Shakira's rock roots revealed. From early rock anthems to genre-blending hits, discover why she's a Rock & Roll Hall of Fame nominee.
- April 7, 2026
AceShowbiz - Shakira is among the 17 nominees for the upcoming Rock & Roll Hall of Fame induction ceremony, spotlighting her strong connection to rock music throughout her career.
Before achieving worldwide fame with reggaetón-infused hits like "Hips Don't Lie" alongside Wyclef Jean and "La Tortura" with Alejandro Sanz, Shakira captivated audiences with her distinct rocker image, characterized by her wavy black hair and edgy attitude.
Her early repertoire prominently featured rock elements, ranging from the emotional ballad "Antología" to the intense "Pies Descalzos, Sueños Blancos." She has also courageously blended rock with other genres, incorporating mariachi sounds on "Ciega, Sordomuda" and tango rhythms in "Objection (Tango)."
Music videos such as "Que Me Quedes Tú" and "Don't Bother" showcase Shakira playing instruments like the drums and electric guitar, underlining her rock musician persona. Notably, the tracks "Objection," "Don't Bother," and "Empire" have all reached the Billboard Hot 100 chart, marking her success within rock-influenced music.
Shakira qualifies for the Rock Hall nomination as it has been over 25 years since her initial commercial release, debuting in 1991 with her album Magia. This year, she is nominated alongside other notable artists such as P!NK, Lauryn Hill, Wu-Tang Clan, Phil Collins, Mariah Carey, Oasis, and Sade.
The final inductees will be chosen by a panel exceeding 1,200 artists, historians, and music industry experts, combined with fan voting input. The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame's Class of 2026 will be announced in April, with the induction ceremony scheduled for the fall.
Below is a curated selection of 20 songs by Shakira that highlight her rock music influence, celebrating the genre's role in shaping her distinct sound and artistic identity.