In a significant celebration of her enduring musical legacy, global superstar Shakira is honoring the 30th anniversary of her breakthrough album “Pies Descalzos” and the 20th anniversary of her “Oral Fixation” series (comprising “Fijación Oral, Vol. 1” and “Oral Fixation Vol. 2”) with an exclusive live EP and performance video special, available now on Spotify. This special release is part of Spotify’s “Spotify Anniversaries” series, which invites artists to reflect on their landmark albums, share untold stories, and offer new interpretations of their most beloved tracks.
A Look Back at Landmark Albums
Released in 1995, “Pies Descalzos” (Bare Feet) marked a pivotal moment in Shakira’s career. The album, which fused Latin pop with elements of pop rock and alternative rock, not only revived her career after initial struggles but also established her as a major force in Latin America. Hits like “Estoy Aquí,” “¿Dónde Estás Corazón?,” and “Antología” showcased her unique lyrical style and infectious rhythms, paving the way for Latin artists on the international stage. Even today, “Pies Descalzos” is revered for its raw emotion and poetic storytelling, influencing subsequent generations of musicians.
A decade later, Shakira cemented her global superstardom with the “Oral Fixation” project. “Fijación Oral, Vol. 1” (2005), her fifth Spanish-language album, earned her critical acclaim and multiple awards, including a Grammy for Best Latin Rock/Alternative Album, featuring chart-toppers like “La Tortura” with Alejandro Sanz. This was swiftly followed by “Oral Fixation Vol. 2” (2005), her first English-language album in years, which became a massive global success, propelled by the iconic international hit “Hips Don’t Lie” featuring Wyclef Jean. Together, these albums demonstrated Shakira’s versatility and her ability to transcend linguistic and cultural barriers in the music world.
Spotify’s Tribute: “Spotify Anniversary | Oral Fixation (20th) and Pies Descalzos (30th) LIVE”
To commemorate these significant anniversaries, Shakira has partnered with Spotify to release a special five-track EP and accompanying video performance. The “Spotify Anniversaries” series aims to provide fans with intimate insights into the creation of these seminal works, alongside fresh renditions of the music. This new installment features Shakira revisiting some of her most cherished songs with a modern, live feel. Among the reimagined tracks are “Pies Descalzos, Sueños Blancos,” “Antología,” “La Pared,” and “Día de Enero”.
A standout feature of this special is the brand-new version of “Hips Don’t Lie (Spotify Anniversary Version)”. For this iconic track, Shakira joined forces with British singer-songwriter Ed Sheeran and fellow Colombian artist Beéle. Their collaboration, enhanced by a 14-piece string ensemble, brings a new emotional depth and a blend of international and Caribbean flavors to the global hit. The special also offers behind-the-scenes glimpses into the creative process, allowing fans to connect with the music on a deeper level.
A Legacy That Transcends Generations
The enduring impact of “Pies Descalzos” and “Oral Fixation” is evident in their streaming numbers. Combined, these albums have garnered over 6.1 billion global streams on Spotify. The music continues to resonate across different age groups, with over 50% of “Oral Fixation” streams coming from listeners under 30, while “Pies Descalzos” significantly connects with the 30-44 demographic. This data highlights Shakira’s unique ability to bridge generational divides, making her music a timeless soundtrack for fans worldwide.
The release of this Spotify exclusive EP and video special serves as a powerful tribute to Shakira’s remarkable journey and the profound influence of “Pies Descalzos” and “Oral Fixation.” It’s a celebration of music that has not only defined eras but continues to inspire and connect with new audiences, solidifying her status as one of the most influential artists in global music news. The featured artist’s work continues to top trending charts, proving the lasting appeal of her discography.
