biography about shakira

Born and raised in Barranquilla, Colombia, Shakira is a hugely popular Colombian pop singer who is known for the hits "Whenever, Wherever" and "Hips Don't Lie."

Who Is Shakira?

Shakira is a hugely successfully Colombian pop singer and dancer and has won multiple Grammy, Latin Grammy and American Music Awards. Known for hits like "Whenever, Wherever" and "Hips Don't Lie," Shakira is the highest-selling Colombian artist of all time, with estimates of more than 70 million albums sold worldwide. Additionally, she has served as a judge on the popular singing-competition show The Voice .

Early Life and Career

Shakira Isabel Mebarak Ripoll was born on February 2, 1977, in Barranquilla, Colombia. With a Lebanese father and Colombian mother, Shakira honors both her Latino and Arabic heritage in her music. She wrote her first song at the age of 8 and signed her first record deal at 13.

Breakthrough: 'Pies Descalzos'

After her first two albums flopped, Shakira took the reins of her third album, becoming involved in every aspect of its production. Released in 1996, Pies Descalzos , meaning "bare feet," sold more than 3 million copies. The album featured her trademark sound, a blend of Latin, rock and Arabic musical styles. Her follow-up record, Dónde Están Los Ladrones? (1998), which translates as "Where are the thieves?", reached the top of Billboard's Latin charts. Not long after, Shakira won her first Grammy Award (best Latin pop album) for Shakira: MTV Unplugged (2000).

With the success of her albums, Shakira became a music superstar in the Spanish-language markets, known for her strong vocals and incredible hip-shaking belly dance moves.

International Stardom: 'Laundry Service'

While hugely popular throughout much of the rest of the world, Shakira had not yet achieved a major record on the U.S. pop charts. In an attempt to increase her American fan base, in 1997, at the age of 20, the singer moved with her family to Miami, Florida, and taught herself to write songs in English. There, she enlisted Emilio Estefan, of Gloria Estefan and the Miami Sound Machine fame, to act as her manager and producer.

In 2001, Shakira released her first English-language album, Laundry Service , which quickly brought her the success in the United States she had been waiting for. The album reached No. 3 on the charts, selling more than 200,000 copies in its first week of release. Laundry Service 's big hits included "Whenever, Wherever" and "Underneath Your Clothes."

'Oral Fixation'

Shakira returned to the Top 10 of the albums chart twice in 2005. She released the Spanish-language Fijación Oral, Vol. 1 in June of that year, followed by the English-language Oral Fixation, Vol. 2 in November. Fijación Oral, Vol. 1 garnered Shakira her second Grammy, this time for best Latin rock/alternative album, while the English album produced the monster hit "Hips Don't Lie."

Touring extensively, Shakira went on to release two concert albums: 2007's Live and 2008's Oral Fixation Tour . In July 2009, she put out a new single, "She Wolf," from her studio album of the same name. The album hit No. 15 on the Billboard charts in 2009, and went platinum in 2010. Around the same time, her hit "Waka Waka" from 2010's Sale el Sol became the theme song for the 2010 FIFA World Cup. Shortly thereafter, the now-global superstar headed on tour to promote her album. By January 2016, the video for "Waka Waka" had been viewed more than a billion times.

By 2012, Shakira's U.S. album sales had reached nearly 10 million and her worldwide album sales had reached more than 70 million, making her the highest-selling Colombian artist of all time, and the second most successful female Latin singer after Gloria Estefan.

'The Voice'

Shakira quickly became popular with TV audiences. Although both she and Usher left The Voice after the season to make room for the return of Aguilera and Green, the season 4 newcomers were back again as coaches for season 6.

More Music: 'Shakira' to 'El Dorado'

In March 2014, Shakira released a self-titled studio album, which included a track with her Voice co-star Shelton. That same year, she took her signature grooves to the global stage again when she closed out the 2014 FIFA World Cup in Brazil.

Meanwhile, the Latin superstar continued working on her music. In October 2016, she dropped a new single, "Chantaje," from her upcoming album, El Dorado . Upon its May 2017 release, El Dorado revealed a tracklist comprised almost entirely of songs sung in Spanish. True to form, the album went multi-platinum for the Latin singer, who announced plans for a tour in June.

Unfortunately, the tour didn't go as planned. Shortly before her scheduled November 8 performance in Cologne, Germany, Shakira canceled the concert because of strained vocal cords. Although she was hopeful of recovering in time for a November 10 show in Paris, she apologetically canceled that one and subsequent dates as well.

In late December, Shakira announced that she was recovering and making preparations to continue her tour. Following another Grammy win, for Best Latin Pop Album, her El Dorado World Tour resumed in June 2018, though another snafu occurred when fans noticed that a necklace being sold on the performer's website bore a resemblance to a Nazi symbol. The tour promoter accepted responsibility for the design and apologized for the "inadvertent similarity."

Super Bowl Halftime Show With J.Lo

In September 2019, it was announced that Shakira would be joining forces with Jennifer Lopez for the Super Bowl 2020 halftime show in Miami, Florida. "I feel incredibly honored and humbled to be, in a way, next to J.Lo, representing the Latino community that is such an important force in the United States," Shakira said.

Taking the stage first for the performance, Shakira showcased her hip-shaking moves while speeding through a medley of her hits, finding the time to squeeze in a few guitar licks, handle the drums and send social media users into a tizzy with her tongue-wagging ululation.

Personal Life

Outside of her busy career, Shakira created the Pies Descalzos Foundation to help children in her native Colombia receive a quality education. She is also a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador, and was honored by the United Nations' International Labor Organization for her philanthrophic efforts in 2010.

Shakira is in a relationship with Spanish soccer player Gerard Piqué. The couple welcomed their first child together on January 22, 2013. They named their son Milan, which means "dear, loving and gracious" in Slavic; "eager and laborious" in Ancient Roman; and "unification" in Sanskrit, according to a statement on Shakira's website . In August 2014, the couple announced she was pregnant again. Their second son, Sasha, was born on January 29, 2015.

Shakira previously dated Antonio de la Rua, son of former Argentine President Fernando de la Rua. In April 2013, de la Rua made headlines when he sued the Latin songstress for $250 million, charging that he had helped create some of his ex's hit songs as well as the "Shakira brand."

