Growing up in Puerto Rico, I saw Shakira as a cool older sister figure I never had. Even before she became a global superstar with songs like “Whenever, Wherever” and “Waka Waka,” she had a unique rebellious style with her black hair and bold highlights. My family always played her albums “Pies Descalzos” and “Dónde Están Los Ladrones” in the car and we couldn’t get enough of her catchy music.
I am constantly drawn to the lyrics of Shakira’s albums “Pies Descalzos” and “Donde Estan Los Ladrones”. In “Pies Descalzos”, she cleverly references Adam and Eve while also touching on themes of marriage, pantyhose, and quinceañeras. On the other hand, “Donde Estan Los Ladrones” is a catchy pop-rock ballad that delves into politics with a unique sound. Even though these albums were released before my time, I find myself resonating with them as a young woman navigating a society that often stifles authentic expression. What really stands out to me is Shakira’s willingness to be vulnerable about her imperfections and her heartwarming expressions of love. Her openness about crying once a month resonates with me, allowing me to connect with my own emotional journey. To this day, these songs continue to help me process a range of emotions from heartbreak to nostalgia, and deepen my understanding of love.
Shakira’s fusion of Colombian and Lebanese roots laid the groundwork for female rock musicians in the Latino music scene. Two decades ago, she broke barriers in a male-dominated industry with her heartfelt and personal songs, offering a roadmap for challenging machismo in various aspects of life. To me, Shakira’s music has been a source of solace in times of heartache and a source of strength, like a supportive older sibling helping me navigate life’s obstacles. While hits like “Hips Don’t Lie” and collaborations with Beyonce and Rihanna are memorable, I have a soft spot for the 90s era of Shakira. Her youthful energy, emotive lyrics, and powerhouse vocals continue to connect with fans of all ages and backgrounds. As a new wave of artists like Olivia Rodrigo and Willow emerges, it’s clear that the timeless appeal of 90s Shakira transcends time, relationships, and cultural boundaries.
On Friday, the skilled 44-year-old singer released her newest track “Don’t Wait Up.” As a fan, I was excited to hear what she had in store, especially after seeing her rocking her signature red hair on Instagram. Although I was expecting a rock vibe similar to her earlier music, the song turned out to be a catchy dance anthem, ideal for those balmy summer evenings. It’s a fun tune that celebrates independence and freedom, promoting the idea of going out and enjoying yourself without being tied down to anyone else.
It’s unfair to compare Shakira’s latest single with her previous work. She has always been evolving musically, distinguishing herself in an industry that often pigeonholes Latina artists into one genre. From rock to mainstream pop, she has explored a range of sounds, some as effortless as her dance skills, and others more introspective and moody. “Don’t Wait Up” is a quintessential pop track, and if this is a glimpse of what her upcoming album will sound like, I am eagerly anticipating the new direction. However, I still hold a special place in my heart for ’90s Shakira. Her early albums continue to resonate with me, offering guidance and reigniting the spark of falling in love all over again. The connection I feel when I understand the essence of her songs will always be cherished, a timeless reminder of the magic of ’90s Shakira.
