With her electrifying stage presence, hypnotic voice, and unparalleled talent, Shakira has cemented her place as one of the most iconic artists in music history. From her humble beginnings in Barranquilla, Colombia, to global superstardom, she’s captivated audiences with her unique blend of Latin rhythms, heartfelt lyrics, and irresistible dance beats. Over the years, Shakira has delivered a treasure trove of chart-topping hits that have transcended borders, languages, and generations.
Whether you’re swaying to the sultry beats of Hips Don’t Lie or losing yourself in the fiery passion of La Tortura, Shakira’s songs have a way of making you feel alive. Her music isn’t just about entertainment—it’s a celebration of culture, identity, and the boundless power of creativity. In this article, we’re counting down the top 10 most popular Shakira songs of all time, showcasing the tracks that have defined her career and left an indelible mark on the music industry.
So, get ready to relive the magic, the energy, and the sheer brilliance of Shakira’s greatest hits. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or just discovering her genius, this list is guaranteed to have you dancing, singing, and falling in love with her music all over again!
1. Hips Don’t Lie (2006)
Shakira’s Hips Don’t Lie is undeniably one of her most iconic songs, and it captured the world’s attention in 2006. Featuring Wyclef Jean, this track blends reggaeton, salsa, and pop, creating an irresistible rhythm that makes it nearly impossible not to get up and dance. Shakira’s infectious energy and signature hip movements are on full display here, making the song a true celebration of confidence, self-expression, and Latin culture. The catchy hook, combined with fiery brass instrumentation, propelled Hips Don’t Lie to the top of the charts, and it remains one of the best-selling singles of all time. With its upbeat tempo and vibrant sound, it became an anthem for dance floors across the globe, earning Shakira recognition as one of the leading pop stars of the 21st century. The song’s success was also amplified by its memorable music video, which visually embodied the energy and joy that the track represents. Whether it’s the irresistible beat, Shakira’s electrifying performance, or the celebratory feel of the song, Hips Don’t Lie has secured its place as a timeless classic in pop music history.
2. Whenever, Wherever (2001)
Released in 2001, Whenever, Wherever was the song that launched Shakira into the international spotlight. Fusing Andean pan flutes with Middle Eastern-inspired melodies, the track showcased her unique ability to blend various cultural influences into a global sound. The song’s lyrics are a celebration of love’s boundless nature, emphasizing how love transcends distance and time, while Shakira’s powerful vocals add an emotional depth to the track. The infectious rhythm and Shakira’s distinctive vocal style made Whenever, Wherever an instant classic, earning her fans worldwide and marking her as a truly global superstar. It was a pivotal moment in her career, as it was not just a commercial success but also demonstrated her versatility as an artist. Shakira’s ability to effortlessly incorporate different musical styles made this song stand out from the crowd, and it became a defining track of her early career. The catchy hook and bold instrumentation cemented Whenever, Wherever as one of the most memorable songs of the early 2000s. Its success not only solidified Shakira’s place in mainstream music but also showcased her talent for blending cultural diversity with mainstream appeal.
3. Waka Waka (This Time for Africa) (2010)
In 2010, Shakira released Waka Waka (This Time for Africa), the official anthem for the FIFA World Cup, and the song became an instant global sensation. The track’s vibrant African beats and infectious chorus united fans from all corners of the world, making it a symbol of celebration, resilience, and unity. Shakira’s charismatic performance and catchy rhythm drew people into the spirit of the World Cup, turning the song into a massive hit. The song’s lyrics focus on themes of strength and togetherness, encouraging listeners to face challenges with optimism and determination. Its catchy and anthemic nature made Waka Waka the perfect soundtrack for the global sporting event. The song was further amplified by its colorful and energetic music video, which featured Shakira dancing alongside South African musicians and dancers, visually capturing the song’s message of unity through music. It quickly became a fan favorite, not just for its musical qualities, but for its ability to bring people from all walks of life together, making it one of the most successful songs of Shakira’s career. Waka Waka continues to be a cultural touchstone, representing the joy and excitement of international sporting events.
4. La Tortura (2005)
La Tortura, released in 2005, is an electrifying reggaeton-pop duet with Spanish singer Alejandro Sanz. The song stands out for its sultry rhythms and emotional depth, as Shakira explores the pain of unrequited love. Sung primarily in Spanish, La Tortura mixes seductive instrumentation with heartfelt lyrics that speak to the complexities of love and longing. Shakira’s distinctive vocal delivery and Alejandro Sanz’s emotive voice create a captivating chemistry, making the song a standout in both the Latin music scene and beyond. The song’s rhythm, which blends reggaeton with traditional Latin instruments, creates an irresistible groove that draws listeners in, while the lyrics speak to the emotional turmoil of a relationship on the brink of collapse. La Tortura was a massive hit in Latin America and internationally, showcasing Shakira’s ability to craft a song that is both commercially successful and emotionally resonant. Its infectious beat and emotional vocal delivery made it a favorite for fans of Latin pop and reggaeton. The song’s success marked a defining moment in Shakira’s career, further solidifying her place as one of the most influential Latin artists of her generation.
