With few days to the 2022 FIFA World Cup, Colombian singer Shakira confirmed that she won’t be part of the opening ceremony performance after reportedly receiving criticism from fans online.
Although singing at the World Cup opening ceremony seems like a dream for any artist and Shakira has done it several times, the Pop star turned down the offer this time around.
While the World Cup is one of the most anticipated sporting events, this time the tournament is surrounded by controversy over the treatment of migrant workers in the host nation, as well as the LGBTQ community and, even, women’s rights.
It was confirmed that artists such as BTS, Dua Lipa and Shakira would perform at Qatar.
According to reports, Shakira changed her mind a few days before the start of the World Cup, which will begin on Sunday November 20.
It should be noted that Shakira was the voice of the 2010 edition in South Africa, alongside local group Freshlyground, for the official theme Waka Waka (This Time for Africa).
She again performed four years later in Brazil. But her team recently told Spanish news outlets that she would no longer be performing in Qatar, without giving a specific reason.
The artists who have agreed to perform in Qatar are J Balvin, Robbie Williams, Jason Derulo, Clean Bandit, Sean Paul, Nora Fatehi, Black Eyed Peas, Jungkook of BTS, Nicki Minaj, Maluma and Myriam Fares.
Who is Shakira?
Shakira Isabel Mebarak Ripoll is a Colombian singer.
Born and raised in Barranquilla, she has been referred to as the “Queen of Latin Music” and is noted for her musical versatility.
She made her recording debut with Sony Music Colombia at the age of 13.
Following the commercial failure of her first two albums, Magia (1991) and Peligro (1993), she rose to prominence in Hispanic countries with her next albums, Pies Descalzos (1995) and Dónde Están los Ladrones? (1998).
She entered the English-language market with her fifth album, Laundry Service (2001), which sold over 13 million copies worldwide.
Buoyed by the international success of her singles “Whenever, Wherever” and “Underneath Your Clothes”, the album propelled her reputation as a leading crossover artist.
Broadcast Music, Inc., described Shakira as a “pioneer” who extended the global reach of Latino singers.
ALSO SEE;
Ronald Alimpa pleads for forgiveness from his mother
