Rise to Success: Career Highlights of Shakira
Discover the career path of Shakira, from the first major opportunity to industry-changing achievements.
Shakira Isabel Mebarak Ripoll, a Colombian singer-songwriter and dancer, is known as the "Queen of Latin Music." She significantly impacted Latin America's music scene and popularized Hispanophone music globally, increasing the use of the Spanish language. She has won 4 Grammy Awards and 15 Latin Grammy Awards, including 3 Song of the Year wins.
1968: Song "1968" on Peligro
On the last track of Peligro, titled "1968", Shakira sings about the years of political upheaval and liberation before she was born.
June 1991: Release of Magia
In June 1991, Shakira released her debut album, Magia. Though it fared well on Colombian radio, it was not a commercial success.
February 1993: Performance at Viña del Mar International Song Festival
In February 1993, Shakira performed at Chile's Viña del Mar International Song Festival. Her performance of the ballad "Eres" earned her third place.
March 1993: Release of Peligro
In March 1993, Shakira's second studio album, Peligro, was released. Shakira was not pleased with the production and refused to promote it, contributing to another commercial failure.
1993: Release of Peligro
In March 1993, Shakira released her second album, Peligro. Although more developed than Magia, Shakira was not pleased with the final result, and her refusal to promote it contributed to its commercial failure.
1994: Starred in El Oasis
From 1993-1994, Shakira starred in the Colombian TV series El Oasis.
1994: Acts in Colombian Telenovela El Oasis
In 1994, Shakira acted in the Colombian telenovela El Oasis, playing the character of Luisa Maria.
1994: Recording of "¿Dónde Estás Corazón?"
In 1994, Shakira originally recorded her song "¿Dónde Estás Corazón?" for the compilation album Nuestro Rock Volumen II, released in Colombia. The song became a hit in Colombia.
February 1995: Recording for Pies Descalzos started
In February 1995, recording began for Shakira's third studio album and international debut, Pies Descalzos, after the success of her song "¿Dónde Estás Corazón?".
October 1995: Commencement of Tour Pies Descalzos
In October 1995, Shakira commenced Tour Pies Descalzos, her first international tour, which included 118 shows and took two years to complete.
October 1995: Release of Pies Descalzos Album
In October 1995, the album Pies Descalzos was released, reaching number five on the U.S. Billboard Top Latin Albums chart and spawning six hit singles.
1995: Release of 'Pies Descalzos' album
In 1995, Shakira released her album 'Pies Descalzos', from which the song 'Pienso en ti' was later included in the soundtrack for 'Love in the Time of Cholera' in 2007.
August 1996: Pies Descalzos certified platinum in the U.S.
In August 1996, the RIAA certified the album Pies Descalzos platinum status in the U.S.
November 1996: Tour Pies Descalzos concert at Mexico City
On 22 November 1996, Shakira performed the Tour Pies Descalzos concert at Mexico City's Auditorio Nacional, attended by 10,000 spectators.
1997: Founding of Fundación Pies Descalzos
In 1997, Shakira founded Fundación Pies Descalzos (the Barefoot Foundation), a Colombian charity focused on building and maintaining schools for underprivileged children in Colombia.
1997: Performance at Festival Viña del Mar
In 1997, Shakira performed at the Festival Viña del Mar.
1997: Viña del Mar International Song Festival concert
In 1997, Shakira performed the Viña del Mar International Song Festival concert in Chile.
1997: Billboard Latin Music Awards and release of The Remixes
In 1997, Shakira received three Billboard Latin Music Awards for Album of the Year for Pies Descalzos, Video of the Year for "Estoy Aqui", and Best New Artist. The album Pies Descalzos eventually sold over 5 million copies and prompted the release of a remix album titled The Remixes.
September 1998: Release of 'Dónde Están los Ladrones?'
In September 1998, Shakira released her fourth studio album, 'Dónde Están los Ladrones?'. The album was inspired by an incident where a suitcase containing Shakira's lyrics was stolen at an airport. The album became a worldwide hit, selling over 7 million copies.
1998: Release of Dónde Están los Ladrones?
In 1998, Shakira released Dónde Están los Ladrones?, continuing her rise to prominence.
August 1999: Recording of MTV Unplugged
On August 12, 1999, Shakira recorded her first live album, MTV Unplugged, in New York City. It was the first Spanish language broadcast for MTV Unplugged.
1999: MTV Unplugged Concert
In 1999, Shakira performed an MTV Unplugged concert. It was the first time that the show was broadcast entirely in Spanish. It was a major breakthrough for her in the U.S. music market.
March 2000: Start of Tour Anfibio
In March 2000, Shakira began her two-month Tour Anfibio, which consisted of concerts in Latin America and the United States.
2000: Freddy DeMann takes over management
In 2000, Freddy DeMann became Shakira's manager, replacing Emilio Estefan, and negotiated a multi-million dollar global promotional deal with Pepsi.
August 2001: Release of "Whenever, Wherever" / "Suerte"
At the end of August 2001, Shakira released "Whenever, Wherever", also known as "Suerte" in Spanish. This song served as the lead single from her fifth studio album and incorporated elements of Andean music.