QUICK FACTS

• Name: Shakira
• Birth date: February 2, 1977
• Birth City: Barranquilla
• Birth Country: Colombia
• Best Known For: Born and raised in Barranquilla, Colombia, Shakira is a hugely popular Colombian pop singer who is known for the hits "Whenever, Wherever" and "Hips Don't Lie."
• Astrological Sign: Aquarius
• Nationalities
• Cultural Associations
• Arabic/Middle Eastern

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• Sometimes I look at my reflection and I see garbage and I guess I was worried about the size of my breasts for a long time but now I think I have finally reached an age where I have accepted myself for who I am.
• The pop life is boring when you have nothing to say.
• Of course I am trying to make my accent not bother anybody but I am not going to drive myself crazy trying to pretend I am American girl when I am from Colombia.
• I want one day to be able to love with the same intensity parents love their children. Is that possible?
• I admire people who, for the love of art, is able to take their clothes off in front of a camera, but I'm not capable. I'm too cowardly for that.
• The leaders are lacking love, and love is lacking leaders.
• Fame isolates people from reality. That happens to many artists, and I don't want it to happen to me.
• My brain, I believe, is the most beautiful part of my body.
• The worst mistake of a woman is to go in the kitchen, because then she never gets out of there.
• Writing songs has a therapeutic effect, and it either kills off love or wins the heart of the lover.

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• Born February 2 , 1977 · Barranquilla, Colombia
• Birth name Shakira Isabel Mebarak Ripoll
• Height 5′ 2″ (1.57 m)
• Shakira Isabel Mebarak Ripoll was born on February 2, 1977 in Barranquilla, Colombia to Nidia del Carmen Mebarak (née Ripoll Torrado) & William Alberto Mebarak Chadid. She is of Lebanese, Spanish & Italian descent. Shakira began her musical career at the age of 12 and quickly captured fans around the world. She won the 2001 Best Latin pop Grammy for her MTV Unplugged album. - IMDb Mini Biography By: [email protected]
• Children Milan Piqué Sasha Piqué
• Parents William Mebarak Chadid Nidia del Carmen Ripoll Torrado
• Relatives Tonino Mebarak (Sibling) Patricia Mebarak (Sibling) Ana Mebarak (Sibling) Valerie Domínguez (Cousin) Adriana Tarud Durán (Cousin)
• Performs barefoot in most of her concerts
• Belly dancing
• Sexy dance moves
• Frequently wears tight clothes.
• Blonde dyed hair
• Fluent in English and Portuguese, in addition to her native Spanish. She also speaks some Italian and French. Portuguese was the first language she learned after Spanish.
• Shakira means grateful in Arabic.
• Her Lebanese grandmother taught her the art of Arabian belly dancing so she can stay true to her Middle Eastern roots.
• Has perfect pitch: the ability to recognize any note upon hearing it or sing any note without prior to hearing it.
• Is a huge fan of Bollywood movies and music from India. She got in touch with Farah Khan , the most famous choreographer in India, and asked her if she could choreograph a dance for her performance at the 2006 MTV Video Awards. That night, Shakira's performance was the most memorable one as she sang and danced to "Hips Don't Lie" in traditional Indian clothing.
• The worst mistake of a woman is to go to the kitchen, because then she never gets out of there.
• I admire a person who, for the love of art, is able to take off their clothes in front of a camera. But I'm not capable, I'm too cowardly for that.
• It's not easy to work with me, I recognize that. It's not easy if those people aren't perfectionistic as as I am.
• The worst frustration for a singer is choosing a career in making music and then not being able to make music because you're always giving interviews.
• My brain, I believe, is the most beautiful part of my body.

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Billboard hot 100™, hips don't lie, whenever, wherever, underneath your clothes, latest videos.

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Colombian singer and songwriter who achieved international crossover stardom with her bilingual pop anthems.

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Some lesser known facts about shakira.

• Shakira can speak several languages. She is fluent in Spanish, English, and Portuguese.
• Shakira loves dogs and has three named  Coquito, Chan, and Gordita.
• In 2002, Wherever, Whenever  became the best-selling song. Also, her single  Hips Don’t Lie  is considered to be the best-selling song of this century.
• Shakira has had the honor of singing the  2010 FIFA World Cup  official song  “Waka Waka (This Time for Africa)”.  The music video crossed over a billion views on YouTube and still is one of the most viewed videos.
• She has won two Grammys, 26 Latin-American Grammy Awards, five MTV Music Awards and has had a Golden Globe nomination too.
• Shakira also has Star  on the  Hollywood Walk of Fame. 
• The first person to reach 100 million followers on Facebook was none other than Shakira.
• She was only four when she wrote her first poem.
• She wanted a typewriter for Christmas as she always watched her father writing stories on one. She got one when she was seven and has been writing poetry since then.
• She wrote the song “Dark Glasses” because her father always wore a pair of dark glasses hiding the grieving since her brother died in an accident when he was riding his motorcycle.
• She was inspired to be a performer when her father took her to a restaurant where a dancer was doing Belly-Dance to an Arabic drum beat.
• She was let off the school choir at the age of two because she had too strong of a vibrato. She used to perform Belly-Dance on a new number every Friday in School.
• Shakira shares her birthday with her partner Gerard Pique.
• Shakira was known as the “The Belly Dancing Girl” in her school, where she discovered her passion for performing live.
• Shakira found some recognition in her hometown by the time she was 13 when she used to be often invited to perform at different places. This is when  Monica Ariza noticed her and talked to Sony Executives to crack her a deal.
• Sony Columbia signed her after watching her perform three songs.
• Sony gave her only $100,000 to record her album  Pies Descalzos  because they thought that it would not sell more than 100,000 copies. It sold itself well and sold 5 million copies.
• She is already immortalized by having a five-meter statue built in her home city Columbia’s Caribbean Coast.
• Hips Don’t Lie  was the number one single in 55 countries. It was also the maximum played song on the radio totaling 9637 in a week.
• She was listed by Forbes  the highest-earning female artist of 2008.
• Shakira runs  Pies Descalzos Foundation  for helping poor children all around Columbia. Thanks to her father who used to take her to a park where orphans lived, to make her grateful for her life. Since then, she dreamed to help those kids after getting famous. She was also awarded Humanitarian Award in 2003 for the same cause.
• Her Fiance Antonio De La Rúa was the son of the president of Argentina at the time.
• Her IQ is 140.
• Her grandmother was the one who taught her Belly Dancing.
• She loves Bollywood and its music.
• She has been awarded and honored with a medal International Labor Organization.
• Steven Spielberg wanted to cast Shakira before Catherine Zeta-Jones in the movie  The Mask of Zorro. She turned it down because she wasn’t confident enough with her English.

