Shakira: The Global Queen of Latin Pop – Early Life, Career, Family, and Beyond

Shakira Isabel Mebarak Ripoll, known simply as Shakira, is a name that resonates worldwide. With her distinctive voice, mesmerizing dance moves, and heartfelt lyrics, she has captivated audiences for decades. From her roots in Colombia to her status as a global icon, Shakira’s journey is one of talent, resilience, and reinvention.

In this comprehensive blog post, we explore every facet of her life—early life, education, career, family, relationships, net worth, controversies, and recent news in 2025.

This guide is your ultimate resource on the Latin pop queen.

Shakira #Shakira

Early Life: A Star Born in Barranquilla

Shakira was born on February 2, 1977, in Barranquilla, Colombia, a coastal city vibrant with Caribbean culture. Her early life was shaped by a blend of Colombian and Lebanese influences, which later infused her music with its unique flavor. Raised in a middle-class household, Shakira showed prodigious talent from a young age, writing her first poem at four and composing songs by eight. Her nickname, “Shakira,” meaning “grateful” in Arabic, reflects her optimistic spirit.

Growing up in Barranquilla’s diverse community, she was exposed to salsa, merengue, and Middle Eastern rhythms, which became hallmarks of her sound. Despite financial struggles in her family, Shakira’s creativity flourished, fueled by her father’s encouragement and her own determination.

Age in 2025: As of April 2025, Shakira is 48 years old, yet her energy and relevance rival artists half her age.

Education: Balancing Books and Dreams

Shakira’s education took place in Barranquilla, where she attended Catholic schools, including La Enseñanza School. A bright student, she excelled in writing and the arts but struggled with discipline, once being kicked out of her school choir for her “goat-like” vibrato—a trait that later became her signature. Her teachers recognized her potential, though her passion for performing often overshadowed academics.

At 13, Shakira moved to Bogotá to pursue modeling but landed a record deal instead, marking the start of her music career. She never pursued formal higher education, choosing to focus on her craft. However, her intellectual curiosity led her to self-educate, with a particular interest in history and languages—she speaks fluent Spanish, English, Portuguese, and conversational Arabic.

Career: From Local Talent to Global Superstar

Shakira’s career spans over three decades, evolving from a teenage rocker to a global pop icon. Her journey is a masterclass in adaptability and authenticity.

Early Beginnings

At 13, Shakira signed with Sony Music Colombia, releasing her debut album, Magia (1991), a collection of songs she wrote as a child. Though it didn’t chart, it showcased her potential. Her follow-up, Peligro (1993), also struggled commercially, prompting her to pivot. During this time, she dabbled in acting, starring in the Colombian telenovela El Oasis.

Breakthrough with Pies Descalzos

Her third album, Pies Descalzos (1995), was a game-changer. Hits like “Estoy Aquí” and “Te Necesito” blended rock, pop, and Latin rhythms, earning her fame across Latin America. Selling over 5 million copies, it established her as a regional star at 18.

Crossing Over with Laundry Service

Shakira’s global breakthrough came with Laundry Service (2001). The album’s lead single, “Whenever, Wherever,” with its iconic belly-dancing and catchy melody, topped charts worldwide. Selling over 13 million copies, Laundry Service made her a household name, blending Latin roots with pop-rock for English-speaking audiences. Songs like “Te Aviso, Te Anuncio” showcased her lyrical depth.

Continued Success

Shakira’s discography grew with albums like Fijación Oral, Vol. 1 and Oral Fixation, Vol. 2 (2005), featuring the global smash “Hips Don’t Lie.” Her 2010 World Cup anthem, “Waka Waka (This Time for Africa),” became a cultural phenomenon, amassing billions of streams. Later releases like El Dorado (2017) and singles like “Te Felicito” (2022) kept her relevant, blending reggaeton and electronic influences.

Top Songs and Views

Shakira’s catalog is packed with hits:

“Hips Don’t Lie” (feat. Wyclef Jean): Over 2 billion YouTube views, a defining anthem of the 2000s.
“Waka Waka (This Time for Africa)”: Nearly 4 billion views, a global celebration of unity.
“Whenever, Wherever”: A nostalgic classic with 1.5 billion streams.
“Te Felicito” (with Rauw Alejandro): A modern hit with 1 billion views.
“Chantaje” (with Maluma): A sultry duet with 2.5 billion streams.

Her music videos are visual spectacles, blending cultural motifs with her signature dance moves, contributing to her massive digital footprint.

Concerts and Performances

Shakira’s live shows are legendary for their energy and choreography. From her Tour of the Mongoose (2002-2003) to the El Dorado World Tour (2018), she’s performed in stadiums worldwide. Her 2010 World Cup performance and 2020 Super Bowl Halftime Show with Jennifer Lopez remain iconic. In 2025, she’s rumored to be planning a new tour, with fans buzzing about potential dates shared on social media.

Family: Roots That Ground Her

Family is Shakira’s anchor, and she often credits them for her resilience and values.

Parents and Their Names

Shakira’s mother, Nidia del Carmen Ripoll Torrado, is of Colombian descent, while her father, William Mebarak Chadid, is of Lebanese origin. Nidia, a homemaker, nurtured Shakira’s creativity, while William, a former jeweler and writer, inspired her love for storytelling. Their close-knit bond helped Shakira navigate fame’s pressures.

Siblings: Brothers and Sisters

Shakira is the only child of her parents’ marriage but has eight half-siblings from her father’s previous marriage. Her half-brothers include Alberto, a lawyer; Edward, a doctor; Tonino, her road manager; and Antonio. Her half-sisters are Lucy, a surgeon; Patricia, a teacher; Ana; and Moises. Tonino is especially close, often accompanying her on tour. Shakira’s large family reflects her warm, inclusive nature.