November 2001: Release of 'Laundry Service' / 'Servicio de Lavanderia'
On November 13, 2001, Shakira released her fifth studio album, 'Laundry Service' in English-speaking countries and 'Servicio de Lavanderia' in Latin America and Spain. The album debuted at number three on the U.S. Billboard 200 chart.
December 2001: Changed Stage Appearance
In December 2001, between Shakira's MTV Unplugged (1999) and Roseland Ballroom (2001) Manhattan shows, Shakira's stage appearance and style changed dramatically, becoming "tougher and wilder", according to Frank Kogan of The Village Voice.
2001: 10 million albums sold in Latin America by 2001
According to Billboard, by 2001, the time she released Laundry Service, Shakira had already sold 10 million albums in Latin America.
2001: English-language market entry with Laundry Service
In 2001, Shakira entered the English-language market with her fifth album, Laundry Service. It became the best-selling album of all time by a female Latin artist.
2001: Shakira discusses musical stylistic 'fusion'
In 2001, Shakira expressed to El Tiempo her view on musical stylistic "fusion", saying that it offers her the opportunity to remove any type of label people want to place on her and gives her freedom.
2001: 'Whenever, Wherever' on MTV
In 2001, the "Whenever, Wherever" music video was aired on MTV with both the English and Spanish versions. It was the first time U.S. MTV had aired a Spanish-language video.
2001: Release of first English material
In late 2001, Shakira released her first English material, becoming an instant pop sensation. Her success was attributed to her poetic sense and a sexy video image built on her hip-shaking belly dance moves.
April 2002: Performance at Aerosmith's MTV Icon
In April 2002, Shakira performed "Dude (Looks Like a Lady)" at Aerosmith's MTV Icon event.
November 2002: Start of the Tour of the Mongoose
In November 2002, Shakira embarked on the Tour of the Mongoose, her first worldwide tour, with 61 shows taking place by May 2003.
2002: Laundry Service becomes best-selling album
In 2002, 'Laundry Service' became the best-selling album of the year, eventually selling over 15 million copies worldwide.
2002: Rolling Stone magazine profile
In 2002, Evan Wright of Rolling Stone described Shakira as "a rock girl through and through", noting her singing as "full-throated and urgent, her manner commanding onstage or on record".
2002: Release of 'Laundry Service: Washed and Dried' and 'Grandes Éxitos'
In 2002, Shakira released 'Laundry Service: Washed and Dried', an album with remixes and alternative versions of songs from 'Laundry Service'. Sony Music also released Shakira's Spanish greatest-hits compilation, 'Grandes Éxitos'.
2002: Looked Like a Latino Britney
In 2002, Ted Kessler of The Observer commented that Shakira "did look like a Latino Britney", with her "all bleached blonde curls" and a "tiny 5ft frame".
January 2003: Performance at United Center in Chicago
In January 2003, Shakira performed at the United Center in Chicago, where her "international ascent" was described as "multilateral, multicultural and cooperative".
May 2003: End of first leg of Tour of the Mongoose
By May 2003, 61 shows of Shakira's Tour of the Mongoose had taken place.
2004: Release of 'Live & off the Record'
In 2004, Shakira released 'Live & off the Record', a CD and DVD live album commemorating the Tour of the Mongoose. It sold three million copies worldwide.
April 2005: Release of "La Tortura"
In April 2005, Shakira released "La Tortura", featuring Alejandro Sanz, as the lead single from her sixth studio album, Fijación Oral, vol. 1. The song remained on the Billboard Hot Latin Tracks chart for a record 25 weeks.
June 2005: Release of 'Fijación Oral, vol. 1'
In June 2005, Shakira's 'Fijación Oral, vol. 1' was released, receiving positive reviews in North America, South America, and Europe. It debuted at number four on the Billboard 200 chart, selling 157,000 copies in its first week, becoming the highest U.S. debut ever for a Spanish-language album.
November 2005: Release of Oral Fixation, vol. 2
In November 2005, Shakira released her second English album and seventh studio album, Oral Fixation, vol. 2. It debuted at number five on the Billboard 200, selling 128,000 copies in its first week.
2005: "La Tortura" at MTV Video Music Awards
In 2005, Sanz and Shakira performed "La Tortura" at the MTV Video Music Awards, marking the first Spanish-language song featured at the event.
2005: Release of Fijación Oral, Vol. 1 and Oral Fixation, Vol. 2
In 2005, Shakira released the Spanish-language album Fijación Oral, Vol. 1 and the English-language album Oral Fixation, Vol. 2. Fijación Oral, Vol. 1 topped the Billboard Top Latin Albums chart.
February 2006: Release of "Hips Don't Lie"
In February 2006, Shakira released "Hips Don't Lie", featuring Wyclef Jean, as the second single from Oral Fixation, vol. 2. It became Shakira's first number one single on the Billboard Hot 100.
