The statue, located on a newly constructed promenade along the Magdalena River, was unveiled during a small ceremony attended by Shakira’s parents and the mayor, Jaime Pumarejo. A plaque beneath the statue commemorates the significance of February 2, 1977, as the day the world witnessed the birth of a talented artist with a heart for composing, hips that captivate audiences, a voice that moves masses, and a dedication to helping children and humanity.
This isn’t the first Shakira statue in Barranquilla. Back in 2006, the town unveiled another monument depicting the pop star in her early days, playing an acoustic guitar and dressed in jeans and boots. That statue stands near the entrance of the local soccer stadium.
Expressing gratitude, Shakira took to social media platform X (formerly known as Twitter) to thank sculptor Yino Marquez and his students at Barranquilla’s public art academy for their work on the latest statue. She described it as a testament to the immense talent of Barranquilla’s citizens.
Shakira, who recently relocated to Miami with her two children, settled a tax-fraud case in Spain earlier this year with a payment of $7.5 million. She also made headlines in January for releasing a rap song about her former partner, which broke records on YouTube. In addition, the Colombian pop star received three Latin Grammy awards earlier this year.The statue stands as a proud symbol of Shakira’s global success and her deep roots in her hometown. Barranquilla celebrates its most famous musical export, showcasing the pride of a community that has nurtured and supported her throughout her career.
(Inputs from AP and Reuters)
