Shakira Isabel Mebarak Ripoll, known worldwide simply as Shakira, was born on February 2, 1977, in Barranquilla, Colombia. From a very young age, she showed a natural talent for music, dance, and poetry—writing her first song at the age of eight and recording her first album at thirteen.
Of Lebanese and Colombian descent, Shakira fused her Arabic roots with pop, rock, and Latin music from the beginning, creating a unique style that would captivate the world. After some modest beginnings, her big breakthrough came with “Pies Descalzos” (1995), an album that launched her to stardom in Latin America thanks to hits like “Estoy Aquí” and “Antología.”
Her true international leap came with “¿Dónde Están los Ladrones?” (1998), produced by Emilio Estefan, where songs like “Ojos Así” showcased her multicultural flair and powerful stage presence. In 2001, she reinvented herself to conquer the English-speaking market with “Laundry Service”, her first English-language album, which included global hits like “Whenever, Wherever” and “Underneath Your Clothes.”
Shakira is not only an exceptional singer but also a talented dancer—famous for blending belly dance with pop—songwriter, producer, and entrepreneur. She has won multiple Grammy and Latin Grammy Awards, sold over 80 million records worldwide, and has been recognized as one of the most influential Latin artists in history.
Throughout her career, she has constantly evolved, exploring genres like reggaeton and trap in hits such as “Chantaje” (with Maluma) and “TQG” (with Karol G). In 2023, following her separation from footballer Gerard Piqué, she returned powerfully with songs like “Monotonía,” “BZRP Music Sessions #53,” and “Acróstico,” showcasing her vulnerability, maturity, and strength as a woman.
Beyond her artistic career, Shakira is also a passionate philanthropist. She founded the Pies Descalzos Foundation, dedicated to improving childhood education in Colombia, and has served as a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador.
Shakira is much more than a global pop star: she is a symbol of empowerment, an ambassador of Latin culture, and an artist who has taken her voice—both literally and figuratively—to the farthest corners of the world.