April 2006: Honored at United Nations
On April 3, 2006, Shakira was honored at a United Nations ceremony for establishing the Pies Descalzos Foundation, where she emphasized the importance of remembering the children who die in Latin America.
June 2006: "Hips Don't Lie" hits Number One on Billboard Charts
In June 2006, "Hips Don't Lie" made Shakira the first artist in Billboard history to simultaneously reach number one on both the Mainstream Top 40 and the Hot Latin Songs chart in the same week (June 27, 2006). The song was also the most-played pop song in a single week in American radio history. Shakira became the only artist from South America with number-one spots on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100, the Australian ARIA Charts, and the UK singles chart.
June 2006: Start of the Oral Fixation Tour
In June 2006, Shakira embarked on the Oral Fixation Tour, which included 120 shows across five continents and lasted until December 2007.
November 2006: Release of "Illegal"
In November 2006, "Illegal", featuring Carlos Santana, was released as the third and final single from Shakira's Oral Fixation, vol. 2.
December 2006: Founding Member of Latin America in Solidarity Action (ALAS) Foundation
In December 2006, Shakira became a founding member of the Latin America in Solidarity Action (ALAS) Foundation, which promotes integrated early childhood public policies in Latin America and the Caribbean.
2006: Reclaiming Image
In 2006, Shakira confessed to having previously "getting lost in a cloud of hairdressers, make-up artists and assistants" for years, but declared she was then "reclaiming her image" and doing her own make-up.
2006: Recognition in Global Issues Journal
In 2006, Shakira was recognized in the journal Global Issues as a celebrity who achieved success by sharing her talent and culture with the global community.
2006: Duet with Alejandro Sanz on "Te Lo Agradezco, Pero No"
In late 2006, Shakira sang "Te Lo Agradezco, Pero No" as a duet with Alejandro Sanz. The song, featured on Sanz's album El Tren de los Momentos, became a top ten hit in Latin America and topped the Billboard Hot Latin Tracks chart.
November 2007: Release of Oral Fixation Tour live album
In November 2007, Shakira's third live album, Oral Fixation Tour, was released.
December 2007: End of the Oral Fixation Tour
In December 2007, Shakira concluded the Oral Fixation Tour, which began in June 2006, encompassing 120 shows across five continents.
2007: Secures commitment of $40 million for natural disaster victims
At the 2007 Clinton Global Initiative, Shakira secured a commitment of $40 million from the government of Spain for victims of natural disasters.
2007: Release of "Beautiful Liar" with Beyoncé and participation in "Sing"
In 2007, Shakira collaborated with Beyoncé on "Beautiful Liar", which broke a Billboard record by jumping 91 positions and became number one in the UK. "Beautiful Liar" earned them a Grammy nomination. Also in 2007, Shakira participated in Annie Lennox's song "Sing" along with 23 other female singers.
2007: Soundtrack for 'Love in the Time of Cholera'
In 2007, Shakira wrote and co-wrote music for the movie Love in the Time of Cholera, based on Gabriel García Márquez's novel. She sang "Pienso en ti" (from her 1995 album), "Hay Amores," and "Despedida." "Despedida" was nominated for Best Original Song at the Golden Globe Awards.
2007: Mention of "Beautiful Liar" Success
In January 2023, when the single "Shakira: Bzrp Music Sessions, Vol. 53" peaked at number nine on the Billboard Hot 100, it was mentioned that Shakira had her first top-ten in the U.S. in over 15 years, since the song "Beautiful Liar" in 2007.
May 2008: Performance at ALAS Foundation charity concert
On 17 May 2008, Shakira performed at the ALAS Foundation charity concert in Buenos Aires before an audience of over 150,000 people. She also led the presentation of Alejandro Sanz's song "No Es lo Mismo".
December 2008: Named Humanitarian of the Year
In the December 2008 / January 2009 issue, People en Español declared Shakira the Humanitarian of the Year.
2008: Named honorary chairperson of the Global Campaign for Education
In 2008, Shakira was named honorary chairperson of the Global Campaign for Education.
2008: Named fourth top-earning female artist and signs with Live Nation
In early 2008, Forbes named Shakira the fourth top-earning female artist in the music industry. In July 2008, she signed a $312 million contract with Live Nation Entertainment for tours, recordings, sponsorships, and merchandise.
January 2009: Named Humanitarian of the Year
In the December 2008 / January 2009 issue, People en Español declared Shakira the Humanitarian of the Year.
March 2009: Release of "La Maza" recording with Mercedes Sosa
In March 2009, a studio recording of "La Maza" by Mercedes Sosa featuring Shakira was released on Sosa's album Cantora, un Viaje Íntimo.
July 2009: Release of "She Wolf" single
In July 2009, Shakira released "She Wolf" as the lead single from her upcoming album. The single was commercially successful.
November 2009: The making of Saint Shakira
In November 2009, The Guardian published an essay by Euan Ferguson titled "The making of Saint Shakira". The essay highlighted Shakira's impact on social change in Colombia, particularly in childhood education, and her ability to discuss important issues with world leaders. She was celebrated as a saint in Colombia and Latin America.
