The Grammy-winning singer opens up about revisiting her classic hits with Ed Sheeran, praises Bad Bunny’s Super Bowl spotlight, and reveals the one artist she’d love to duet with next.
Shakira is feeling nostalgic — and inspired. As she celebrates 30 years since her breakthrough album Pies Descalzos and 20 years since her Oral Fixation era, the Grammy-winning superstar is looking back on her musical journey and ahead to new creative adventures.
In an exclusive chat with Variety, the Colombian icon opened up about revisiting her biggest hits with a fresh twist for a new Spotify project — and why she thinks Bad Bunny’s upcoming Super Bowl Halftime Show couldn’t come at a better time.
Revisiting the Hits with Ed Sheeran and Beéle
Shakira is teaming up with Ed Sheeran and Colombian artist Beéle to reimagine some of her fan-favorite songs. “Ed and I have been talking and trading ideas for years,” she shared. “The timing was never right — until now.”
The duo finally joined forces to breathe new life into “Hips Don’t Lie,” with Sheeran’s signature guitar-driven sound giving the track a modern touch. And Beéle, who hails from Shakira’s hometown of Barranquilla, adds a special hometown vibe. “It felt beautiful to bring in another artist from my city — someone who carries the same spirit and rhythm,” she said warmly.
Looking Back at the Albums That Changed Everything
Reflecting on her 1995 breakout Pies Descalzos, Shakira says it was a turning point that defined her artistry. “It was such a before-and-after moment for me,” she recalled. “There was nothing to lose — and a freedom in that.”
A decade later, her Fijación Oral and Oral Fixation albums — featuring mega-hits like “La Tortura” and “Hips Don’t Lie” — cemented her status as a global trailblazer. “I was exploring, searching, still looking to break barriers,” she said. “It was one of the most creative periods of my life.”
Her Love for Authenticity — and a Dream Duet
Even after decades in the spotlight, Shakira says her fans have always connected with her honesty. “Fans know what’s real and what isn’t,” she explained. “You may as well just be honest, real, and hope it connects.”
She also revealed her dream collaboration: “I’d love to hear Chappell Roan on ‘La Pared.’ She has such an incredible voice and artistry,” Shakira said, showing love for one of today’s boldest new stars.
And when she thinks about her longtime creative partner Luis Fernando Ochoa, the “Whenever, Wherever” singer says their chemistry is timeless. “He’s family — one of my songwriting soulmates,” she said with a smile.
Cheering for Bad Bunny’s Big Moment
When Shakira heard the news that Bad Bunny would headline the 2026 Super Bowl Halftime Show, her reaction was simple: “It’s about time!”
Six years after she shared the Super Bowl stage with him in 2020, Shakira says this moment feels full-circle — not just for Latin artists, but for the global rise of Spanish-language music. “Acceptance of Spanish-language music as part of the mainstream has come so far from when I started,” she shared. “I like to think that every time my music faced resistance before being embraced, it helped pave the way.”
Now, she’s thrilled to see another Latin powerhouse taking center stage. “Bad Bunny represents not only Latin culture but how universal Spanish music has become,” Shakira said proudly. “It’s the perfect moment for him — and I can’t wait to watch it.”
