Shakira Lights Up Barranquilla: A Carnival-Inspired Concert Unfolds!

Barranquilla witnessed an extraordinary evening as Shakira made her triumphant return to Colombia after nearly two decades away from local stages. The global superstar delivered a captivating performance at the Roberto Melendez Metropolitan Stadium, where fans eagerly gathered to experience a concert brimming with emotion, culture, and heartfelt tributes.

Excitement was palpable throughout Barranquilla as thousands lined up early in the day under sweltering sun to secure tickets for this momentous event. The production of Shakira’s Las Mujeres Ya No Lloran tour lived up to her global stature, featuring stunning visual effects, massive screens, and a dynamic dance troupe that accompanied each song.

The performance began with an electrifying entrance by the artist in a dazzling silver outfit, as fans chanted her name. Visibly emotional at homecoming moment, Shakira expressed her joy: “I am very happy to be here at home. There is nothing like singing among my own people.”

Promoted by Live Nation, the stadium tour kicked off on February 11 in Rio de Janeiro and proceeded to S?o Paulo, Brazil (February 13) and Lima, Peru. After a second concert in Barranquilla on Friday (February 21), Shakira’s tour will make stops in Santiago, Chile (March 2-3); Buenos Aires, Argentina (March 7-8), and several cities across Mexico.

Highlights from the night included memorable moments such as her opening song “Estoy Aqu,” which reached No. 2 on charts. Her rendition of “Suerte” and “Te Felicito” topped Billboards Latin Airplay chart, while the worldwide hit Hips Dont Lie also made an appearance.

Shakira embarked on a journey through her career highlights from the early ’90s to more recent hits. The concert concluded with an emotional performance of “Pies Descalzos,” moving everyone present. One particularly special moment was the ballad “Antologa.” Dedicated to her mother, Nydia Ripollwho attended the event along with Shakiras children, Milan and Sashathe stadium lights up in Colombian colors as part of a heartfelt fan club tribute.

Shakira paid homage to her hometown’s iconic Carnival. She surprised fans by bringing special guest Chelito De Castro, a renowned pianist for late Joe Arroyo. The two performed “Te Olvid,” widely regarded as the carnivals anthem. Wearing traditional garb and playing tambora drums, Shakira celebrated her coastal roots before welcoming this year’s Carnival queen to dance.

The concert reached its climax with “Waka Waka,” where thousands joined in a mass chorus. It was followed by Bzrp Music Sessions, Vol. 53, featuring Argentine producer Bizarrap and resonating deeply with attendees. The songs iconic phrase, “Las mujeres ya no lloran, las mujeres facturan” (Women No Longer Cry, Women Invoice), has since become a cherished national expression.