Shakira Isabel Mebarak Ripoll
- Born:
- February 2, 1977, Barranquilla, Colombia
- Nationality:
- Colombian
- Profession(s):
- Singer, Songwriter, Dancer, Actress, Record Producer, Businesswoman, Philanthropist
Early Life and Education
- Shakira demonstrated musical talent from a young age, writing her first poem at age four.
- She began singing professionally in her early teens.
- Attended La Ensenada school in Barranquilla.
- She learned English autodidactically and speaks several languages.
Career and Major Achievements
- Signed with Sony Music Colombia at age 13.
- Rose to prominence in Latin America in the early 1990s.
- Achieved international success with her 2001 album, Laundry Service.
- Known for her eclectic musical style, incorporating Latin, Arabic, rock, and pop influences.
- Has sold over 95 million records worldwide, making her one of the best-selling music artists of all time.
- Won numerous awards, including multiple Grammy Awards, Latin Grammy Awards, and Billboard Music Awards.
- Starred in and produced musical performances for major international events like FIFA World Cup.
Notable Works
Discography
| Year | Title | Details |
|---|---|---|
| 1991 | Magia | Debut studio album |
| 1993 | Peligro | Second studio album |
| 1995 | Pies Descalzos | Breakthrough Latin American album |
| 1998 | Dónde Están los Ladrones? | Critically acclaimed album |
| 2001 | Laundry Service | English-language debut album |
| 2005 | Fijación Oral, Vol. 1 | Spanish-language album |
| 2005 | Oral Fixation, Vol. 2 | English-language album |
| 2009 | She Wolf | Studio album |
| 2010 | Sale el Sol | Studio album |
| 2014 | Shakira | Studio album |
| 2017 | El Dorado | Studio album |
Philanthropy
- Founded the Pies Descalzos Foundation, providing education and nutrition to underprivileged children in Colombia.
- Served as a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador.
Legacy and Impact
Shakira Isabel Mebarak Ripoll, known professionally as Shakira, has had a profound impact on the music industry and global philanthropy. This biography on Shakira Mebarak underscores her unique blend of musical styles, her successful crossover into the English-language market, and her dedication to social causes, solidifying her place as a cultural icon.