Shakira

Musician

Colombian singer-songwriter Shakira (Shakira Isabel Mebarak Ripoll) rose to international fame blending Latin, pop, rock and world influences. She began recording as a teenager and became known for energetic live shows, global hits and bilingual releases.

Birth name: Shakira Isabel Mebarak Ripoll. Born in Barranquilla, Colombia. Of Lebanese paternal ancestry. Began recording in adolescence (first album 1991). Founder/supporter of the Pies Descalzos Foundation. Sings in Spanish and English and mixes Latin and Arabic influences in her music.

DeBaser reviews present a mixed but generally favorable view of Shakira: praised for live performances, versatility and Latin/Arabic influences; criticized when leaning toward overtly commercial or experimental productions. Standout albums noted include Donde Están Los Ladrones?, Pies Descalzos and Laundry Service. Concert reviews highlight strong stagecraft and audience connection.

For:Fans of Latin pop and world-pop; readers interested in album and concert criticism.

Shakira is something that should be studied not so much for her artistic and musical value (naturally beyond question in this context) but for her anthropological and sociological significance as a "massified niche phenomenon."
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She is not a 'pop princess' trying to coyly grab all the possible stages: she is an artist who manages to do so with relentless and unsettling naturalness.
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