November 2009: AllMusic Profile
On November 22, 2009, Steve Huey of AllMusic described Shakira as a "wildly inventive diva who created a cross-cultural pop sound rooted in her native Colombia but encompassing nearly every territory in the world".
2009: New York Times Magazine profile
In 2009, Scott Malcomson wrote in The New York Times Magazine that Shakira, with her Lebanese ancestry and English-language songs like "Hips Don't Lie", showed how universal a Latin artist could be, while also trying to stay Latin American.
2009: Description of Shakira's Life and Persona
In 2009, Scott Malcomson's article in The New York Times Magazine described Shakira's life as "relentless and unlikely," noting her intense and preoccupied demeanor, her extreme work ethics, and her attentiveness to fans. The article also analyzed the impact of her "feminine allure" on her career, highlighting her various reactions to it.
2009: Motivation for career
In 2009, Shakira reflected on her motivations for her career, initially driven by a desire to bring joy to her parents and make her country proud. Later, her motivation shifted to doing it for herself.
2009: Release of 'She Wolf' Album
In 2009, Shakira released 'She Wolf', an electropop album featuring the title track and its Spanish version, "Loba." The album's club-friendly sound contrasted with her previous work, exploring themes of female sexual liberation and desire. Shakira researched folk music from different countries for this 'sonic experimental trip'.
2009: Reference to She Wolf Video
In November 2010, The Independent made a reference to Shakira's 2009 "She Wolf" video.
March 2010: Awarded Medal by UN International Labour Organization
In March 2010, Shakira was awarded a medal by the UN International Labour Organization in recognition of her work as an ambassador for children, young people, quality education, and social justice.
May 2010: Release of "Waka Waka (This Time for Africa)"
In May 2010, Shakira collaborated with Freshlyground to release "Waka Waka (This Time for Africa)", the official song of the 2010 FIFA World Cup in South Africa. The song was based on a Cameroonian folk song.
August 2010: Mutual decision to separate
In August 2010, Shakira and Antonio de la Rúa made a mutual decision to take time apart from their romantic relationship, as announced in January 2011.
September 2010: Embarks on Sale el Sol World Tour
In September 2010, Shakira began the Sale el Sol World Tour to support her two most recent albums, visiting countries across North America, Europe, South America, Asia, and Africa.
October 2010: Release of 'Sale el Sol' album
In October 2010, Shakira released her ninth studio album, 'Sale el Sol'. The album received critical acclaim and was commercially successful in Europe and Latin America. It debuted at number seven on the US Billboard 200 chart.
November 2010: Received MTV Free Your Mind Award
In November 2010, Shakira received the MTV Free Your Mind award for her efforts to facilitate access to education for children worldwide, after performing at the MTV European Music Awards.
November 2010: The Independent Article
In November 2010, The Independent published an article portraying Shakira as "living proof that pop and politics can mix", highlighting her ability to balance her artistic career with her efforts to combat poverty and her influence on the global political elite. It was observed that she was equally comfortable mingling with political figures and performing concerts.
December 2010: Billboard's Online Video's Most Viral Artists of 2010
In December 2010, Shakira was ranked number five on Billboard's "Online Video's Most Viral Artists of 2010" list, with 404,118,932 views. Nokia also stated in 2010 that there were more Shakira music downloads in the prior year than of any other Latin artist and "She Wolf" was the top download.
2010: Shakira most searched female entertainer of the year
In 2010, Google revealed that Shakira was the most searched female entertainer of the year.
2010: Launches First Beauty Product, S by Shakira
In 2010, Shakira and Puig launched S by Shakira, her first beauty product and the first of the Shakira Perfumes line, including lotions and body sprays.
2010: Collaboration with the World Bank and the Barefoot Foundation
In 2010, Shakira collaborated with the World Bank and the Barefoot Foundation to establish an initiative to distribute educational and developmental programs for children across Latin America.
2010: Receives MTV Free Your Mind Award
In 2010, Shakira received the Free Your Mind MTV award for her work with the World Cup and other philanthropic efforts, thanking those who supported universal education through the "Waka Waka" campaign.
2010: Release of 'Sale el Sol' Album
In 2010, Shakira released 'Sale el Sol', a mostly Spanish album that marked a return to her musical beginnings. The album included ballads, rock songs, and Latin dance tracks, incorporating styles like reggaeton, merengue, and cumbia. The English and Spanish versions of "Waka Waka" were also featured, along with collaborations with El Cata, Pitbull, and Residente.
January 2011: Announcement of separation from Antonio de la Rúa
On January 10, 2011, Shakira and Antonio de la Rúa announced their separation, effective August 2010, while stating they would continue their business partnership.
February 2011: Agreement Reached Between FC Barcelona Foundation and Pies Descalzos
In February 2011, the FC Barcelona Foundation and Pies Descalzos reached an agreement focusing on children's education through sport.
February 2011: Harvard Foundation Artist of the Year
In February 2011, the Harvard Foundation named Shakira Artist of the Year at its Cultural Rhythms festival, praising her contributions to music and humanitarian efforts. She received the foundation's most prestigious medal.
