Shakira Speaks Out for Immigrants at Miami Show
Shakira's Miami Concert: A Perfect Blend of Music and Inspiration
In the heart of Miami's Hard Rock Stadium, a note hangs on Shakira's production office door: "Come back later... unless you're on fire." The pink writing hints at the immense stress of organizing the year's biggest stadium tour.
Shakira has performed to over two million fans across 64 concerts throughout North and South America. "It's an incredible reward after working over a year on every detail of the show," she told BBC News.
Prior to the Miami concert, there were no nerves or drama in the backstage area. Dancers stretch, costumers meticulously add crystals to costumes, and technicians double-check guitar strings.
The tour features two washing machines and dryers, which are installed in each venue. Each outfit must be refreshed before every show as Shakira and her dancers are known for their energetic performances.
Around 2:30 PM, the sound check begins. Shortly after 3 PM, Shakira herself arrives with her non-stop security detail and joins the team on stage. Dressed in a silver-emblazoned jeans and a white blouse, she can't help but dance at the venue.
"I came here for Beyoncé's concert and it was impeccable, so you better make it sound like that," she playfully tells the crew.
Shakira is known for her perfectionism. "When she's on, she's on," says Darina Littleton, the chief dancer. "When she arrives, she's ready, her character is in place, she's on."
The concert is a two-and-a-half-hour musical drama filled with bilingual hits, 13 costume changes, and nonstop choreography.
Shakira's Las Mujeres Ya No Lloran tour coincides with the release of her album of the same name, inspired by personal challenges and the end of her 11-year relationship with Gerard Piqué.
Throughout the concert, Shakira addresses the challenges of the pandemic, which sparked her creative resurgence after seven years of musical silence.
Her recent collaborations with Bizarrap and Karol G have been critically acclaimed, with "Te Felicito" and "TQG" becoming major hits.
Shakira is seen as an inspiration to women, and fans express their admiration for her strength and resilience.
The Miami concert holds a special significance for Shakira as it's the city where she moved as a teenager to pursue a music career. She reveals the struggles of learning English and overcoming initial hurdles.
In accepting her Grammy for Best Latin Pop Album earlier this year, Shakira addressed immigration issues, stating, "I dedicate this award to all my immigrant brothers and sisters in this country. You are loved, you are worth it, and I will fight for you always."