5. Underneath Your Clothes (2002)
Underneath Your Clothes, released in 2002, is a romantic ballad that presents a softer side of Shakira’s musical identity. With its heartfelt lyrics and sweeping melody, the song expresses a deep, unconditional love, and it quickly became a love anthem for couples around the world. The track is a beautiful contrast to Shakira’s more upbeat hits, as it focuses on the tenderness and vulnerability of a romantic relationship. Shakira’s emotive voice shines through as she sings about love’s power to transcend physical appearances and societal norms. The lyrics paint a picture of complete devotion, while the lush instrumentation builds a dreamy and intimate atmosphere. Underneath Your Clothes was a commercial success, reaching audiences across various demographics and solidifying Shakira’s crossover appeal to English-speaking audiences. The song’s emotional depth, combined with its melodic beauty, made it a memorable ballad that still resonates with listeners today. It showed another side of Shakira’s artistry, allowing her to be seen not only as a pop sensation but also as a thoughtful and vulnerable singer-songwriter. Underneath Your Clothes remains one of her most endearing tracks, capturing the essence of romantic love in a way that feels both personal and universal.
6. She Wolf (2009)
In 2009, Shakira unleashed her wild side with the release of She Wolf, an electro-pop track that was unlike anything she had done before. The song is characterized by its funky bassline, pulsating beats, and infectious hook, making it an instant fan favorite. She Wolf explores themes of liberation and self-expression, with Shakira singing about shedding societal expectations and embracing one’s true self. The lyrics highlight the desire to break free from the constraints of a conventional life, allowing for a more liberated and empowered existence. Shakira’s sultry vocals dominate the track, adding an extra layer of allure to the song’s daring concept. The quirky and whimsical music video, featuring Shakira transforming into a werewolf, further enhances the song’s playful and bold nature. The electro-pop production, with its experimental sounds, was a departure from Shakira’s previous work, marking a bold evolution in her sound. She Wolf received praise for its originality and Shakira’s willingness to take creative risks. The song’s catchy rhythm and unique sound ensured its place as a standout track in her catalog, and it continues to be a fan favorite for its boldness and energy.
7. Chantaje (2016)
Chantaje, released in 2016, was a major hit and became one of Shakira’s most popular tracks in recent years. Featuring Colombian reggaeton artist Maluma, the song blends sultry rhythms with a playful, flirtatious vibe. The chemistry between Shakira and Maluma is palpable, adding a layer of intrigue and sensuality to the song. Chantaje explores themes of desire and manipulation, with the lyrics reflecting a complicated relationship dynamic full of tension and passion. The infectious reggaeton beat is perfect for dancing, and the vocal interplay between Shakira and Maluma creates a captivating energy that keeps listeners hooked from start to finish. The song’s production, which blends Latin pop with reggaeton, captures the sensual and fiery nature of the track. Chantaje was a commercial success, topping charts and receiving widespread acclaim for its catchy hook and irresistible rhythm. The accompanying music video, which showcases Shakira’s fierce performance and chemistry with Maluma, only added to the song’s popularity. Chantaje became a global dance anthem, and it remains a staple in Shakira’s repertoire, showcasing her ability to create songs that are both seductive and fun.
8. Ojos Así (1998)
Released in 1998, Ojos Así is one of Shakira’s early hits and showcases her deep-rooted Middle Eastern influences. The track features exotic instrumentation, with Arabic-inspired melodies and rhythms, making it stand out from the rest of her early work. Shakira’s dynamic vocal performance, which blends Latin and Middle Eastern influences, helped set her apart from other artists in the Latin music scene. The song tells the story of a passionate, intense love, and Shakira’s voice conveys the longing and desire of the lyrics with emotion and power. The track’s unique fusion of sounds demonstrated Shakira’s ability to experiment with different genres and create something entirely new. Ojos Así was a breakthrough moment for Shakira, helping her gain recognition as an artist with a distinctive style and sound. Its success in Latin America, coupled with its innovative use of Arabic-inspired music, set the stage for Shakira’s international career. The song remains a fan favorite for its bold experimentation and Shakira’s ability to weave together diverse cultural influences into a cohesive and captivating track.
9. Beautiful Liar (2007)
In 2007, Shakira teamed up with Beyoncé for the powerful collaboration Beautiful Liar. The song blends sultry Latin rhythms with contemporary pop, creating a smooth, seductive vibe. The track’s lyrics, which explore the complexity of relationships and the theme of deception, are delivered with undeniable chemistry between the two powerhouse vocalists. Shakira and Beyoncé’s voices intertwine beautifully, creating an unforgettable musical experience. The song’s message of unity and forgiveness resonated deeply with fans, and its infectious rhythm and vocal harmonies made it a chart-topping hit. The fusion of Latin-inspired beats with modern pop sensibilities showcased both artists’ versatility and talent. The music video, which features Shakira and Beyoncé in visually striking, synchronized performances, helped elevate the song’s appeal. Beautiful Liar was a global hit, not just for its catchy melody but for the way it brought together two iconic female artists. The track became a celebration of female strength and resilience, and its enduring popularity proves its place as one of the most memorable collaborations in pop music.
10. Estoy Aquí (1995)
Estoy Aquí, released in 1995, was Shakira’s breakthrough single in the Latin music scene and marked the beginning of her rise to stardom. The song, a pop-rock anthem, showcases Shakira’s distinctive voice and exceptional songwriting skills. Its lyrics, filled with raw emotion and vulnerability, capture the intense feelings of longing and heartbreak that come with unrequited love. The track’s energetic beat and passionate vocals made it an instant hit, earning Shakira recognition across Latin America and beyond. Estoy Aquí became one of the defining songs of Shakira’s early career, showcasing her ability to craft deeply emotional music that resonates with listeners. The song’s success helped Shakira gain a devoted fan base, and it set the stage for her eventual international breakthrough. Estoy Aquí remains a powerful track in Shakira’s catalog, representing the early stages of her career and the emotional depth that would continue to define her music. The song’s success was a turning point for Shakira, marking the beginning of a journey that would make her one of the most successful and influential artists in the world.
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.
