Shakira, the Colombian-born singer and songwriter, rose to superstardom in Latin America and became a major international crossover artist in the world of Latin pop. With millions of records sold and hundreds of awards under her belt, Shakira is known for her rock-influenced style and meticulous control over her music, often writing or co-writing her own songs. Her breakthrough albums in the ’90s, Pies Descalzos and Dónde Están los Ladrones?, set the stage for her global success with the chart-topping English-language debut, Laundry Service, in 2001. Hits like ‘Whenever, Wherever’ propelled her to pop sensation status, leading to a string of platinum-certified albums and chart-topping singles across Spanish and English markets.
Born Shakira Isabel Mebarak Ripoll in Barranquilla, Colombia, on February 2, 1977, Shakira grew up in a multicultural environment with influences from her native Colombian heritage and Lebanese roots. Her musical journey started at a young age, composing her first song at eight and winning talent competitions by ten. Moving to Bogotá at 13, she pursued a music career and released her debut album, Magia, in 1991. Despite early challenges, her rise to fame began with the release of Pies Descalzos in 1995, which showcased her unique blend of Latin pop with rock and Arabic elements, capturing audiences globally.