August 2011: Appearance on Dora the Explorer
In August 2011, Shakira participated in an episode of Dora the Explorer. A song titled "Todos Juntos" by Dora, featuring Shakira, was released with a music video.
October 2011: Appointed to President's Advisory Commission on Educational Excellence for Hispanics
In October 2011, Shakira was appointed by President Barack Obama to the President's Advisory Commission on Educational Excellence for Hispanics.
October 2011: Nomination to White House Education Commission
In October 2011, Shakira was nominated to the White House Education Commission.
October 2011: Termination of business partnership
In October 2011, Shakira terminated her business partnership with Antonio de la Rúa, which led to a lawsuit in April 2013.
November 2011: Star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame
In November 2011, Shakira received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, and was declared the Latin Recording Academy Person of the Year at the Latin Grammys. She was also nominated to the White House Education Commission in October 2011.
November 2011: Honored as Latin Recording Academy Person of the Year
In November 2011, Shakira was honored as the Latin Recording Academy Person of the Year at the Latin Grammy Awards for her artistic and philanthropic contributions, making her the youngest artist to receive this honor.
December 2011: Release of 'Live from Paris' album
In December 2011, Shakira's fourth live album, 'Live from Paris', was released, promoted by the single "Je l'aime à mourir".
2011: Awards and appointments
In 2011, Shakira received the Latin Recording Academy Person of the Year and Harvard Foundation Artist of the Year awards for her philanthropic and humanitarian work and contributions to music. Shakira was also appointed to the President's Advisory Commission on Educational Excellence for Hispanics in the United States.
2011: Latin Grammy Award for 'Sale el Sol'
In 2011, at the Latin Grammy Awards, Shakira's 'Sale el Sol' was nominated for Album of the Year and won Best Female Pop Vocal Album.
January 2012: Chevalier De L'Ordre des Arts et des Lettres
In January 2012, Shakira received the honor of Chevalier De L'Ordre des Arts et des Lettres from the French minister of culture, recognizing her significant contributions to the arts and literature.
June 2012: Release of "Get It Started" with Pitbull
In June 2012, Shakira collaborated with rapper Pitbull for the song "Get It Started", intended as the lead single from Pitbull's album Global Warming.
September 2012: Joins The Voice as a coach
In September 2012, it was announced that Shakira and Usher would replace Christina Aguilera and CeeLo Green as coaches for the fourth season of the U.S. TV show The Voice in March 2013. Shakira also served on the sixth season.
2012: Postponed album and single release due to pregnancy
In 2012, Shakira originally intended to release a new album, but plans were postponed due to her pregnancy.
January 2013: Featured on Ivete Sangalo's "Dançando"
In January 2013, Ivete Sangalo released "Dançando", a single featuring Shakira, off Sangalo's album Real Fantasia.
February 2013: Collaboration with Draco Rosa on "Blanca Mujer"
In February 2013, Draco Rosa released "Blanca Mujer", a duet he sang with Shakira as a promotional single for his album Vida.
March 2013: Shakira joins The Voice as coach
In March 2013, Shakira officially started her role as a coach on the fourth season of the U.S. TV show 'The Voice'.
December 2013: Announcement of new single "Can't Remember to Forget You" with Rihanna
In December 2013, it was announced that Shakira's new single, "Can't Remember to Forget You", a duet with Rihanna, would be released in January 2014.
2013: "Waka Waka (This Time for Africa)" Impact
In 2013, Billboard wrote that "Waka Waka (This Time for Africa)" "became a global hit that transcended the time of the mundial".
2013: The Voice Coach
In 2013, Shakira served as a coach on the American singing competition television series The Voice.
January 2014: Release of "Can't Remember to Forget You" with Rihanna
In January 2014, Shakira released "Can't Remember to Forget You", a duet with Rihanna, as the first single from her upcoming self-titled album.
March 2014: Release of self-titled album 'Shakira'
In March 2014, Shakira released her self-titled tenth studio album, 'Shakira'. The album debuted at number two on the U.S. Billboard 200 chart.
April 2014: Honored with Hero Award at Radio Disney Music Awards
In April 2014, Shakira received the Hero Award at the Radio Disney Music Awards for her work with the Pies Descalzos Foundation and other charitable organizations.
2014: Third Performance at FIFA World Cup
In 2014, Shakira became the first musical act to perform three times at the FIFA World Cup, and Aleiodes shakirae, a new species of parasitic wasp, was named after her.
2014: Release of Shakira
In 2014, Shakira released her self-titled album Shakira, which received platinum certifications in various countries.
2014: Second Season on The Voice
In 2014, Shakira served as a coach for a second season on the American singing competition television series The Voice.
August 2015: Announced as Voice of Gazelle in Zootopia
On 14 August 2015, at Disney's D23 Expo, it was announced that Shakira would voice Gazelle, a pop star character, in the Disney animated movie Zootopia.
September 2015: Featured in Angry Birds POP!
On 17 September 2015, Shakira was featured as a playable bird in the game Angry Birds POP! for a limited time.
