So I decided to compile my ultimate Shakira playlist today. Woke up thinking about how her songs always hype me up during workouts. Started by pulling up Spotify and searching her artist page. Scrolled through all albums like a maniac – from Laundry Service to that El Dorado joint she dropped a while back.
Phase One: Memory Lane Dive
Sat there humming “Whenever, Wherever” while making coffee. God, that flute intro still gives me chills. Dug through my old iPod Classic (yes, I still have that brick) for pre-2010 gems. Found “Underneath Your Clothes” – totally forgot how raw that love ballad hits. Cranked volume till my neighbor banged on the wall.
The Listen-A-Thon Begins
Played every damn single chronologically. Took notes on my phone like:
“She Wolf” – insane falsetto + literal howling 🔥
“Loca” – that merengue beat makes hips move automatically 🤸
Nearly broke my chair dancing to “Dare (La La La)” during laundry.
The Hard Part: Cutting Down
Ended up with 37 tracks – way too many. Took my dog for walk while listening to narrow down. Rules were simple:
- If I don’t sing along immediately – cut
- If lyrics don’t give goosebumps – cut
- English-Spanish mix gets bonus points
The Final Lineup
After three playlist revisions, here’s what survived:
- Hips Don’t Lie (obviously)
- Waka Waka
- Chantaje
- La Tortura
- Te Felicito
Yeah it’s heavy on collabs but Maluma and Wyclef bring fire chemistry.
Why bother? Last month during my breakup, Shakira’s “Canción No. 5” lyrics saved me from ugly-crying at Starbucks. Her words hit different when life kicks you. Made this playlist hoping y’all find that same healing rage-dance catharsis I did.
