Celebrating Three Decades: Shakira’s Deep Dive into Her Classics and the Future of Pop
In a special feature produced by Spotify, global superstar Shakira offered a rare and insightful reflection on her three-decade-long career, coinciding with the 30th anniversary of her seminal 1995 album, Pies Descalzos. The conversation, which revisited the origins of her signature sound, also saw the Colombian artist weigh in on the current state of pop music, offering strong endorsements for two of the industry’s most talked-about figures: Bad Bunny and Chappell Roan.
This retrospective look provides fans and industry observers alike with a deeper understanding of the artistic evolution that transformed Shakira from a regional sensation into a worldwide icon, capable of bridging linguistic and cultural divides.
The Enduring Legacy of Pies Descalzos
Released in October 1995, Pies Descalzos (Barefoot) marked a pivotal moment in Shakira’s trajectory. The album, which blended acoustic rock, pop, and Latin folk influences, showcased her talents not just as a vocalist, but as a profound songwriter. During the Spotify special, Shakira revisited the creative process behind tracks that became anthems for a generation, including “Estoy Aquí” and “Antología.”
She discussed the challenges and triumphs of that era, emphasizing how the album established her commitment to authenticity and lyrical depth—qualities that have defined her work ever since.
“Pies Descalzos was the moment I truly found my voice, not just as a singer, but as a storyteller,” Shakira noted. “It was a daring introduction, moving away from pure pop and embracing the rock and poetic elements that felt most true to me.”
This anniversary serves as a reminder of the album’s role in shaping the landscape of Latin pop, paving the way for future artists who sought to merge mainstream appeal with complex musical structures.
Endorsing the Next Generation of Global Stars
Shakira’s conversation naturally shifted to the contemporary music scene, where she offered high praise and support for artists currently dominating the charts and cultural conversations.
The Super Bowl Question: Bad Bunny’s Time to Shine
Having co-headlined the 2020 Super Bowl Halftime Show alongside Jennifer Lopez, Shakira holds a unique perspective on the immense pressure and cultural significance of the event. When asked about the possibility of Puerto Rican superstar Bad Bunny taking the coveted stage, Shakira was unequivocally supportive.
She highlighted Bad Bunny’s unparalleled global reach and his ability to represent Latin culture on the world’s biggest platforms. Her endorsement underscores the continued mainstreaming of Spanish-language music and the recognition of Latin artists as essential global headliners.
Key reasons for Shakira’s support of Bad Bunny:
- Global Dominance: Recognition of his status as one of the world’s most streamed and influential artists.
- Cultural Representation: His powerful ability to showcase Latin American identity and music to a massive international audience.
- Industry Influence: Acknowledging that his performance would cement the shift in the global music hierarchy.
Praising Pop’s New Icon: Chappell Roan
In a nod to the rising stars challenging conventional pop norms, Shakira revealed her admiration for Chappell Roan. Roan, known for her theatrical, high-concept pop and strong LGBTQ+ advocacy, has become a breakout sensation in 2024 and 2025.
Shakira praised Roan’s unique style and commitment to artistic authenticity, drawing a parallel between Roan’s current impact and the necessity of breaking molds in the music industry. This cross-generational appreciation from an established icon like Shakira provides a significant boost to Roan’s credibility and highlights the importance of originality in modern pop.
Shakira’s comments suggest an appreciation for artists who prioritize:
- Authenticity: Staying true to a unique artistic vision, regardless of commercial pressure.
- Theatricality: Using performance and visual identity to enhance the musical experience.
- Cultural Impact: Creating music that resonates deeply with specific communities and drives broader conversations.
Key Takeaways from the Spotify Special
Shakira’s interview provided valuable insight into her past, present, and future artistic outlook. The main points of discussion included:
- 30th Anniversary: Celebrating the enduring influence of the 1995 album Pies Descalzos.
- Artistic Evolution: Reflecting on the transition from early pop to her signature rock-infused style.
- Bad Bunny Support: Strongly endorsing the Latin superstar for a future Super Bowl Halftime Show.
- Chappell Roan Admiration: Praising the rising star for her authenticity and unique contribution to the pop landscape.
- Maintaining Relevance: Discussing the importance of continuous reinvention and staying connected to the contemporary music scene.
Conclusion: Bridging Generations of Pop
Shakira’s ability to reflect on her foundational work while actively engaging with the current musical climate demonstrates her enduring relevance. By celebrating the 30th anniversary of Pies Descalzos, she honors her roots, and by championing artists like Bad Bunny and Chappell Roan, she positions herself as a vital bridge between the established titans of global pop and the next wave of innovators. Her commentary confirms that genuine artistic expression, whether 30 years ago or today, remains the key to lasting success in the music industry.
Original author: Thania Garcia
Originally published: October 21, 2025
Editorial note: Our team reviewed and enhanced this coverage with AI-assisted tools and human editing to add helpful context while preserving verified facts and quotations from the original source.
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