October 2015: Launch of Love Rocks Starring Shakira Video Game
On 15 October 2015, Love Rocks Starring Shakira, a video game featuring her, was launched.
2015: Recognized as one of the most influential people on social media
In 2015, Time recognized Shakira as one of the most influential people on social media, highlighting her large Facebook following and her effective promotion of her work and philanthropy through social media.
2015: Work begins on 'El Dorado' album.
In the latter part of 2015, Shakira started work on her eleventh studio album, El Dorado.
January 2016: Releases 'Try Everything' for Zootopia
In January 2016, Shakira released the song "Try Everything", written by Sia and Stargate, for the film Zootopia.
February 2016: Zootopia Premieres
In February 2016, the movie Zootopia premiered and achieved record-breaking box office success, earning over $1 billion worldwide.
May 2016: Collaboration with Carlos Vives on "La Bicicleta"
In May 2016, Shakira collaborated with Carlos Vives on the track "La Bicicleta", which subsequently won the Latin Grammy Award for Record of the Year and Song of the Year.
October 2016: Release of "Chantaje" with Maluma
On 28 October 2016, Shakira released the single "Chantaje" with Colombian singer Maluma as a track from the upcoming El Dorado album. It became her most-viewed YouTube video.
2016: Voice Role in Zootopia
In 2016, Shakira had a voice role in the animated film Zootopia.
April 2017: Release of "Me Enamoré"
On 7 April 2017, the song "Me Enamoré" was released as the second official single from El Dorado.
May 2017: Release of 'El Dorado' album
On 26 May 2017, Shakira's El Dorado album was released. "Perro Fiel" featured Nicky Jam. Its official release as El Dorado's third single took place on 15 September.
June 2017: Announcement of El Dorado World Tour
In June 2017, the El Dorado World Tour was announced, including European and U.S./Canada dates, with Latin American dates to be announced later. Rakuten was named as the tour's sponsor, with Live Nation Entertainment's Global Touring Division and Citi also announced as partners.
July 2017: Performs at Global Citizen Festival
In July 2017, Shakira sang with Chris Martin at the Global Citizen Festival in Hamburg, an event aimed at securing funding for education, food security, and women's rights.
September 2017: Time Magazine Profile
In September 2017, Time magazine referred to Shakira as a "pop legend".
2017: Release of 'El Dorado' Album
In 2017, Shakira released 'El Dorado', an album characterized by versatility and cultural pride. It features hits like the reggaeton track "Chantaje" with Maluma and the vallenato song "La Bicicleta" with Carlos Vives. The album explores themes of love and relationships, exemplified by "Me Enamoré", and showcases Shakira's vocal prowess in ballads like "Toneladas."
2017: Named one of the "World's Greatest Leaders"
In 2017, Shakira was named one of the "World's Greatest Leaders" by Fortune for her influence in the philanthropic world and her effective use of social media to advocate for vulnerable children.
2017: Reference to El Dorado
On March 22, 2024, when Las Mujeres Ya No Lloran album was released, it was mentioned that it was Shakira's first studio album in nearly seven years, after El Dorado released in 2017.
January 2018: Announcement of New El Dorado World Tour Dates and Release of "Clandestino"
In January 2018, Shakira announced new dates for the El Dorado World Tour, which was set to begin in Hamburg on June 3. Also in January 2018, she released "Clandestino", a collaboration with Maluma, as a standalone single.
January 2018: Wins Grammy for El Dorado and other accolades
In January 2018, Shakira won her third Grammy Award for Best Latin Pop Album for El Dorado, making her the only female Latin artist to have done so. She had received thirteen Grammys overall, including ten Latin Grammys with El Dorado.
June 2018: "Chantaje" becomes Shakira's most viewed YouTube video.
As of 1 June 2018, "Chantaje" by Shakira and Maluma had become Shakira's most-viewed YouTube video, with over 2.1 billion views.
November 2018: Release of "Nada" as a Single
In November 2018, "Nada" was released as the fifth and final single from Shakira's album El Dorado.
November 2018: Speaks Against Education Budget Cuts in Colombia
In November 2018, during a visit to Barranquilla, Shakira spoke out against the Colombian government's plans to reduce the national education budget, advocating for increased investment in education and school construction.
2018: Spotify's Most-Streamed Latin Artist
In 2018, Spotify listed Shakira as the number 10 most-streamed female artist of the platform's existence, noting that she had been the highest streamed Latin artist.
2018: Titan of Latin Pop
In 2018, The New York Times called Shakira "a titan of Latin Pop," noting that she had produced rock, pop, and reggaeton over almost three decades.
2018: Announcement of Las Mujeres Ya No Lloran World Tour
On April 12, 2024, during her Coachella performance with Bizarrap, Shakira announced the Las Mujeres Ya No Lloran World Tour, which was her first tour since 2018.
October 2019: Featured on "Tutu" Remix
In October 2019, Shakira was featured on a remix of Camilo and Pedro Capó's single "Tutu".