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Look Back at Pop Queen (and Former Voice Coach) Shakira's Legendary Career

Shakira boasts a mythic music career that spans over four decades .

The queen of Latin pop music,  Shakira , is one of the most captivating Coaches who has ever graced one of  The Voice 's red chair, boasting a decades-long career. 

How to Watch

Watch  The Voice Mondays and Tuesdays at 8/7c on NBC and next day on Peacock.  

Shakira's influence as a musician is immeasurable. Born in Barranquilla, Colombia to her Colombian mother and Lebanese father, Shakira quickly became known for her sonic fusion of Arabic and Colombian musical styles. She created an entirely new sound — which has made the "Hips Don't Lie" one of the most successful Latin artists in music history.

From her red chair reign to her smash 2021 Superbowl show, Shakira is a powerhouse performer to her core, continually raising the bar. Shakira is beloved far and wide for her unique vocals and mesmerizing dance moves.

Shakira's career background is a testament to her timeless talent and artistry. Dive into the former  Voice  Coach's impressive career history, below.

Shakira's Early Career:  Magia, Peligro , and  Pies Descalzos

Shakira released her debut album,  Magia  (1991), at just 14 years old. In 1993, Shakira kept the beats going with  Peligro  and, while the first two albums included many bops, Shakira's third studio album,  Pies Descalzos  (1996), permanently planted her on the Latin music charts.

Shakira continued to shake up the industry with her reggae-reminiscent sound and mind-boggling belly dancing, gaining even more traction with the 1998 release of  Dónde Están Los Ladrones? 

Shakira cemented her legacy in 2001 after winning the  Grammy for Best Latin Pop Album  for the hypnotizing recording of her  MTV: Unplugged  performance. But even with a Grammy under her belt, Shakira was only getting started. 

Laundry Service 

The album responsible for elevating Shakira to international superstardom was her 2001 release  Laundry Service.  Before the album's debut, Shakira had relocated to Miami, Florida in hopes of growing her American fan base, prompting her to write an album in both English and Spanish.

RELATED:  Blake Shelton and Shakira Sang a Badass Rock Version of "Whenever, Wherever"

Giving us the  smash hits "Whenever, Wherever,"  "Te Dejo Madrid," and "Underneath Your Clothes,"  Laundry Service  was partially produced by Emilio Estefan, the son of fellow Latin pop legend Gloria Estefan.   Laundry Service  proceeded to be a decorated success, winning several awards in 2002.  

Fijación Oral  and "Hips Don't Lie"

2005 and 2006 were monumental years for Shakira's career as she released two albums that made her a household name.

In 2005, Shakira released  Fijación Oral, Vol. 1,  gracing fans with its sultry lead single   "La Tortura." The album was a bonafide Grammy-grabber, earning her the 2006 Grammy for Best Latin Rock/Alternative Album and four Latin Grammy Awards for Album of the Year, Song of the Year ("La Tortura"), Record of the Year, and Best Pop Vocal Album. 

Shakira was only heating up. She upped the ante and forever changed the future of belly dancing with  Oral Fixation, Vol. 2,  featuring the mythic hit "Hips Don't Lie." Besides Shakira and Wyclef Jean's smash single that has since become one of Shakira's most well-known songs,  Oral Fixation, Vol. 2  included must-hear songs like "Don't Bother" and "Illegal," featuring Carlos Santana. "Hips Don't Lie" earned widespread acclaim, was chosen for the closing ceremony of the FIFA World Cup, and became Shakira's first-ever #1 single on the  Billboard  Hot 100 .

She Wolf  to  El Dorado

Shakira's 2009 release  She Wolf , was an international success thanks to dynamite tracks like the titular hit "She Wolf, "Did It Again" (co-written with  fellow  Voice  alum  Pharrell Williams), and "Gypsy."

In 2010, Shakira released the nostalgic album  Sale el Sol,  a must-listen record that many consider Shakira's nod to her Colombian roots. The album's lead single was "Waka Waka (This Time for Africa)," the 2010 FIFA World Cup theme song. 

When speaking of her ninth studio album,  Shakira said , "This album represents exactly the way I am—my state of mind today, as an artist and as a woman. Some of the songs remind me of my beginnings, so it’s kind of like going back to where everything started, but from a new perspective, with the way I see things now."

Shakira released the grand-slam self-titled album  Shakira  in 2014, featuring the energizing breakup ballad "I Can't Remember to Forget You," featuring Rihanna.

RELATED:  Shakira Wore the Coolest Leather Chaps to Perform Her New Record-Breaking Hit

Shakira's most recent studio release was 2017's  El Dorado,  a fun-filled reggae-pop journey with hits like "Chantaje," "Me Enamoré," and "Trap," featuring Colombian artist Maluma.

Shakira and J.Lo's Super Bowl Halftime Show

An elite few have the honor of performing at the Super Bowl Halftime Show, but Shakira is among the unforgettable ranks of halftime show-stealers. The 2020 Super Bowl halftime show starred Jennifer Lopez and Shakira, who delivered an incredible set centered around Latino pride.

"I feel incredibly honored and humbled to be, in a way, next to J.Lo, representing the Latino community that is such an important force in the United States,"  Shakira told Complex .

RELATED:  Shakira's Two Sons Look Just Like Her in Smiling Selfie at a Dodger's Game: See Pic

Shakira's rock-n-roll medley of her smash hits was a befitting testament to her prolific career. Shakira took fans on a sonic journey through her most beloved singles, pairing the set with the perfect amount of nostalgia, hip-swaying, and mesmerizing vocals.

Shakira's On-Screen Credits

Shakira's magnetic energy and catchy hits have claimed an international chokehold on audiences for decades, leading to many television and film credits since her 1991 rise to fame. Shakira made her on-screen debut in the Colombian telenovela  El Oasis ( 1994) as Luisa Maria. Since then, Shakira's robust career has spoken for itself within many of her on-screen projects.

Shakira, the Guest Star Sensation:  Taina  to  Wizards of Waverly Place

In many cases, Shakira has appeared as herself in television and film, with her iconic curly hair and belly dancing becoming a fun surprise for audiences. In 2002, she appeared as herself in the teen sitcom  Taina,  and guest starred as herself again in the Spanish sitcom  7 Vidas  in 2005.

