists. The accompanying music video, which features Shakira and Rihanna in various glamorous and playful settings, further emphasized the song’s themes of attraction and nostalgia.

The song was a commercial success, topping the charts in several countries and cementing its place as a memorable collaboration between two pop superstars.

6. Loca (feat. Dizzee Rascal)

“Loca” is an upbeat Latin pop song by Shakira featuring British rapper Dizzee Rascal, released in 2010. The song is known for its infectious rhythm, catchy melody, and Shakira’s dynamic vocals. “Loca” mixes elements of merengue and reggaeton to create a lively and danceable track that highlights Shakira’s versatility as an artist.

Lyrically, “Loca” expresses the excitement and carefreeness of being in love and living life to the fullest. Dizzee Rascal’s guest rap verse gives the song a contemporary twist and complements Shakira’s sultry delivery.

In the song’s music video, directed by Jaume de Laiguana, Shakira dances in various colorful and energetic settings, further emphasizing the song’s lively atmosphere and Latin influences.

“Loca” was a commercial success, topping the charts in several countries and becoming a fan favorite. It showcases Shakira’s ability to blend Latin and pop music genres to deliver a catchy and unforgettable hit.

7. Chantaje (feat. Maluma)

“Chantaje” is a reggaeton and Latin pop song by Shakira featuring Colombian singer Maluma, released in 2016. The song is characterized by its catchy reggaeton beat, sensual lyrics and the chemistry between Shakira and Maluma.

Lyrically, “Chantaje” deals with seduction and playful blackmail in a relationship, with Shakira and Maluma exchanging flirtatious verses in Spanish. The song’s infectious melody and danceable rhythm contributed to its popularity in Latin America and beyond.

The music video for “Chantaje” features Shakira and Maluma in a vibrant and colorful setting, showing off their charisma and dance moves. The visual appeal of the video, coupled with the catchy hooks of the song, helped “Chantaje” become a commercial success, topping the charts in numerous countries.

“Chantaje” further cemented Shakira’s status as a global pop icon and demonstrated her ability to collaborate with up-and-coming Latin artists like Maluma to create memorable and chart-topping hits.

8. Objection (Tango)

“Objection (Tango)” is an energetic pop rock song by Shakira, released in 2001 as part of her album “Laundry Service”. The song contains elements of tango music, infused with Shakira’s distinctive rock and pop style.

Lyrically, “Objection (Tango)” expresses defiance and passion in a turbulent relationship, with Shakira’s fiery vocals conveying the intensity of conflicting emotions. The song features dramatic instrumentation, including electric guitars and accordion, which contribute to its dynamic and theatrical atmosphere.

The accompanying music video for “Objection (Tango)” features Shakira’s energetic dancing and expressive performance, further emphasizing the song’s themes of passion and rebellion.

“Objection (Tango)” was well received by critics and became a commercial success. It cemented Shakira’s international popularity and established her as a versatile artist, capable of blending different musical genres with her own unique flair.

9. Hips Don’t Lie (feat. Wyclef Jean)

“Hips Don’t Lie” is a Latin pop and reggaeton song by Shakira featuring Wyclef Jean, released in 2006. It became one of Shakira’s biggest hits, topping charts worldwide and receiving critical acclaim for its infectious rhythm and energetic delivery. The song’s lyrics celebrate dance and sensuality, with Shakira’s dynamic vocals and Wyclef Jean’s rapping adding to its lively atmosphere. “Hips Don’t Lie” contains elements of Colombian and Caribbean music, showcasing Shakira’s ability to seamlessly blend different genres. The song’s music video, featuring Shakira’s charismatic dance moves, further cemented its status as a cultural phenomenon and remains one of her most iconic songs.

10. Waka Waka (this time for Africa)

“Waka Waka (This Time for Africa)” is a song by Shakira featuring South African band Freshlyground, released as the official anthem of the 2010 FIFA World Cup in South Africa. The song is a blend of pop and African rhythms, with lyrics celebrating unity, resilience and the spirit of the World Cup. “Waka Waka” became a global phenomenon, topping the charts in numerous countries and becoming one of the best-selling singles of all time. Its fast tempo, catchy chorus and Shakira’s energetic vocals made it a fan favourite and a symbol of international solidarity through sport.

Edward Tomlin is a frequent collaborator with Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us on social media below.