November 2019: Release of Shakira in Concert: El Dorado World Tour
In November 2019, Shakira's fifth live album, Shakira in Concert: El Dorado World Tour, was released as a digital download.
2019: 30 Fragrances Released Under Shakira Perfumes Line
As of 2019, 30 fragrances had been released under the Shakira Perfumes line, not counting deluxe editions.
January 2020: Release of "Me Gusta"
In January 2020, Shakira released "Me Gusta", a collaboration with Puerto Rican rapper Anuel AA.
February 2020: Performance at Super Bowl LIV Halftime Show
On February 2, 2020, Shakira and Jennifer Lopez performed at the Super Bowl LIV halftime show, which had a viewership of 103 million people. Shakira highlighted the Afro-Colombian community and jointly sang Waka Waka with Lopez during the event's finale.
April 2020: Receives the 2020 Global Literacy Award
In April 2020, Shakira was announced as the recipient of the 2020 Global Literacy Award by the World Literacy Foundation for her contributions to improving literacy for disadvantaged children.
May 2020: Donates to COVID-19 Relief Efforts in Barranquilla
In May 2020, Shakira donated over 50,000 face masks and ten respirators to help combat the COVID-19 pandemic in her hometown of Barranquilla.
October 2020: Appointed to Earthshot Prize Council
In October 2020, Shakira was appointed by Prince William, Duke of Cambridge, to the Earthshot Prize Council, which awards funds to environmental pioneers.
October 2020: Publishes Op-Ed on Separated Children at U.S.-Mexico Border
On 30 October 2020, Shakira published an op-ed in Time magazine titled "Shakira: The Parents of 545 Children Are Missing, and the Silence Is Blaring", criticizing U.S. border control and immigration policies regarding separated children at the U.S.-Mexico border.
December 2020: Entertainment Tonight Profile
In December 2020, Entertainment Tonight perceived Shakira as "one of the most influential artists of the 21st century".
December 2020: Collaboration with Black Eyed Peas on "Girl Like Me"
In December 2020, Shakira teamed up with Black Eyed Peas on the single "Girl Like Me", which was written as a tribute to Latin women.
2020: Impact on Latin Music
In 2020, Lucas Villa wrote in Paper magazine that "In her wake, Colombia has become a hotspot for talent with recent exports like J Balvin, Maluma and Karol G. As Latin music continues to become a global force, we can't forget to remember Shakira's impact in the movement."
2020: Paper magazine recognizes Shakira's ability to transition into the digital streaming era
In 2020, Paper magazine highlighted Shakira's longevity and her successful transition into the digital streaming era of music, despite being an artist from the pre-digital age. In the same year, she was the most Googled musician/band, and the 7th most searched person overall.
2020: First Female Artist with Four Songs from Different Decades to Have Over 100 Million Streams on Spotify
In 2020, Shakira became the first female artist with four songs from different decades to have over 100 million streams on Spotify. In the same year, she broke the Vevo Certified Awards record, becoming the artist with the most videos with over 100 million views.
January 2021: Sale of Song Catalog to Hipgnosis Songs Fund
In January 2021, Shakira sold her catalog of 145 songs (publishing rights) to Hipgnosis Songs Fund, following a trend among top musicians during the COVID-19 pandemic.
July 2021: Release of "Don't Wait Up"
On July 16, 2021, Shakira released a single titled "Don't Wait Up".
September 2021: Releases La Caldera NFT Collection
On 21 September 2021, Shakira released the La Caldera NFT collection, featuring four audiovisual pieces, with proceeds benefiting her Pies Descalzos Foundation.
December 2021: Executive Producer for Dancing with Myself
In December 2021, Shakira was announced as an executive producer for Dancing with Myself, an NBC dance competition series.
April 2022: Release of "Te Felicito" with Rauw Alejandro
On April 21, 2022, Shakira and Puerto Rican singer Rauw Alejandro released the song "Te Felicito" as the lead single from her upcoming twelfth studio album.
2022: Executive Producer and Judge on Dancing with Myself
In 2022, Shakira executive produced and judged the dance competition series Dancing with Myself.
2022: Dancing with Myself Airs on NBC
In 2022, the dance competition series Dancing with Myself, for which Shakira was an executive producer, aired on NBC.
January 2023: Release of "Shakira: Bzrp Music Sessions, Vol. 53"
On January 11, 2023, the single "Shakira: Bzrp Music Sessions, Vol. 53" was released, a collaboration with Argentine DJ Bizarrap. The song achieved number one status in 16 countries, earned 14 Guinness World Records, and peaked at number nine on the Billboard Hot 100, marking Shakira's fifth top-ten in the U.S.
February 2023: Release of "TQG" with Karol G
On February 24, 2023, the single "TQG" by Karol G and Shakira was released. It became Shakira's sixth top-ten, second top-ten of 2023, and highest-debuting single in the U.S. at number 7.
May 2023: Billboard's Latin Woman of the Year
In May 2023, Billboard honored Shakira as the "Latin Woman of the Year", highlighting her record-breaking achievements of 2022 and 2023 and her status as one of the best-selling musicians of all time.