In 2010, Shakira appeared in the kooky comedy series  Wizards of Waverly Place  as herself in an episode centered around her cameo .  Similarly, in 2011, Shakira appeared in  Dora and Friends: Into the City  when the titular explorer decided to take her friends to a Shakira concert.

Zootopia 

Shakira also surprised audiences with her role in the 2016 film  Zootopia  as the superstar Gazelle, a beloved hip-swinging pop star.

Ahead of the film's release, Shakira created the power ballad "Try Everything," featured throughout many emotional peaks of the movie and featured on her 2016 album  Shakira. 

Shakira: The Voice Coach

In 2013, Shakira shook things up in Season 4 of  The Voice , sitting in the coveted red chair alongside then-Coaches Blake Shelton , Usher , and Adam Levine . Shakira returned in 2014 for another spin in the red chair for Season 6.

RELATED:  Blake Shelton & Shakira Sound Perfect Together Singing "I Need You Now" by Lady A

Fans of  The Voice  loved Shakira for her tenacity as a Coach, but also adored Shakira as a featured performer who took the stage with her rival Coaches for several exciting sets.

These included Shelton and Shakira's duet of  Shelton's "Boys 'Round Here,"  a rock-n-roll rendition of  Shakira's "Whenever, Wherever,"  and many more must-watch performances.

Shakira's Dancing With Myself

In 2022, Shakira appeared in yet another NBC reality competition perfectly suited to her skill set:  Dancing With Myself . Inspired by the many viral dances that have made the rounds on social media, the competition featured weekly dance challenges that required each contestant to learn and execute.

RELATED:  Shakira's TikTok Challenge for Her New Song Is Gold

Shakira served as an executive producer and starred as one of the three "Creators" that guided contestants through each dance routine, taking the stage alongside fellow Voice veteran Nick Jonas and social media guru Liza Koshy. As one of the world's most legendary dancers, Shakira was the perfect gal for the gig.

Shakira's Awards and Recognitions

Shakira's prolific career has earned her international recognition as well as awards and recognitions within the past four decades.

Shakira has received  six Grammy nominations  throughout her tenure, taking home the gold for the first time in 2001 for her  MTV: Unplugged  album. In 2006, Shakira won the Grammy Award for Best Latin Rock/Alternative Album for  Fijación Oral Vol. 1.  Shakira's 2018 album  El Dorado  earned her the Grammy for Best Latin Pop Album. 

Shakira has commanded the  Latin Grammy Awards  stage each year she was nominated since her breakout fame in 2000. Shakira has earned 26 Latin Grammy nominations, taking home 11 Grammy Awards throughout her sprawling career.

Shakira cemented her status as a globe-straddling superstar in 2018 after being included in  Spotify's top 10 most streamed female artists  of the decade, which revealed she was highest streamed Latin artist on the platform at the time.

Shakira's legacy extends much farther than her many musical achievements and countless award wins. In 2006, a 16-foot, six ton  monument of Shakira  was erected in her hometown of Barranquilla in the Latin pop star's honor. In 2018, Shakira traveled to Tannourine in Lebanon, the hometown of her paternal grandmother, to receive another exciting honor: A square in the Cedars Reserve forest named after her. 

“We want Shakira to be a role model for children here," Lebanese consul in Colombia Edmond,  Feris Harb, said . "Her stardom is a good example for the future generation."

Shakira's Philanthropy: The Barefoot Foundation

Very quickly into her music career, Shakira wanted to use her fame for good. In 1997, Shakira founded  The Barefoot Foundation  (Pies Descalzos Foundation), a Colombian charity to aid impoverished children and provide education and meals to those in need all over the country. Shakira has also been a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador and representative since 2003.

"Today's babies will drive tomorrow's business,"  Shakira told UNICEF . "Their capacity to contribute will shape tomorrow's societies, will solve tomorrow's problems."

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Shakira facts for kids

Shakira Isabel Mebarak Ripoll ( shə- KEER -ə born 2 February 1977), known mononymously as Shakira , is a Colombian singer and songwriter. She has been referred to as the "Queen of Latin Music". With a catalog of 145 songs, Shakira has sold over 95 million records, making her one of the best-selling music artists of all time.

Career outline

Personal life, philantropy, other ventures, interesting facts about shakira, shakira quotes, achievements, discography.

Shakira Isabel Mebarak Ripoll was born on 2 February 1977 in Barranquilla , Colombia. She is the only child of William Mebarak Chadid and Nidia Ripoll Torrado. She has eight older half-siblings from her father's previous marriage.

Shakira spent much of her youth in Barranquilla, a city located on the northern Caribbean coast of Colombia.

Shakira wrote her first poem, titled "La rosa de cristal" ('The Crystal Rose'), when she was only four years old. As she was growing up, she was fascinated watching her father writing stories on a typewriter , and asked for one as a Christmas gift. She got that typewriter at age seven, and has continued writing poetry since then. These poems eventually evolved into songs.

When Shakira was four, her father took her to a local Middle Eastern restaurant, where Shakira first heard the doumbek, a traditional drum used in Middle-Eastern music and which typically accompanied belly dancing . She started dancing on the table, and the experience made her realize that she wanted to be a performer.

She enjoyed singing for schoolmates and teachers (and even the nuns) at her Catholic school, but in second grade, she was rejected for the school choir because her vibrato was too strong. The music teacher told her that she sounded "like a goat".

Between ages ten and thirteen, Shakira was invited to various events in Barranquilla and gained some recognition in the area. It was at this approximate time that she met local theater producer Monica Ariza, who was impressed with her and as a result tried to help her career. During a flight from Barranquilla to Bogotá , Ariza convinced Sony Colombia executive Ciro Vargas to hold an audition for Shakira in a hotel lobby. Vargas held Shakira in high regard and, returning to the Sony office, gave the cassette to a song and artist director. However, the director was not overly excited and thought Shakira was something of "a lost cause". Undaunted and still convinced that Shakira had talent, Vargas set up an audition in Bogotá. He arranged for Sony Colombia executives to arrive at the audition, with the idea of surprising them with Shakira's performance. She performed three songs for the executives and impressed them enough for her to be signed to record three albums.

Shakira made her recording debut with Sony Music Colombia at the age of 13. Following the commercial failure of her first two albums, Magia (1991) and Peligro (1993), she rose to prominence in Hispanic countries with her next albums, Pies Descalzos (1995) and Dónde Están los Ladrones? (1998).

