Colombian music icon Shakira has been bestowed with a heartwarming honor in her hometown, as a captivating bronze statue was unveiled in recognition of her contributions to the global music scene. Crafted by artist Yino Márques, the statue immortalizes Shakira in her iconic “Hips Don’t Lie” pose, symbolizing her distinctive and influential career.
In a heartfelt display of gratitude, Shakira took to Instagram to share intimate moments from the statue’s unveiling ceremony, which took place in the presence of her parents, William Mebarak Chadid and Nidia Ripoll Torrado. The shared photo captures the pride of her parents standing beside the striking landmark, creating a touching family memory.
Expressing her joy, Shakira wrote, “It makes me happy to share this with my parents and especially with my mother on her birthday.” The carousel of images included a solo shot of the artist’s grand figure, alongside her brothers and parents posing with the mayor of Barranquilla and a dedication plaque that accompanied the statue.
The dedication plaque eloquently encapsulates Shakira’s multifaceted talents, describing her as having “a heart that composes, hips that do not lie, an unmatched talent, a voice that moves masses, and bare feet that march for the good of childhood and humanity.” Overwhelmed by the gesture, Shakira added, “Oh and this dedication, this is too much for my little heart.”
This recognition follows Shakira’s historic win at the MTV Video Music Awards (VMAs) in September, where she was honored with the Michael Jackson Video Vanguard Award. Her groundbreaking achievement made her the first South American artist to receive this prestigious accolade at the VMAs, solidifying her global impact.
The unveiling of the bronze statue in her hometown stands as a poignant testament to Shakira’s enduring legacy and the unwavering support she continues to receive from her community and admirers worldwide. As her music resonates globally, this tribute in her hometown becomes a symbol of appreciation for the artist’s indelible mark on the world of music and beyond.