Physical Stats: Height and Weight

Shakira stands at 5 feet 2 inches (157 cm), her petite frame belying her commanding stage presence. Her weight, estimated at 115-125 pounds (52-57 kg) in 2025, reflects her active lifestyle as a dancer and performer. Known for her toned physique, she maintains fitness through dance, yoga, and a balanced diet.

Relationships: Love, Heartbreak, and Partnership

Shakira’s romantic life has been as dynamic as her music, often inspiring her lyrics.

Boyfriends and Their Details

In her early career, Shakira dated Osvaldo Ríos, a Puerto Rican actor, in 1997. The relationship was brief but marked her first high-profile romance. From 2000 to 2010, she was with Antonio de la Rúa, an Argentine lawyer and son of former president Fernando de la Rúa. Their decade-long relationship ended amicably, though legal disputes over assets followed.

Husband: Gerard Piqué

Shakira met Spanish footballer Gerard Piqué in 2010 while filming the “Waka Waka” video. They confirmed their relationship in 2011 and became one of entertainment’s power couples. Despite a 10-year age gap, their chemistry was undeniable, rooted in shared values and humor.

Kids

Shakira and Piqué have two sons:

Milan Piqué Mebarak (born January 2013): An aspiring athlete like his father.
Sasha Piqué Mebarak (born January 2015): Known for his artistic flair.

Relationship Status

In June 2022, Shakira and Piqué announced their separation after 11 years, citing irreconcilable differences. The split was highly publicized, with rumors of infidelity swirling (unconfirmed). They’ve since focused on co-parenting, with Shakira relocating to Miami for her sons’ stability. As of 2025, Shakira is reportedly single, channeling her energy into music and motherhood.

Friends and Their Names

Shakira’s inner circle includes:

Alejandro Sanz: A longtime collaborator and confidant.
Carlos Vives: A fellow Colombian artist with whom she shares cultural pride.
Emilio Estefan: A mentor in her crossover to English markets.

Her friendships are built on trust, often spanning decades.

Net Worth and Assets

Shakira’s net worth in 2025 is estimated at $300 million, amassed through music, tours, endorsements, and investments. Her financial savvy has made her one of the wealthiest Latin artists.

Contracts with Various Brands

Shakira’s marketability has landed her deals with:

Pepsi: A longtime ambassador, appearing in global campaigns.
Oral-B and Crest: Promoting dental products.
Puig: Launching her fragrance line, including “S by Shakira.”
Activia: Advocating for health and wellness.

Her brand partnerships emphasize authenticity, aligning with her values.

House

Shakira owns multiple properties:

A Miami mansion purchased in 2001, valued at $15 million, where she resides with her sons.
A Barcelona estate shared with Piqué during their relationship, now primarily his.
A Bahamas retreat for vacations.

Her homes blend luxury with family-friendly design.

Car

Shakira’s car collection includes:

Mercedes-Benz SLK: A sleek convertible.
BMW X6: A family-oriented SUV.
Tesla Model S: Reflecting her eco-conscious side.

Fashion: A Style Evolution

Shakira’s fashion is eclectic, blending bohemian, rock, and high-glam elements. Early in her career, she rocked leather pants and crop tops, reflecting her rockera roots. Today, she’s a red-carpet darling, favoring designers like Versace and Balmain. Her 2020 Super Bowl outfits—sparkly red ensembles—set trends, while her 2024 Met Gala debut in Carolina Herrera turned heads. In 2025, she’s collaborating on a sustainable fashion line, per industry buzz.

Movies and TV

Shakira’s screen credits include:

El Oasis (1994): Her telenovela debut.
Zootopia (2016): Voicing Gazelle and contributing “Try Everything.”
The Voice (2013-2014): Coaching on the U.S. version, showcasing her mentorship.

She’s hinted at more acting roles, with 2025 rumors pointing to a cameo in a Latin-focused film.

Top Moments

Shakira’s career is studded with milestones:

Grammy Wins: Three Grammys, including Best Latin Pop Album for Fijación Oral, Vol. 1.
Super Bowl 2020: A cultural celebration with J.Lo, viewed by 100 million.
World Cup Anthems: “Waka Waka” and “La La La” united global audiences.
Philanthropy: Her Pies Descalzos Foundation has built schools for Colombian children.

Various Events

Shakira shines at events like:

MTV VMAs: Multiple wins and performances.
Latin Grammys: A frequent honoree.
FIFA World Cup Ceremonies: Performing in 2006, 2010, and 2014.

In 2025, she’s slated to attend the Latin Grammys, with fans hoping for a live performance.

Brand Endorsements

Beyond Pepsi and Puig, Shakira’s endorsements include:

T-Mobile: Promoting connectivity.
Costa Cruises: A tourism campaign.
Fisher-Price: Supporting child development.

Her deals reflect her global appeal and family-oriented values.

Hobbies, Lifestyle, and Passions

Shakira’s hobbies include:

Dance: From belly-dancing to choreography, it’s her creative outlet.
Surfing: A Miami favorite.
Writing: Poetry and songs remain her passion.

Her lifestyle balances glamour with simplicity—she’s as comfortable in couture as barefoot at home. Her passions include education advocacy through her foundation and environmental causes, evident in her eco-friendly investments.

Controversies and Rumors

Shakira’s fame hasn’t been without drama:

Tax Evasion Case: From 2012-2014, Spain accused her of evading €14.5 million in taxes. She settled in 2023, maintaining her innocence but avoiding a trial for her sons’ sake.
Piqué Split Rumors: Speculation about infidelity dominated tabloids, though neither confirmed details.
Cultural Appropriation Claims: Some criticized her use of African and Indian elements, though she cites inspiration, not imitation.

In 2025, she’s focused on moving past controversies, letting her music speak.