She entered the English-language market with her fifth album, Laundry Service (2001), which sold over 13 million copies worldwide. Buoyed by the international success of her singles "Whenever, Wherever" and "Underneath Your Clothes", the album propelled her reputation as a leading crossover artist. Broadcast Music, Inc. , described Shakira as a "pioneer" who extended the global reach of Latino singers.

Her success was further solidified with the Spanish albums Fijación Oral, Vol. 1 (2005), Sale el Sol (2010), and El Dorado (2017), all of which topped the Billboard Top Latin Albums chart and were certified diamond (Latin) by the Recording Industry Association of America . Meanwhile, her English albums Oral Fixation, Vol. 2 (2005), She Wolf (2009) and Shakira (2014) were all certified gold, platinum, or multi-platinum in various countries worldwide.

Some of her songs have charted at number one in multiple countries, including "Whenever, Wherever", "La Tortura", "Hips Don't Lie", "Beautiful Liar", "Waka Waka (This Time for Africa)", "Loca", "Rabiosa", "Can't Remember to Forget You", "Chantaje", "Me Gusta", "Te Felicito", "Bzrp Music Sessions, Vol. 53", "TQG", and "Copa Vacía".

She served as a coach on two seasons of the American singing competition television series The Voice (2013–2014).

On 11 January 2023, Shakira released the single "Shakira: Bzrp Music Sessions, Vol. 53", a collaboration with Argentine DJ Bizarrap . The single reached record-breaking success on Spotify and YouTube.

She is credited with opening the doors of the international market for other Latin artists. She has received numerous awards, including three Grammy Awards , twelve Latin Grammy Awards , five MTV Video Music Awards (including the 2023 Michael Jackson Video Vanguard Award), seven Billboard Music Awards , thirty-nine Billboard Latin Music Awards , twenty-one Guinness World Records , and a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame . She was named the Top Female Latin Artist of the Decade by Billboard twice (2000s and 2010s).

Shakira began a relationship with Argentine lawyer Antonio de la Rúa in 2000. In a 2009 interview, Shakira stated their relationship already worked as a married couple, and that "they don't need papers for that".

After 10 years together, Shakira and de la Rúa separated in August 2010 in what she described as "a mutual decision to take time apart from our romantic relationship".

Shakira entered a relationship with the Spanish football player Gerard Piqué in 2011. Piqué, who is exactly ten years her junior, and Shakira met in spring 2010 after he appeared in the music video for Shakira's song "Waka Waka (This Time for Africa)", the official song of the 2010 FIFA World Cup . Shakira gave birth to the couple's first son, Milan, on 22 January 2013 in Barcelona , where the family took residence. Shakira gave birth to their second son, Sasha, on 29 January 2015. Forbes listed Shakira and Piqué in their list of "World's Most Powerful Couples". In June 2022, the couple confirmed in a joint statement that they were separating after being together for 11 years.

To instill gratitude in Shakira for her upbringing, her father took her to a local park to see orphans who lived there. The images stayed with her, and she said to herself: "One day I'm going to help these kids when I become a famous artist."

In 1997, Shakira founded the Pies Descalzos Foundation (Barefoot Foundation), a Colombian charity with special schools for poor children all around Colombia. It was funded by Shakira and other international groups and individuals. The name of the foundation was taken from Shakira's third studio album, Pies Descalzos , which she released in 1995. The foundation's main focus is on aid through education, and the organization has five schools across Colombia that provide education and meals for 4,000 children. On 27 April 2014 Shakira was honored with the Hero Award at the Radio Disney Music Awards for her Fundación Pies Descalzos work.

In 2005, Shakira became a founding member of Latin America in Solidarity Action, a coalition of artists and business leaders seeking to promote integrated early childhood public policies. In 2008, she served as the Honorary Chair of the Global Campaign for Education Global Action Week. Later, in 2010, she collaborated with the World Bank and the Barefoot Foundation to establish an initiative that distributes educational and developmental programs for children across Latin America.

Shakira is a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador and is one of their global representatives.

Shakira has ventured into many other businesses and industries. She acted in the Colombian telenovela El Oasis in 1994, playing the character of Luisa Maria.

Shakira began her own beauty line, "S by Shakira", with parent company Puig, in 2010.

In December 2021, it was announced that Shakira would be an executive producer for Dancing with Myself , an NBC dance competition series.

• Shakira is of Spanish and Lebanese descent.
• She was raised Catholic and attended Catholic schools.
• At school, she was often sent out of the class because of her hyperactivity .
• As a child, Shakira was influenced by rock music, listening heavily to rock bands like Led Zeppelin , the Beatles , Nirvana , the Police and U2 , while her other influences included Gloria Estefan , Madonna , Sheryl Crow , Alanis Morissette , Marc Anthony , Meredith Brooks, and the Cure .
• She cited Depeche Mode 's "Enjoy the Silence" as the song that first sparked her passion for pop music.
• She often performs barefoot, a form of dance she learned as a young teen to overcome her shyness.
• Shakira is a contralto and is known for her "unique and mesmerizing" singing voice which includes her "trademark" yodeling.
• Billboard reported that as of 2023, she is the best-selling female Latin artist of all time.
• In 2014, Shakira became the first musical act to perform three times at the FIFA World Cup.
• In 2020, Shakira completed of an ancient philosophy course through the University of Pennsylvania , describing it as an impractical hobby of hers.
• She is the recipient of three Grammy Awards and twelve Latin Grammy Awards —the most for a female artist.
• Shakira has sold more than 75 million records worldwide, making her one of world's best-selling music artists.
• She is now worth $300 million.
• "You can't achieve anything in life without a small amount of sacrifice."
• "The worst mistake of a woman is to go to the kitchen, because then she never gets out of there."
• "I know what it's like to feel that fear and the need of affirmation and appreciation. To build confidence in yourself is the toughest thing."
• "I am a person who has many dreams. But as soon as I accomplish one, I move on to the next."
• In 2006, a six-tonne (6.6-short-ton), 5-metre-tall (16 ft) statue of Shakira was installed in her hometown Barranquilla in a park near Estadio Metropolitano Roberto Meléndez.
• In July 2018 Shakira visited Tannourine in Lebanon which is the village of her paternal grandmother. During her visit, she visited the Cedars Reserve in Tannourine where a square in the forest was named after her. The square holds the name "Shakira Isabelle Mebarak".

