Colombian singer Shakira said the 2010 FIFA World Cup anthem "Waka Waka (This Time for Africa)" changed her life [1, 2].
The reflections offer a rare glimpse into the personal evolution of a global superstar and her emotional connection to African culture. By linking a professional milestone to her identity as a parent, Shakira highlights the intersection of celebrity and personal growth.
Shakira discussed the impact of the anthem in interviews published online, noting that the experience made her feel like a mother [1, 2]. She said the global exposure and her connection with African culture through the song provided her with a sense of personal development [1, 3].
"Waka Waka changed my life; it made me feel like a mother," Shakira said [1].
Beyond the recording studio, the singer engaged directly with the communities that inspired the track. She performed the song's signature dance at a school in Soweto, South Africa, ahead of the tournament's opening [3]. During that visit, she connected with local students to share the music's energy.
"I love dancing Waka Waka with you kids, it feels like family," Shakira said [3].
The song served as the official anthem for the 2010 tournament, which was the first FIFA World Cup hosted on the African continent. The track became a global phenomenon, blending elements of Cameroonian music with pop production. For Shakira, the project was more than a commercial success—it was a transformative emotional journey.
“"Waka Waka changed my life; it made me feel like a mother."”
This reflection underscores the cultural legacy of 'Waka Waka' as more than a sports anthem. By attributing her sense of motherhood and personal growth to the project, Shakira emphasizes the emotional reciprocity that can occur when Western artists engage with African cultures on a global stage.
