Spotify is rolling out the red carpet for global music icon Shakira with a special, multi-faceted tribute celebrating the enduring legacy of two of her most pivotal albums: the 30th anniversary of her 1995 breakthrough, ‘Pies Descalzos,’ and the 20th anniversary of her 2005 international smash, ‘Oral Fixation’. Available exclusively on the platform starting October 22, 2025, this initiative is part of Spotify’s ongoing ‘Spotify Anniversaries’ series, offering fans an intimate look into artists’ landmark works.
A Double Anniversary Celebration
‘Pies Descalzos,’ released in 1995, marked Shakira’s ascendance as a formidable force in Latin American music, introducing her unique lyrical depth and infectious rhythms to a wide audience. It was an album that not only defined her early sound but also incorporated diverse world music influences, setting a precedent for her genre-bending career. Ten years later, the ‘Oral Fixation’ series (comprising ‘Fijación Oral, Vol. 1’ and ‘Oral Fixation, Vol. 2’) propelled Shakira to global superstardom, solidifying her crossover appeal and delivering chart-topping hits that continue to resonate today. This period saw her confidently fuse Spanish and English lyrics, further cementing her status as a truly international artist.
The Spotify Anniversaries Special
To commemorate these significant milestones, Spotify and Shakira have collaborated on an exclusive live EP and performance video special. This special event features newly reimagined live renditions of beloved tracks from both albums, offering a fresh perspective on her classic catalog. A standout moment is the captivating new version of her global anthem “Hips Don’t Lie (feat. Wyclef Jean),” which includes special guest appearances by British superstar Ed Sheeran and rising Colombian talent Beéle. The rendition is elevated by a sophisticated 14-piece string ensemble, breathing new life into the iconic track. Fans can also experience fresh takes on other fan favorites such as “Pies Descalzos, Sueños Blancos,” “Antología,” “La Pared,” and “Día de Enero”. Beyond the music, Shakira offers personal anecdotes and reflects on the creative process and cultural impact of these foundational albums, providing a deeper insight into their making and significance.
Shakira’s Monumental Impact and Streams
The enduring power of ‘Pies Descalzos’ and ‘Oral Fixation’ is underscored by their massive streaming numbers. Collectively, these albums have amassed over 6.1 billion streams on Spotify, a testament to their lasting appeal. Data reveals that Mexico is the country with the highest number of listens for Shakira’s music on the platform, even surpassing her native Colombia. Furthermore, her music demonstrates remarkable intergenerational reach: more than 50% of ‘Oral Fixation’ streams come from listeners under 30, while ‘Pies Descalzos’ continues to strongly connect with the 30-44 age demographic, illustrating how Shakira’s hits bridge different generations. The surge in streams following her 2020 Super Bowl performance further highlights the timelessness of these albums, with ‘Pies Descalzos’ seeing a 117% increase and ‘Oral Fixation’ an impressive 213% rise in global streams.
Beyond the Music – Shakira’s Legacy
Shakira’s influence extends far beyond her chart-topping songs. As a former EQUAL Global Ambassador for Spotify, she has been a prominent advocate for gender equity in music, a role that highlights her status as the most-streamed female Latin artist in Spotify history. Her three-decade career has not only brought joy and empowerment through her music but has also made notable impacts on global culture and education. Shakira continues to be a powerful voice, celebrating her Colombian and Latin identity and inspiring millions worldwide. The current happenings around this Spotify special suggest her music remains as relevant and trending as ever.
A Legacy Preserved
The Spotify Anniversaries special is more than just a celebration of past achievements; it’s a vibrant affirmation of Shakira’s unparalleled contribution to the global music landscape. By revisiting and reinterpreting her most cherished works, Shakira and Spotify are ensuring that her artistry continues to inspire and captivate new audiences, solidifying her place as one of music’s most iconic and influential figures for generations to come.