Shakira has received numerous awards and recognition for her work.

• In 2008, Shakira was named as the Honorary Chair of the Global Campaign for Education Global Action Week.
• In 2011, Shakira was honored at the Latin Grammys as Latin Recording Academy Person of the Year, and by the Harvard Foundation as Cultural Rhythms Artist of the Year.
• In 2011, she received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame located at 6270 Hollywood Blvd.
• Forbes ranked Shakira on their list of "Top 100 World's Most Powerful Women" at number 40 in 2012, at 52 in 2013, and at 58 in 2014.
• In 2015 Time recognized Shakira as one of the most influential people on social media.
• Magia (1991)
• Peligro (1993)
• Pies Descalzos (1995)
• Dónde Están los Ladrones? (1998)
• Laundry Service (2001)
• Fijación Oral, Vol. 1 (2005)
• Oral Fixation, Vol. 2 (2005)
• She Wolf (2009)
• Sale el Sol (2010)
• Shakira (2014)
• El Dorado (2017)
• Pies Descalzos International Tour (1996–1997)
• Tour Anfibio (2000)
• Tour of the Mongoose (2002–2003)
• Oral Fixation Tour (2006–2007)
• The Sun Comes Out World Tour (2010–2011)
• El Dorado World Tour (2018)

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38 facts about shakira.

Written by Rhoda Cardinal

Modified & Updated: 02 Mar 2024

Reviewed by Jessica Corbett

Shakira, the Colombian superstar, has captivated audiences around the world with her mesmerizing voice, electrifying performances, and infectious dance moves. With a career spanning over two decades, she has achieved unparalleled success, becoming one of the most influential and celebrated artists in the music industry. From her chart-topping hits to her philanthropic efforts, Shakira has proven to be much more than just a talented musician.

In this article, we will delve into 38 fascinating facts about Shakira, shedding light on her personal life, career milestones, and various accomplishments. From her humble beginnings in Barranquilla , Colombia, to becoming a global icon, there are numerous intriguing details that have shaped Shakira’s journey to superstardom. So, get ready to delve into the world of this extraordinary artist and discover the fascinating facts that have made Shakira a beloved figure in the music industry.

Key Takeaways:

• Shakira, the Colombian superstar, has sold over 80 million records, won numerous awards, and is known for her philanthropic efforts, making her a beloved and influential artist worldwide.
• With her iconic dance moves, multilingual skills, and global impact, Shakira’s music transcends language barriers and continues to inspire and connect with diverse audiences around the world.

Shakira was born on February 2, 1977, in Barranquilla, Colombia.

She comes from a Lebanese-Colombian heritage, which greatly influenced her music and style.

Her full name is Shakira Isabel Mebarak Ripoll.

The name Shakira means “grateful” in Arabic, reflecting her gratitude towards her diverse background.

Shakira wrote her first song at the age of 8.

Her passion for music started at a young age and propelled her towards a successful career in the industry.

She became a global sensation with her hit single “Whenever, Wherever” in 2001.

The catchy song, with its blend of Latin and pop influences, topped charts in multiple countries.

Shakira is fluent in four languages.

She can speak Spanish, English, Portuguese, and Italian, which has enabled her to connect with fans across different cultures.

She has sold over 80 million records worldwide.

This impressive feat makes her one of the best-selling Latin artists of all time.

Shakira has won numerous awards throughout her career.

She has received multiple Grammy Awards, Latin Grammy Awards, and Billboard Music Awards, among others.

She is well-known for her philanthropic efforts.

Shakira is actively involved in various charitable causes, particularly in the field of education and early childhood development.

Shakira is recognized for her belly dancing skills.

Her captivating dance moves, influenced by Middle Eastern and Latin American styles, have become a signature element of her performances.

She is the first artist to reach 1 billion views on YouTube with two different music videos.

The music videos for her songs “Waka Waka (This Time for Africa)” and “Chantaje” achieved this remarkable milestone.

Shakira has a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.

She was honored with this prestigious recognition in 2011 for her contributions to the entertainment industry.

Her collaboration with Beyoncé on the song “Beautiful Liar” was a massive success.

The dynamic duo delivered a powerful music video, which further fueled their global popularity.

Shakira has been a coach on the reality TV show “The Voice.”

She appeared as a coach on the American and the Spanish versions of the show, showcasing her expertise and mentoring skills.

She has her own line of fragrances.

Shakira has released several perfumes that reflect her vibrant personality and sensuality.

Shakira performed at the 2010 FIFA World Cup.

Her electrifying performance of the official tournament song, “Waka Waka,” became an anthem for football enthusiasts worldwide.

She has collaborated with numerous artists throughout her career.

From Rihanna to Alejandro Sanz , Shakira has created memorable musical partnerships that have resulted in chart-topping hits.

Shakira’s hips don’t lie!

Her iconic dance move has become synonymous with her name and continues to mesmerize audiences during her live performances.

She has a strong social media presence.

Shakira has millions of followers on platforms like Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook, where she shares updates about her music and personal life.

She has been recognized for her contributions to education.

Shakira received the Harvard Foundation’s Peter J. Gomes Humanitarian Award for her dedication to providing quality education to underprivileged children.

Shakira has acted in films.

She made her acting debut in the 2007 film “Love in the Time of Cholera,” showcasing her versatility as an artist.

She is a UNESCO Goodwill Ambassador.

Shakira actively promotes education and early childhood development as part of her role as a Goodwill Ambassador for UNESCO.

Shakira has her own charity foundation.

The Barefoot Foundation, now known as Pies Descalzos Foundation, aims to provide access to quality education for vulnerable children in Colombia.

She has been honored with the Latin Recording Academy Person of the Year award.

This prestigious award acknowledges Shakira’s outstanding contributions to Latin music and culture.

Shakira has collaborated with a wide range of musical genres.

From rock to reggaeton, she has successfully incorporated diverse musical elements into her songs, pushing the boundaries of Latin pop.

She has a strong connection to her fans.

Shakira actively engages with her followers through social media and makes efforts to meet them during her tours and public appearances.

Shakira’s music often carries powerful messages.

From advocating for social justice to celebrating the strength of women, her lyrics resonate with listeners on a deeper level.

She has won multiple World Music Awards.

Shakira has been recognized as the World’s Best Selling Latin Female Artist multiple times, highlighting her global influence.

