Shakira is one of 17 nominees for this year’s Rock & Roll Hall of Fame induction ceremony — and if you’ve been a fan since day one, you’d know she’s a roquera above all.
Before her global success that powered on reggaetón-tinged bangers such as “Hips Don’t Lie” with Wyclef Jean and “La Tortura” with Alejandro Sanz, the Colombian star captivated hearts with her wavy, black hair and rocker attitude.
Her earlier songs, for the most part, reflected her rockstar aura from the heartfelt ballad “Antología” to the angsty “Pies Descalzos, Sueños Blancos,” and beyond. She’s also become one to fearlessly experiment with the genre, fusing it with mariachi on “Ciega, Sordomuda” and tango on “Objection (Tango).”
Meanwhile, in the music videos for “Que Me Quedes Tú” and “Don’t Bother,” Shak is seen playing the drums and electric guitar, respectively. Furthermore, “Objection,” “Don’t Bother,” and “Empire” are three of her rock songs that entered the all-genre Billboard Hot 100 chart.
Shakira is eligible for the Rock Hall nomination because it’s been more than 25 years since the release of her first commercial recording—she made her debut in 1991 with Magia. The Colombian artist is nominated alongside P!NK, Lauryn Hill, Wu-Tang Clan, Phil Collins, Mariah Carey, Oasis, and Sade, to name a few.
This year’s inductees will be selected by a panel of more than 1,200 artists, historians and music industry professionals, as well as a fan vote contribution. The Rock Hall’s Class of 2026 will be revealed in April with the induction ceremony taking place in the fall.
Below, listen to 20 Shakira songs that are rock music inspired:
