Shakira reflects on writing songs after the devastating split with Piqué in 2022: ‘It was just pure catharsis’

Shakira, the ‘Queen of Latin Pop,’ has amassed over millions of fans all over the world with her hit songs that continue to have cultural significance – and she is just getting started. The 49-year-old has been in the music industry for 30 years and has shone at the top of the streaming charts throughout her career, whether the songs were about heartbreak or anthems. Looking back at the time when she sang about her devastating split, the singer feels proud of her resilience.Here’s a closer look at Shakira’s view about her music and heartbreak ahead of her performance at the FIFA World Cup Final.Shakira went through a major heartbreak after her split with footballer Piqué, and released the song where she shared details of his alleged affair, causing the end of a 12-year relationship. “It was just pure catharsis. I really needed to write about what I was going through and not have any censor,” she said in an interview with People Magazine. Moreover, she expressed that the heartbreak took her through the times that tested her. “Through those challenging moments, I discovered how resilient we all are,” the ‘Dai Dai’ singer said, referring to her strength.Despite the lyrics being shattering, the streams went through the roof and topped the charts. “Sometimes we just need someone to be the voice of others because the human experience thrives on identification,” she expressed on how mutual feeling connected her and her fans. However, Shakira feels that she has just begun in this industry, “ I’ve done this professionally 30 years already,” she said to the outlet, and added, “and it feels to me like I’m just starting.”On June 19, 2026, Shakira will be taking over the stage like a storm, along with Madonna and BTS.