July 2023: Chart Success with "TQG", "Acróstico", and "Copa Vacía"
On July 29, 2023, Shakira became the first woman in history to occupy the top three spots on the Latin Pop Airplay chart with "TQG" at number one, "Acróstico" at number two, and "Copa Vacía" at number three.
October 2023: Announced as Epson Brand Ambassador for Latin America
In October 2023, Epson announced a partnership with Shakira, making her the brand ambassador for Epson Latin America, highlighting her commitment to improving access to education for children.
2023: Top-10 artist overall on YouTube
By 2023, Shakira was one of the top-10 artists overall of all time on YouTube, with over 20 billion cumulative views.
2023: Michael Jackson Video Vanguard Award and Latin Grammy Nominations
In 2023, Shakira received the Michael Jackson Video Vanguard Award at the MTV Video Music Awards, becoming the first South American artist to receive this accolade. She also received seven nominations at the 24th Annual Latin Grammy Awards, including three nominations for Song of the Year.
March 2024: Release of 'Las Mujeres Ya No Lloran' Album
In March 2024, Shakira released 'Las Mujeres Ya No Lloran', an album born out of her breakup with Gerard Piqué. This collection of 16 songs showcases a variety of moods and genres, including Afrobeats in "Nassau," bachata in "Monotonía," and Tex-Mex rhythms in "(Entre Paréntesis)." The album marks a transformation of pain into musical expression.
April 2024: Surprise Performance at Coachella and Tour Announcement
On April 12, 2024, Shakira joined Bizarrap onstage at Coachella for a surprise guest performance, singing "La Fuerte" and "Bzrp Music Sessions, Vol. 53". During this performance, she announced the Las Mujeres Ya No Lloran World Tour, her first tour since 2018, to support the album.
June 2024: Despegar Partnership Announcement
In June 2024, Despegar announced its partnership with Shakira, referring to her as the "world's iconic artist" and acknowledging her significant influence in art and music.
September 2024: Release of 'Soltera' Song
In September 2024, Shakira released the Afrobeats-influenced song "Soltera." The song focuses on the pleasures of living without a male partner. The music video was released in October.
September 2024: Release of "Soltera" and Latin Grammy Nominations
In September 2024, Shakira released the single "Soltera". She also received three nominations at the 25th Annual Latin Grammy Awards, including Album of the Year for Las Mujeres Ya No Lloran and Song of the Year for "(Entre Paréntesis)".
November 2024: Announces Return as Gazelle in Zootopia 2
On 8 November 2024, Shakira announced her return as Gazelle in Zootopia 2, reprising her voice role and composing a new song for the film.
December 2024: Rescheduling of U.S. and Canada Leg of the Tour
In December 2024, Shakira's U.S. and Canada leg of the tour was rescheduled to follow the Latin American leg, due to the demand for larger stadium venues in the U.S.
2024: Shakira launches Las Mujeres Ya No Lloran Album
By 2024, Shakira had sold over 95 million records worldwide before the launch of the Las Mujeres Ya No Lloran album. She is one of the world's best-selling musicians.
2024: Release of Las Mujeres Ya No Lloran
In 2024, Shakira released the album Las Mujeres Ya No Lloran, which topped the Billboard Top Latin Albums chart.
February 2025: Grammy Award for Best Latin Pop Album
In February 2025, Shakira received the Grammy Award for Best Latin Pop Album at the Annual Grammy Awards in Los Angeles. She dedicated the award to immigrants in the United States and was accompanied by her sons, Milan and Sasha.
February 2025: Partners with Hard Rock International for Women's Empowerment
On 27 February 2025, Shakira joined forces with Hard Rock International for a year-long partnership to uplift women and promote inclusivity, with the Hard Rock Heals Foundation donating $250,000 to Pies Descalzos Foundation.
June 2025: Launches Isima Hair-Care Line
In June 2025, Shakira announced the launch of her new hair-care beauty line, Isima, designed with the diversity and specificity of Latina hair in mind, and actively promoted the product on her social media platforms.
July 2025: Becomes Epson Brand Ambassador for META-CWA Region
As of 1 July 2025, Epson announced a new partnership with Shakira, making her the brand's official ambassador for the META-CWA region (Middle East, Turkey, Africa, Central and West Asia) as part of the company's Imagine New Possibilities campaign.
October 2025: Joins FIFA Global Citizen Education Fund's Advisory Board
In October 2025, Shakira joined the FIFA Global Citizen Education Fund's Advisory Board, a partnership between Global Citizen and FIFA in anticipation of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
October 2025: Releases "Zoo" for Zootopia 2
On 10 October 2025, Shakira released the song "Zoo", written by Shakira, Ed Sheeran, and Blake Slatkin, for the film Zootopia 2.
November 2025: Premiere of Zootopia 2
In November 2025, the film Zootopia 2 premiered, featuring Shakira reprising her role as Gazelle, with her sons providing voices for little bunnies in the film.
2025: Voice Role in Zootopia 2
In 2025, Shakira is scheduled to have a voice role in the animated film Zootopia 2.
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