50 Facts About Shakira

Shakira's Early Life and Heritage

Shakira's roots are as vibrant and diverse as her music. Her background has played a significant role in shaping her unique sound and style.

1. Shakira was born on February 2, 1977, in Barranquilla, Colombia.
2. Her full name is Shakira Isabel Mebarak Ripoll.
3. Her father, William Mebarak Chadid, is of Lebanese descent.
4. Her mother, Nidia del Carmen Ripoll Torrado, is Colombian.
5. The name Shakira means “grateful” in Arabic.

Musical Beginnings and Influences

From a young age, Shakira showed a deep passion for music, which was nurtured by a variety of influences.

6. Shakira wrote her first song at the age of 8.
7. She attended Catholic schools and was often sent out of class due to hyperactivity.
8. Her musical influences include rock bands like Led Zeppelin, the Beatles, Nirvana, the Police, and U2.
9. She also drew inspiration from artists like Gloria Estefan, Madonna, Sheryl Crow, Alanis Morissette, Marc Anthony, Meredith Brooks, and the Cure.

Early Career Struggles and Breakthrough

Shakira's journey to stardom wasn't easy. She faced several setbacks before achieving her breakthrough.

10. Shakira released her first album, Magia, in 1991, which was a commercial flop.
11. Her second album, Peligro, released in 1993, was also unsuccessful.
12. She stopped recording music to focus on her school work.
13. Shakira achieved a breakthrough with her third album, Pies Descalzos, released in 1995.
14. Her fourth studio album, Dónde Están los Ladrones?, reached the top of the U.S Latin Charts and sold seven million copies worldwide.

Grammy Nominations and English Debut

Shakira's talent soon caught the attention of the global music industry, leading to numerous awards and recognitions.

15. Shakira received her first Grammy nomination in 1999 for Best Latin Rock/Alternative Album.
16. Her performance on MTV Unplugged in 1999 was turned into a live album, which won the 2001 Grammy for Best Latin Pop Album.
17. Shakira released her first English album, Laundry Service, in 2001.
18. The album featured the hit single “Whenever, Wherever,” which became a global success.
19. Laundry Service finished 2002 as the bestselling album of the year with 20 million copies sold worldwide.

Multilingual Skills and Philanthropy

Shakira's ability to connect with fans across different cultures is partly due to her multilingual skills and her dedication to philanthropy.

20. Shakira is fluent in four languages: Spanish, English, Portuguese, and Italian.
21. She is the founder of the Barefoot Foundation (Fundación Pies Descalzos), which provides education and nutrition to children in need.
22. The Barefoot Foundation was established by Shakira in 1998.

Unique Singing Voice and Chart-Topping Hits

Shakira's distinctive voice and catchy songs have made her a global superstar.

23. Shakira is known for her unique and mesmerizing singing voice, which includes her trademark yodeling.
24. Some of her most popular songs include “Hips Don’t Lie,” “Whenever, Wherever,” “Waka Waka (This Time for Africa),” and “She Wolf.”
25. Shakira recorded “Waka Waka (Time for Africa)” as the theme song for the 2010 FIFA World Cup in South Africa.
26. The song became the bestselling World Cup song of all time.

Collaborations and Awards

Shakira has worked with numerous artists and has received countless awards throughout her career.

27. Shakira has collaborated with Beyoncé on the track “Beautiful Liar.”
28. The song reached number one in the U.K and received a Grammy nomination.
29. Her collaboration with Argentine DJ Bizarrap, “Shakira: Bzrp Music Sessions, Vol. 53,” reached record-breaking success on Spotify and YouTube.
30. Shakira has won three Grammy Awards and twelve Latin Grammy Awards—the most for a female artist.

Sales Figures and Net Worth

Shakira's commercial success is reflected in her impressive sales figures and net worth.

31. Shakira has sold over 80 million records worldwide.
32. Her albums have been certified diamond (Latin) by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA).
33. Her English albums have been certified gold, platinum, or multi-platinum in various countries.
34. As of 2023, Shakira is worth $300 million.

Personal Life and Hobbies

Despite her fame, Shakira has managed to maintain a level of privacy in her personal life while still being open about her family and interests.

35. Shakira has been in a relationship with Spanish footballer Gerard Piqué since 2011.
36. The couple has two sons, Milan and Sasha.
37. Shakira enjoys working with clay and many of her creations are displayed in her home.
38. She has a strong sense of smell and can recognize people better by their smell rather than by their face or name.
39. In 2020, Shakira completed an ancient philosophy course through the University of Pennsylvania.

The Voice Coach and Global Ambassador

Shakira's influence extends beyond music, as she has taken on roles that allow her to mentor others and advocate for important causes.

40. Shakira served as a coach on two seasons of the American singing competition television series The Voice (2013–2014).
41. She has been a goodwill ambassador for the United Nations.

Cultural Impact and Educational Background

Shakira's music and upbringing have had a significant impact on her career and philanthropic efforts.

42. Shakira's music transcends language barriers and continues to inspire and connect with diverse audiences around the world.
43. Shakira attended Catholic schools and was influenced by Catholic teachings.
44. As a child, Shakira was often sent out of class due to her hyperactivity.

Diverse Musical Influences

Shakira's ability to blend different genres has been a key factor in her success.

45. Shakira's early exposure to rock music, particularly bands like Led Zeppelin and the Beatles, has influenced her musical style.
46. Shakira has also been influenced by pop artists such as Madonna and Alanis Morissette.
47. Shakira's Lebanese heritage has also had a significant impact on her music.

Commercial Success and Touring Career

Shakira's albums and tours have consistently achieved commercial success.

48. Shakira's albums have consistently achieved commercial success.
49. Shakira has embarked on several successful tours throughout her career.
50. Her 2008 tour contract was worth $300 million.

Shakira's Impact on Music and Beyond

Shakira's journey from a young girl in Barranquilla to a global superstar is nothing short of inspiring. Her unique blend of Latin rhythms, pop music, and rock influences has made her a pioneer in the music industry. With hits like "Hips Don’t Lie" and "Waka Waka," she's captured hearts worldwide. Beyond music, her philanthropic efforts through the Barefoot Foundation have made a significant impact on children's lives. Fluent in four languages, Shakira connects with diverse audiences, making her a true global icon. Her dedication to her craft, combined with her humanitarian work, showcases her as a multifaceted artist who continues to inspire. Whether it's her chart-topping hits, her unique voice, or her commitment to education, Shakira's legacy is one of talent, passion, and giving back. Her story reminds us that with hard work and dedication, anything is possible.