During the recent Billboard Latin Music Week 2023, Shakira gave a rare live interview, where she discussed her creative process, making history as one of the most successful Billboard chart-toppers, and her future plans. The Colombian superstar spoke with Billboard’s chief content officer Leila Cobo at the Faena Forum on Wednesday (Oct. 4), where they had an intimate discussion. In the interview, Shakira talked about working with Keityn and Edgar Barrera on “El Jefe” and how they wanted to portray the reality of many. She also mentioned that the song has a little bit of ska sensibility and a touch of the regional Mexican genre.
Regarding inspiration, the musician expresses that he is currently very inspired and in a positive mood. He acknowledges that there have been times in the past when he has struggled with motivation, but currently, he is in a “honeymoon phase” with his music career and enjoys what he does. As for the process of composing music, he describes it as a form of catharsis and therapy. He tends to write the most when he is going through difficult times because it helps him to overcome and learn from those challenges. The musician also emphasizes the importance of his relationship with his fans, who have supported him throughout his career. He feels their presence and support, which motivates and inspires him as an artist.
Regarding the creative process, Shakira believes that it varies and there is no formula. Sometimes she writes alone, while other times she prefers to collaborate with friends. She writes down her ideas and melodies on planes or even in the shower. Shakira trusts her sons’ artistic instincts and listens to their feedback when working on new music. She moved to Miami from Barcelona to be closer to colleagues, producers, and friends in the music industry. Her self-confidence has grown over time, and she has learned to prioritize what matters most to her. Shakira’s American breakthrough was with the song “Whenever, Wherever,” despite her limited English at the time. She believes that people, not executives, decide which artists and languages are popular and relevant. Singing in Spanish is currently considered cool and accepted by audiences worldwide.
The official sponsors for the 2023 Billboard Latin Music Week, which will take place from October 2 to 6, have been announced. These include AT&T, Cheetos, CN Bank, Delta Air Lines, Lexus, Netflix, Michelob ULTRA, and Smirnoff. Latin Music Week coincides with the 2023 Billboard Latin Music Awards, which will be held at the Watsco Center in Coral Gables, Florida on October 5th and will be broadcast live on Telemundo. The event will also be aired simultaneously on Universo, Peacock, the Telemundo App, and throughout Latin America and the Caribbean on Telemundo Internacional.
