As I watch the Super Bowl Halftime Show, a sense of nostalgia washes over me and brings back memories of my childhood in Colombia. The performer on stage played a crucial role in shaping my early years, and I can’t help but feel grateful for that.
My Colombian friend was hesitant when I mentioned wanting to write about Shakira. He admitted that he hadn’t listened to her music since she moved away from rock, but that was exactly what I wanted to explore – the lesser-known side of Shakira. While many Americans are familiar with her as a curvy pop artist with a powerful voice, there’s more to her than meets the eye. If you delve into her ’90s albums on YouTube, you’ll discover a completely different Shakira – a disheveled poet producing alt-rock music far removed from the reggaeton hits that made her famous. This was the Shakira of my childhood in Bogota, where political turmoil and violence were rampant. Despite the chaos, Shakira’s music brought hope and unity to a nation in need. Her soft-spoken Barranquilla accent and rough exterior belied a soulful intelligence that captured the hearts of Colombians and possibly all of Latin America. She was a rockstar who spoke to the people, and that’s what made her so extraordinary.
In the 90s, Shakira was a major source of inspiration and pride in Colombian culture, despite the hazardous environment caused by guerrilla warfare. Her music was enjoyed by people of all ages, from school bus rides to upscale fusion cuisine restaurants, and became a significant part of daily life. Even her rejection from the school choir served as a motivation for many, making her a symbol of determination and perseverance. Shakira’s influence on Colombian pride was so great that she was even nominated for Person of the Year by a national newspaper. Unlike politicians or entrepreneurs, she provided hope and pride in our heritage and origins.
Shakira gained fame in the 1990s as a role model for Generation X, primarily due to her intelligent lyrics and musical talent. Her songs were a unique combination of classical architecture, Renaissance art, and Roman emperors, with themes centered around love and social commentary. Shakira’s music was not only popular but also served as a source of inspiration for many young people who found solace in her lyrics. For instance, her song “Si te vas” emphasized the importance of clear-sightedness and how new beginnings can work wonders. Shakira’s talent for turning life’s metaphors into artistic expressions began early on when she wrote her first song, “Tus Gafas Oscuras,” at the age of eight in 1991. Her music had a way of consoling people, connecting with them emotionally, and making them forget their worries. Her music was like a safe haven, and her lyrics reflected the thoughts and feelings of her peers.
Shakira’s music holds a special place in my heart, as it reminds me of fond memories. I remember cruising around in my dad’s old BMW, listening to her songs with my family. Even during a traumatic time when my grandmother was kidnapped, Shakira’s music brought me comfort and solace. Her music has been a constant companion throughout my life, evoking a sense of nostalgia that I can’t shake off.
Shakira is an iconic figure in Colombian music, and her contribution cannot be overstated. She has paved the way for future artists like J Balvin and Maluma, who have taken inspiration from her work. However, as her fame grew globally, her music started catering to a wider audience, deviating from her initial style that won over Colombian fans.
Nevertheless, Shakira remains a significant figure in the music industry and Colombian culture. Her impact is undeniable, and she will always be remembered as one of the most influential Latin American artists of all time.
Fans’ sentiments for the old Shakira are visible in the YouTube comments, but a Spanish translator is necessary to fully understand their nostalgia. However, artists evolve with time, as demonstrated by Taylor Swift’s shift from country to pop. Shakira has also diversified her music, drawing inspiration from genres like tango, reggaeton, and trap, while still retaining her unparalleled ability to evoke emotions. While her earlier songs are close to the hearts of many, including my family that sings along on road trips, her collaborations in reggaeton, vallenato, and bachata are equally important in representing Colombian culture. The pride, knowledge, and rich history of Colombia are reflected in Shakira’s music. Despite Gabriel Garcia Marquez questioning Shakira’s connection to her roots, I can’t help but fondly remember the old Shakira with her red braids and harmonica, defining my childhood memories of home. Shakira’s past and Colombia’s roots are interconnected, and her performance at the 54th Super Bowl will showcase her artistic growth while representing her homeland.