Shakira has a deep passion for soccer.

She is an avid supporter of FC Barcelona and even performed at the Camp Nou stadium during her world tour.

She has collaborated with the United Nations on various initiatives.

Shakira has been involved in campaigns to promote quality education, combat child poverty, and raise awareness about global issues.

Shakira’s song “Hips Don’t Lie” became a massive international hit.

The catchy track featuring Wyclef Jean topped charts in numerous countries and remains one of her most recognizable songs.

Shakira has received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.

This prestigious honor recognizes her significant contributions to the music industry and her lasting impact on popular culture.

She has ventured into fashion designing.

Shakira has collaborated with brands to create her own line of clothing and accessories.

Shakira is passionate about environmental conservation.

She has been involved in efforts to protect endangered species and raise awareness about the importance of eco-friendly practices.

She is an animated character!

Shakira voiced the character Gazelle in the 2016 Disney film “Zootopia,” adding another dimension to her versatile career.

Shakira is involved in charitable work in her hometown.

She has helped build schools and promote equal educational opportunities for children in Barranquilla, Colombia.

She has a unique vocal range.

Shakira’s voice encompasses various styles, from powerful belting to soulful raspy tones, showcasing her versatility as a singer.

Shakira’s iconic blonde curls are a trademark.

Her distinctive hairstyle has become synonymous with her image and adds to her charismatic stage presence.

Shakira’s music transcends language barriers.

Her songs have been translated and appreciated by fans worldwide, highlighting her ability to connect with diverse audiences.

In conclusion, Shakira’s rise to fame and her numerous accomplishments make her one of the most influential and beloved artists of our time. From her chart-topping hits to her philanthropic efforts, she has left an indelible mark on the music industry and continues to inspire millions with her talent and charisma. Whether you’re a longtime fan or just discovering her music, exploring these 38 fascinating facts about Shakira provides a deeper insight into the extraordinary journey of this remarkable artist.

Shakira is undoubtedly one of the most iconic and talented celebrities in the music industry. With her unique blend of Latin and pop influences, she has captivated audiences worldwide with her electrifying performances and infectious songs. From her humble beginnings in Colombia to becoming a global superstar, Shakira’s journey is truly inspiring. She has achieved numerous accolades, including multiple Grammy Awards and a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Moreover, her philanthropic efforts and activism make her a role model for millions of people around the world. As Shakira continues to evolve and redefine herself as an artist, we can’t wait to see what incredible achievements she will conquer next.

1. Where was Shakira born?

Shakira was born in Barranquilla, Colombia.

2. How did Shakira get famous?

Shakira rose to fame with her breakthrough album “Pies Descalzos” in the late 1990s, which included hit singles like “Estoy Aquí” and “¿Dónde Estás Corazón?”.

3. How many languages does Shakira speak?

Shakira is fluent in four languages: Spanish, English, Portuguese, and Italian.

4. Has Shakira won any Grammy Awards?

Yes, Shakira has won multiple Grammy Awards, including Best Latin Pop Album for “El Dorado” and Best Latin Rock, Urban or Alternative Album for “Fijación Oral, Vol. 1”.

5. Is Shakira involved in philanthropic work?

Yes, Shakira is actively involved in philanthropic work. She is the founder of the Pies Descalzos Foundation, which provides education and nutrition to children in need.

6. What are some of Shakira’s popular songs?

Some of Shakira’s popular songs include “Hips Don’t Lie,” “Whenever, Wherever,” “Waka Waka (This Time for Africa),” and “She Wolf.”

7. Has Shakira acted in any movies?

Yes, Shakira has acted in movies, including the film “Zootopia,” where she lent her voice to the character Gazelle.

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Shakira’s net worth

Shakira’s considerable net worth is no surprise, given her massive popularity in Latin America, the U.S., and elsewhere. 

In fact, the belly-dancing contralto queen is the second-wealthiest Latin-America-born pop singer of all time after Gloria Estefan. (Interestingly, Estefan actually helped a young Shakira translate her breakout album “Laundry Service” into English, hugely propelling her stateside success.)

Since releasing her first record at age 13, Shakira has spent decades recording albums in both Spanish and English and performing all over the world. Over the course of her 40+ year career, she helped thrust Latin pop music into the American mainstream, paving the way for the subsequent success of massively popular modern acts like Karol G and Bad Bunny.

In December 2023, a 21-foot-tall beachside bronze statue of the “Hips Don’t Lie” singer was unveiled in her Colombian hometown of Barranquilla, making her a permanent fixture in the city’s skyline and cementing her legacy as one of Latin America’s most influential entertainers.

After 12 albums, a plethora of film and television appearances, a highly publicized tax evasion case, and now a towering bronze idol sculpted in her image, how much is Shakira worth? What does her income look like? And how does she spend her money?

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How much is Shakira worth?

In late 2023, Spanish sports and lifestyle publication Marca reported Shakira’s net worth at $400 million, citing Forbes as the figure’s source (although Forbes’ profile page for Shakira does not list a net worth — and didn’t when that article was published ).

Most other sources list the singer’s wealth at an estimated $300 million, and almost all of these point to Celebrity Net Worth — a popular but dubious celebrity wealth estimation site — as the source for the figure.

A $300 million net worth would make Shakira the third-richest Latina pop star after Gloria Estefan ($500 million) and Jennifer Lopez ($400 million), and the second-richest Latin-America-born pop singer after Estefan (JLo is Puerto Rican but was born in New York).

Shakira’s income: How much does she make annually?

Entertainers like Shakira don’t have predictable paychecks like ordinary salaried professionals. Instead, annual take-home earnings vary quite a bit depending on each year’s album sales, royalties, film and television appearances, streaming revenue, and other sources of income. As one might expect, Shakira’s earnings have fluctuated quite a bit over the years.

From June 2018 to June 2019, for instance, Shakira was the 10th highest-earning female musician, grossing $35 million, according to Forbes . This wasn’t her first time gracing the top 10, though — back in 2012, she also landed the #10 spot, bringing in $20 million, according to Billboard .

In 2023, Billboard listed Shakira as the 16th-highest-grossing Latin artist of all time.

How much does Shakira make from her concerts and tours?

A large part of Shakira’s wealth comes from her world tours, during which she sometimes sells out massive stadiums and arenas full of passionate fans eager to see her dance and sing live.

According to a 2020 report by Pollstar , she sold over 2.7 million tickets across 190 shows that grossed over $189 million between 2000 and 2020. This landed her the 19th spot on a list of female musicians ranked by touring revenue during that period. In 2023, Billboard reported a more modest touring revenue figure of $108.1 million across 120 shows.

In 2003, Shakira reportedly generated over $4 million from a single show on Valentine’s Day at Foro Sol in Mexico City. 15 years later, in 2018, Shakira grossed around $76.5 million from her El Dorado World Tour, according to Touring Data .

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How much has Shakira made from her album sales?

According to a 2023 profile in Variety , Shakira has sold over 100 million records throughout her career. “Laundry Service,” the pop icon’s fifth studio album, was her most successful, selling over 13 million copies worldwide, according to TheRichest .

Exactly how much money Shakira has taken home from her album sales is unclear, but in 2008, it was widely reported that she signed a 10-year contract with LiveNation to the tune of between $70 and $100 million to release her subsequent albums and manage her tours.

How much did Shakira make from her Super Bowl and World Cup performances?

Shakira co-wrote one of her biggest hits, “Waka Waka (This Time for Africa),” after FIFA selected her to create the official anthem for the 2010 World Cup in South Africa. She performed the song, along with several of her existing fan-favorite tracks, during the event’s opening ceremonies. TheThings reported in 2023 that the song generated $1.4 million in revenue, citing Popnable for the figure.

A decade later, 2020’s Superbowl halftime show featured Shakira and Jennifer Lopez as co-headliners with guest performances by Bad Bunny and J Balvin. The 14-minute performance was widely praised as a high-energy celebration of Latin music and dance, but as is typical for Super Bowl shows, neither Shakira nor JLo was compensated beyond expenses and production costs.

The exposure value that comes with performing in the Super Bowl Halftime Show, though, is significant. It is typically the most-watched television event in the U.S. each year, and in 2020, a 30-second Super Bowl ad spot cost between $5 and $6 million.

How much did Shakira make as a coach on “The Voice?”

Shakira served as a team coach on the popular singing competition program “The Voice” during the show’s fourth and sixth seasons. On the show, celebrity musicians coach up-and-coming amateurs in a team-based competition that eventually results in a single winner. In 2012, The Hollywood Reporter wrote that Shakira’s salary as a coach on “The Voice” was $12 million.

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How does Shakira spend her money?

Shakira doesn’t just make a lot of money — she spends it, too. Like many wealthy entertainers, she’s purchased her share of luxuries, but Barranquilla’s barefoot belly dancer is also a prolific philanthropist, having donated tens of millions to charitable causes throughout her career.

Private island

Back in 2006, she teamed up with Roger Waters of Pink Floyd fame and Spanish singer Alejandro Sanz to purchase Bonds Cay, a 550-acre island in the Bahamas, which was listed for $16 million at the time.

Along with her two partners in the purchase, Shakira planned to develop the island to feature housing, hotels, and an artists’ retreat designed to host a revolving cast of artists-in-residence. This plan didn’t come to fruition, though, and as of this article’s last update, the island was once again for sale on Vladi Private Islands .

Real estate and vehicles

Like most wealthy celebs, Shakira’s portfolio of high-end playthings also features an array of luxury properties and vehicles, including a home in Barcelona, a villa in Cyprus, a Miami mansion, and a rotating cast of Mercedes-Benz vehicles.

Philanthropy and charity

Shakira doesn’t just spend her massive wealth on herself; the “Queen of Latin Music” is also a dedicated philanthropist and regularly donates portions of her earnings to the Fundación Pies Descalzos , or “Barefoot Foundation,” a charity she founded in 1997 to “improve the education and social development of children in Colombia, which has suffered decades of conflict.” The foundation focuses on providing meals for children and building and improving educational infrastructure in Shakira’s hometown of Barranquilla as well as four other Colombian communities.

In addition to her efforts with the Fundación Pies Descalzos, Shakira has made a number of other notable donations over the years. In 2007, she diverted a whopping $40 million of her wealth to help rebuild community infrastructure in Peru and Nicaragua in the wake of a devastating 8.0 magnitude earthquake. Later, during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, Shakira donated a large supply of N95 masks for healthcare workers and ventilators for hospital patients to her hometown of Barranquilla.

Back in 2010, the UN honored Shakira with a medal to recognize her dedication to social justice, at which time the Director General of the International Labour Organization described her as a “true ambassador for children and young people.”

Shakira’s tax fraud scandal: How much did she pay?

In 2018, prosecutors in Spain initiated a tax evasion case against Shakira, alleging she lived primarily in Spain from 2012 to 2014 and therefore failed to pay around $14.4 million in taxes to the Spanish government. Spanish law requires anyone who is “domiciled” (i.e., living primarily) in Spain for more than half of the year to pay income taxes.

During the period in question, Shakira listed the Bahamas as her primary residence but did spend some time in Spain, as she was dating Gerard Piqué, a professional footballer and Spanish citizen. The couple’s first son, Milan, was also born in Barcelona during this period. 

Shakira maintained that she spent far fewer than 183 days per year in Spain during each of the years in question. In an interview with Elle Magazine, the pop star opined that “Spanish tax authorities saw that I was dating a Spanish citizen and started to salivate. It's clear they wanted to go after that money no matter what."

Prosecutors in the case sought a fine of almost $26 million and a possible eight-year prison stint, but in November of 2023, Shakira took a deal to close the case, accepting a fine of around $8 million and a three-year suspended sentence to avoid going to trial. In reference to her decision to take the deal, Shakira stated, "While I was determined to defend my innocence in a trial that my lawyers were confident would have ruled in my favour [had the trial proceeded], I have made the decision to finally resolve this matter with the best interest of my kids at heart who do not want to see their mom sacrifice her personal well-being in this fight."

How much did the Shakira statue in Barranquilla cost?

In late 2023, a 21-foot-tall bronze likeness of Shakira was unveiled on a waterfront promenade in Barranquilla. The city’s then-mayor, Jaime Pumarejo, commissioned Colombian sculptor Yino Márquez to create the statue of the city’s treasured pop icon, along with a sculpture of the city’s coat of arms.

According to the New York Times , the two sculptures cost the city the equivalent of around $180,000. A plaque at the statue’s base reads, “A heart that composes, hips that don’t lie, an unmatched talent, a voice that moves the masses and bare feet that march for the good of children and humanity.” 

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