New York City witnessed a pop phenomenon on Tuesday night as Shakira transformed the heart of Manhattan into a dance floor for a surprise free concert.
The Colombian superstar, celebrating the release of her highly anticipated new album, Las Mujeres Ya No Lloran (Women No Longer Cry) — her first album in seven years — took over Times Square with an electrifying performance that drew an estimated 40,000 fans.
Just hours before the show, Shakira sent social media into a frenzy with an announcement of the pop-up show on Instagram. The energy was palpable as fans, tourists, and New Yorkers alike converged in Times Square, eager to catch a glimpse of the global icon.
The normally bustling intersection buzzed with anticipation, surrounding the vibrant TSX stage set-up featuring a massive central platform. A giant digital billboard displayed a heart-pounding countdown before the show began, further amplifying the excitement.
Shakira, a vision in black adorned with silver embellishments, emerged to a thunderous roar and launched into her iconic hit “Hips Don’t Lie,” igniting a wave of cheers that echoed through the concrete canyons. Accompanied by a tight band and a troupe of energetic dancers, she seamlessly transitioned into a powerful medley of tracks from her new album.
Las Mujeres Ya No Lloran, released just days prior, resonated with the crowd. Songs like “Te Felicito” (“I Congratulate You”) and “Punteria” showcased a Shakira empowered and embracing her emotions. The Latin rhythms and pulsating beats were a call to action, perfectly aligning with the album’s message of female resilience. The closing number, “Bzrp Music Sessions, Vol. 53,” a fierce collaboration with Argentine producer Bizarrap, left the crowd energized and empowered.
Shakira’s Times Square takeover was a testament to her star power and the unifying force of music. The free concert served as a joyous celebration of her artistic return and a powerful message of female strength, leaving a lasting impression on the city and her millions of fans worldwide.
