When you think of global pop star, Shakira immediately comes to mind. Shakira Isabel Mebarak Ripoll was born in Colombia on February 2, 1977. She is more than just a singer; she is a cultural icon. Known as the “Queen of Latin Music,” she has spent many years surviving hurdles, mixing sounds, and redefining what it means to be a crossover artist.
Why Shakira stands out isn’t just because of her music. It’s her powerful ability to bring the world together through her music. Her sound is a colorful mix of Latin beats, because of her roots in both Lebanon and Colombia rock.
Her Humble Beginnings and Passion for Music
Shakira’s story starts in a vibrant, multicultural home in Barranquilla. When She was just 10 years old, she started writing songs, and by the age of 14, she had her first record deal. Her early albums Magia and Peligro wasn’t a hit, but it works as seeds for something greater.
Then her albums Pies Descalzos in 1995 and Dónde Están los Ladrones in 1998 two albums that completely changed her career. With unmatched energy and powerful vocals, these records made her a pop star across Latin America.
The Big Leap: From Latin Star to Global Sensation
with her English-language debut, Laundry Service that came in 2001. Songs like “Whenever, Wherever” and “Underneath Your Clothes” hit charts globally. Suddenly, making Shakira a worldwide pop powerhouse.
The hits didn’t stop there for Shakira. She dropped “Hips Don’t Lie,” In 2006, and the world danced with her. Then came her “La Tortura”, another anthem that showed her fearless approach to mixing languages, styles, and genres.
Shakira’s Songs That Marked Moments in Our Lives
Over the years, Shakira has delivered songs that became part of our lives:
- “La Tortura”
- “Waka Waka (This Time for Africa)”
- “TQG,” “Te Felicito,” “Session 53”
These aren’t just chart-toppers they’re cultural moments.
A Comeback to Remember: Las Mujeres Ya No Lloran
In March 2024, Shakira dropped her twelfth studio album, Las Mujeres Ya No Lloran and fans were just amazed. It was not than just new music it was her way of changing pain into power. The album is packed with collaborations and explores genres from reggaetón and Afrobeats to regional Mexican.
She didn’t stop at the music. In early 2025, she kicked off the Las Mujeres Ya No Lloran World Tour in Rio. By August, she was in the U.S., lighting up stadiums especially the SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles, where she played two nights on August 4 & 5. Where Black Eyed Peas joined her, making those shows even more electric and energetic.
Her shows weren’t just concerts they were full of dance and energy. From CGI visuals, to couture costumes from Versace and Zuhair Murad, and a backstage crew of 175 people who made it all possible.
Shakira: Career Full of Trophies and Triumphs
Shakira’s shelf is bursting with awards:
- 4 Grammy Awards
- 16 Latin Grammy Awards
- Dozens more from Billboard, MTV, and global award shows
She’s also made waves outside of music. In 2004, she trademarked her name globally. She launched fragrance chains, invested in companies like High Brew Coffee, and most importantly, founded the Pies Descalzos Foundation, helping provide education for children in Colombia.
How Much Is Shakira Worth in 2025?
According to recent reports, Shakira’s estimated net worth is around $300 million. She’s made her money through a mix of album sales, streaming, brand deals, real estate, and touring. Just the first part of her 2025 tour brought in over $70 million from 11 shows.
Plus, she’s sold the rights to her music catalog for a sizable sum another smart move that shows just how smart business-woman she is.
So, What’s Next for the Queen?
After wrapping up the North American tour in Fresno on August 7, 2025, Shakira heads to Mexico for 17 more stadium shows. She’s already sold-out ticket sale records in Mexico City, and her fans there are showing up in the millions and waiting impatiently.
Rumors are that a European leg of the tour is also coming in 2026. Fans are also tweeting about her new collaborations, a possible Netflix project, and even more charitable work.
Why Shakira Still Owns the Spotlight
At 48, Shakira is as energetic as ever. She holds the record of most-streamed Latin female artist on Spotify and also the most-watched Latin female artist on YouTube. But it’s not just about numbers. It’s about how her music connects with people the honesty, the rhythm, and most important of all the passion.
Final Thoughts
From her first songs in Barranquilla to shaking stadiums in L.A., Shakira’s journey is the kind that inspires. She’s more than a pop star she’s a storyteller, and a true Latin global icon. And if the past few years are any indication, her next act might just be her best yet.
