Shakira is one of the most well-known pop artists in the world. With smash hits like “Hips Don’t Lie” and “Waka Waka,” her music is loved globally. But there’s more to this Colombian songstress than catchy tunes. Here are 20 fun facts you probably didn’t know about Shakira.
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1. Her Full Name is Shakira Isabel Mebarak Ripoll
While most people know her simply as Shakira, her full name is Shakira Isabel Mebarak Ripoll. Try saying that three times fast! Her first name means “grateful” in Arabic.
2. She’s a Proud Latina
Shakira was born on February 2, 1977 in Barranquilla, Colombia. She often proudly reps her Colombian heritage in her songs, music videos and performances.
3. She Has Lebanese Roots
While Shakira is Colombian, her father is of Lebanese descent. This influence can be seen in her first and middle names.
4. She’s Multilingual
Not only does Shakira create catchy songs in both English and Spanish, she can also sing in Portuguese, French and Italian. Her language skills don’t stop there – she can also speak some Arabic.
5. She Has Sold Over 75 Million Records
With 11 studio albums and a vast catalog of iconic hits, Shakira has sold more than 75 million records worldwide. She’s one of the best selling Latin music artists ever.
6. She’s a Child Prodigy
Shakira got an early start on her entertainment career. At just 4 years old, she wrote her first poem. By age 8, she was already performing and belly dancing at schools and local events.
7. She Loves Football
Shakira is a huge football (soccer) fan. She has performed at three FIFA World Cup tournaments, including the coveted finale in South Africa in 2010.
8. She’s Passionate About Philanthropy
In 1997, Shakira started her own nonprofit organization called the Barefoot Foundation which provides education and nutrition programs to children in Colombia. She also served as a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador.
9. She Has Her Own Star
In 2011, Shakira got her own star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. She also has a star on the Walk of Fame in Barranquilla, Colombia.
10. She’s an Avid Painter
You might not expect it, but Shakira loves painting. Her favorite thing to paint? Fried eggs! She finds the textures and colors soothing and relaxing.
11. She Loves Animals
At her home in Barcelona, Shakira has three lovely rescue dogs named Chan, Coquito and Gordita. She also founded a charity called Pies Descalzos which helped provide food, medicine and toys for stray animals.
12. She’s Highly Intelligent
In addition to her many talents, Shakira has an IQ of 140. That puts her in the genius category! Her intelligence manifests itself in her poetic songwriting.
13. She’s a World Record Holder
In 2014, Shakira’s hit song “La La La” with Carlinhos Brown set a Guinness World Record for best-selling single by a female artist. It was the theme song for the World Cup tournament.
14. She Loves Water Sports
When she’s not singing and dancing, you might find Shakira surfing or wakeboarding. She also loves to swim and is quite skilled at water polo.
15. She’s Close With Her Family
Shakira comes from a tight-knit family. She has eight older half siblings from her father’s previous marriage. Family is very important to her, especially her parents.
16. She Doesn’t Drink or Smoke
Unlike many celebrities, Shakira chooses not to drink alcohol or smoke cigarettes. She prefers natural highs from laughing, dancing and overall positivity.
17. She’s an Accomplished Belly Dancer
As a child, Shakira learned Middle Eastern belly dancing techniques. She often fuses these sensual moves with her high energy Latin dance style.
18. She’s Received Major Accolades
Shakira’s mantle is lined with awards. She’s won 3 Grammy awards, 13 Latin Grammys, 7 Billboard Music Awards and even a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.
19. She’s Big Into Fashion
Shakira has her own distinct fashion sense mixing bohemian and rocker vibes. She even launched her own perfume called “S by Shakira” in 2010.
20. She’s a Total Nature Lover
Though she lives in Miami now, Shakira will always be a small town Colombian girl at heart. She loves connecting with nature by tending her vegetable garden, smelling fragrant flowers, walking on the beach and looking at trees.
So there you have it – 20 fun facts about the fabulous Shakira! From her Lebanese heritage to her love of philanthropy and family, there are so many unexpected tidbits that make her such a fascinating artist. It’s easy to see how she captivates fans around the world with her talents, beauty and infectious spirit. Whether she’s dancing barefoot or painting still life, Shakira certainly marches to the beat of her own drum!
