Shakira, whose full name is Shakira Isabel Mebarak Ripoll, was born on February 2, 1977 in Barranquilla, Colombia. From a young age, she showed a passion for music and dance, and began writing poetry and songs as a child. At the age of four, she wrote a poem called "The Crystal Rose," showcasing her talent and creativity at a young age.
Shakira's musical journey began when she released her debut album, "Magia," at the age of 13. She followed it up with two more albums, "Pelígro" and "Pies Descalzos," before gaining international fame with "Dónde Están los Ladrones?" in 1998. It was her breakout album that brought her widespread recognition and success.
In 2001, Shakira released her first English-language album, "Laundry Service," which featured the hit single "Whenever, Wherever." The song topped charts worldwide and solidified her status as a global pop star. She followed it up with the release of "Hips Don't Lie" in 2006, which became a massive success, reaching number one on the charts.
Throughout her career, Shakira has continued to push boundaries and experiment with different musical styles, incorporating elements of rock, pop, and Latin music into her work. She has collaborated with artists from around the world, including Beyoncé, Alejandro Sanz, and Carlos Vives.
Outside of her music career, Shakira is known for her philanthropic work and activism. She has been involved in various charitable causes, including advocating for education and early childhood development. In 2006, she founded the Barefoot Foundation, which aims to provide access to quality education for vulnerable children in Colombia.
Shakira is also a proud mother to two sons, Milan and Sasha, whom she shares with her ex-partner, Spanish soccer star Gerard Piqué. The couple announced their separation in 2022 after more than a decade together.
In recent years, Shakira has continued to make waves in the music industry with hits like "Chantaje," "Clandestino," and "Trap," which she collaborated on with Colombian sensation Maluma. She also made history in 2017 by becoming the first artist to have four Spanish-language songs from the same album top the Billboard Hot 100 chart.
Shakira's influence extends beyond music, as she has also ventured into acting and voiced the character Gazelle in the Disney animated film "Zootopia." In 2020, she made headlines alongside Jennifer Lopez when they headlined the Super Bowl LIV halftime show, delivering a powerful performance that showcased their talents and iconic music.
Throughout her career, Shakira has proven to be a versatile and talented artist who has captivated audiences around the world with her unique voice and infectious energy. Her music transcends language barriers and cultural boundaries, making her a global icon and inspiration to many aspiring musicians.
With her fearless creativity and dedication to her craft, Shakira continues to push boundaries and redefine what it means to be a successful artist in the music industry. Her legacy is sure to endure for years to come, leaving a lasting impact on pop culture and paving the way for future generations of artists.
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