Shakira Makes Historic Comeback To The MTV VMA Stage After 17 Years
Shakira, the renowned “She Wolf,” stole the spotlight and etched her name in history at the 2023 MTV Video Music Awards. This star-studded event witnessed Shakira’s triumphant return to the VMAs stage after an impressive 17-year hiatus, marking a monumental moment in her illustrious career. The Colombian singer-songwriter was not just there to participate; she was there to rewrite the narrative of her legacy.
The highlight of the evening was Shakira’s well-deserved honor as the recipient of the Video Vanguard Award, a prestigious accolade recognizing her outstanding contributions to the music industry. In a jaw-dropping spectacle at the Prudential Center in Newmark, New Jersey, she captivated the audience with a mesmerizing 10-minute bilingual medley. The performance was a magical journey through her decades of hits, featuring iconic tracks such as “She Wolf,” her collaboration with Rauw Alejandro in “Te Felicito,” and the viral sensation “Shakira: Bzrp Music Sessions, Vol. 53” alongside Bizarrap. The stage came alive with her electrifying presence, leaving the audience in awe of her talent and charisma.
The award presentation was a moment of immense pride for Shakira and her fans around the world. The Video Vanguard Award was presented to her by none other than her collaborator and friend, Wyclef Jean, who shared the stage with her during the unforgettable performance of “Hips Don’t Lie” years ago. The bond between the two artists was palpable, underscoring the significance of the moment.
During her heartfelt acceptance speech, Shakira expressed her gratitude to her fans, affectionately referring to them as her “army.” With tears of joy in her eyes, she dedicated the award to her loyal supporters, acknowledging their unwavering dedication throughout her musical journey. She also extended her thanks to her two sons, Milan and Sasha, for believing in her abilities and supporting her endeavors. Additionally, she paid tribute to the remarkable women in the industry who, like her, dared to challenge conventions and wore many hats, breaking barriers and inspiring generations.
Wyclef Jean, praised Shakira’s impact as a “global phenomenon.” He emphasized her ability to transcend musical boundaries, describing her as a force that defies categorization. Shakira’s influence, he noted, reaches far beyond the realms of Latin music, making her a trailblazer in the global music scene.
Shakira’s VMAs journey has been a story of breaking records and redefining norms. This year, she received four nominations, including coveted categories such as artist of the year and best collaboration for her chart-topping track “TQG” with Karol G. Notably, she made history by becoming the first female vocalist ever to debut in the Top 10 of the Billboard Hot 100 with Spanish-language tracks. Her singles, “BZRP Music Sessions Vol. 53” and “TQG” featuring Karol G, garnered international acclaim, firmly establishing her as a powerhouse in the music industry.
In a nostalgic throwback, it’s essential to mention Shakira’s previous groundbreaking moments at the VMAs. In 2005, she left an indelible mark by delivering the first-ever performance entirely in Spanish at the awards ceremony. Her rendition of “La Tortura” featuring Alejandro Sanz was a testament to her artistry and cultural pride. In 2006, she graced the stage once again, performing her chart-topping hit “Hips Don’t Lie” alongside Wyclef Jean, creating an unforgettable VMA memory.
Shakira’s journey from her initial VMA win in 2000 to this triumphant return in 2023 is a testament to her resilience, talent, and enduring appeal. With each performance, she continues to captivate audiences worldwide, leaving an indelible mark on the music industry. As she proudly joins the ranks of esteemed artists like Beyoncé, Nicki Minaj, Madonna, Janet Jackson, Rihanna, Justin Timberlake, and The Beatles, Shakira’s legacy as a global icon and trailblazer is solidified.
