Shakira, the Colombian singer-songwriter, has become an international sensation, known for her incredible vocal range, signature dance moves, and philanthropic efforts.
Beyond her music and performances, there’s a wealth of interesting facts that showcase her versatility, commitments, and unique achievements throughout her career.
Here, we delve into some lesser-known aspects of Shakira’s life and career, offering a glimpse into the journey that has defined her as an artist and a person.
Facts About Shakira
1. Shakira’s Full Name Holds Personal Significance
Shakira Isabel Mebarak Ripoll is not just a name; it’s a reflection of her multicultural background. The name “Shakira” is Arabic for “grateful,” indicative of her Lebanese heritage through her father.
“Isabel Mebarak Ripoll” ties her to her Colombian and Spanish roots, embodying the blend of cultures that influence her music and dance.
2. Shakira Started Her Music Career at a Young Age
Shakira wrote her first song at the tender age of 8 and signed her first record deal at 13. Her early start in music led to the release of her first album in 1991, beginning her journey to stardom.
Despite her initial albums not achieving massive success, her perseverance paid off, illustrating her dedication and passion for her craft.
3. “Whenever, Wherever” Was Shakira’s Breakthrough International Hit
The song “Whenever, Wherever” catapulted Shakira to global fame in 2001. Its unique blend of Latin, Middle Eastern, and world music influences, combined with an iconic music video, made it an instant hit, demonstrating Shakira’s ability to fuse different genres and appeal to a wide audience.
4. Shakira’s Hips Don’t Lie Brought Her Unprecedented Success
Shakira’s single “Hips Don’t Lie” broke records by topping the charts in over 50 countries. The song became her signature hit, showcasing her unique vocal style and belly dancing skills.
It also became one of the best-selling singles of the 21st century, cementing her status as a global music icon.
5. A Multi-Lingual Artist, Shakira Performs in Multiple Languages
Beyond Spanish and English, Shakira has performed songs in Portuguese, Italian, and Arabic. This linguistic versatility not only showcases her diverse talents but also helps her connect with fans across the globe, making her music more accessible to a wider audience.
6. Shakira’s Philanthropy Goes Beyond Music
In 1997, Shakira founded the Pies Descalzos Foundation, which focuses on providing education and nutrition to impoverished children in Colombia.
Her commitment to humanitarian causes is a testament to her character, emphasizing the importance of giving back to the community and supporting those in need.
7. Shakira Has Achieved Numerous Awards and Nominations
With three Grammy Awards and twelve Latin Grammy Awards, Shakira’s list of accolades is extensive.
These awards recognize her contributions to music, her innovative sound, and her ability to connect with audiences worldwide, showcasing her influence in the music industry.
8. A Pioneer in Digital Music Records, Shakira Made History
Shakira was one of the first artists to achieve one billion views on a single YouTube video. This milestone for her song “Waka Waka (This Time for Africa)” highlights her global appeal and the digital era’s impact on how music is consumed and celebrated.
9. Shakira’s Contributions to World Cup Anthems
Shakira has performed official World Cup anthems for both the 2010 and 2014 FIFA World Cups. Her performances of “Waka Waka (This Time for Africa)” and “La La La (Brazil 2014)” brought her international recognition, becoming synonymous with the global sporting event.
10. Shakira’s Dedication to Education and Literacy
In addition to her foundation’s work, Shakira has been a prominent advocate for education and literacy, working with global organizations to promote education for all.
Her efforts underscore her belief in education as a means to empower communities and foster development.
11. A Recognizable Voice Actor, Shakira Lent Her Talents to Animated Films
Shakira voiced the character Gazelle in the animated movie “Zootopia,” showcasing her versatility as an artist. Her contribution to the film’s soundtrack, “Try Everything,” was lauded for its positive message and infectious melody, proving her talents extend beyond the stage and recording studio.
FAQs
Is Shakira the only Colombian artist to have received a star?
Yes, Shakira is the first Colombian artist to have her star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, an honor recognizing her immense contributions to the music industry and her international success.
How many languages can Shakira speak?
Shakira is proficient in several languages, including Spanish, English, Portuguese, and some Italian and French. This multilingual ability enhances her music’s appeal and allows her to connect with a diverse fan base.
What is Shakira’s most viewed music video on YouTube?
As of my last knowledge update, Shakira’s “Waka Waka (This Time for Africa)” is one of her most viewed music videos on YouTube, with over a billion views, celebrating a global anthem that resonates with audiences worldwide.
Has Shakira written all her songs?
Shakira is known for her hands-on approach to her music, often co-writing most of her songs. Her songwriting is celebrated for its depth, exploring themes of love, culture, and social messages, cementing her reputation as a prolific songwriter.
What unique record does “Hips Don’t Lie” hold?
“Hips Don’t Lie” is notable for becoming one of the fastest-selling digital downloads at the time of its release.
The song’s universal appeal and catchy rhythm helped it achieve a unique place in pop music history.
Does Shakira have any hand in philanthropic activities?
Yes, through her Pies Descalzos Foundation and various global partnerships, Shakira has been actively involved in philanthropic efforts, focusing primarily on education, children’s welfare, and nutrition for underprivileged communities in Colombia and beyond.