Shakira (full name: Shakira Isabel Mebarak Ripoll) is a Colombian singer, songwriter, dancer and businesswoman, born on February 2, 1977, in Barranquilla, Colombia. Known for her fusion of Latin pop, rock and Arabic rhythms, Shakira gained international prominence in the 1990s and established herself as one of the most influential Latin artists in the world. Her first major success came with the album Pies Descalzos (1995), but it was with Laundry Service (2001), which includes the hit “Whenever, Wherever”, that she conquered the global market. Shakira is also famous for hits such as “Hips Don’t Lie”, “Waka Waka (This Time for Africa)” — the official theme song for the 2010 World Cup — and “Chantaje”. In addition to music, she is known for her involvement in social causes, especially with the Pies Descalzos foundation, which supports early childhood education in Colombia. She has won numerous awards, including Grammy Awards and Latin Grammys.
Shakira is known for her bilingual talent, energetic performances and her trademark belly dancing. With a career spanning decades, she remains an icon of Latin and international pop music.