Shakira’s ES LATINA Residency: 5 Guest Performances We Want to See
Photo by Chris Cornejo.
Shakira is amplifying her Madrid residency to create something truly special. Beginning Sept. 18 and running through Oct. 11, the Colombian superstar will bring 12 shows to Iberdrola Music as part of her Las Mujeres Ya No Lloran World Tour, while transforming the surrounding venue into ES LATINA, an ambitious celebration of contemporary Latin culture.
Taking place in Macondo Park, a temporary city inspired by Gabriel García Márquez, the event will feature spaces dedicated to music, literature, fashion, gastronomy, art, and dance. The musical curation brings together artists from Spain and Latin America, including Nathy Peluso, Amaia, Guitarricadelafuente, Lia Kali, Yerai Cortés, Gale, Louta, Maro, and SANTOS BRAVOS, alongside emerging acts drawn from the long-running Benidorm Fest.
While these artists have been selected for Shakira’s concert run in Madrid, they haven’t been confirmed to take the stage with the She-Wolf herself. Still, that hasn’t stopped us from imagining the memorable moments that could unfold if they joined her for key songs during her set.
Without further ado, here are our dream matchups:
Nathy Peluso – "Ciega, Sordomuda"
This could be one of the most electric pairings. Nathy’s theatricality and explosive stage presence would bring a surge of energy to one of Shakira’s beloved songs. Peluso could add a new rap verse and bring serious vocal power to the song’s climax.
Amaia – "La Tortura"
Instead of the jolting, Alejandro Sanz-featuring original, Amaia’s vocal style could flip “La Tortura” into something entirely different without sacrificing the song’s emotional core. This would be a perfect chance to give Madrid audiences a unique experience.
Guitarricadelafuente – "Inevitable"
Guitarricadelafuente’s unorthodox flamenco- and indie rock-influenced style could bring out the best in “Inevitable,” no doubt one of the set’s highlights. We’re picturing something close to the original version, but with a new dimension courtesy of one of indie pop’s most distinctive voices.
J Noa – "Ojos Así"
Now here’s an idea: Strip down most of the “Ojos Así” arrangement, turn it into an Arabic-pop/hard hip-hop beat, keep part of the hooks, and let J Noa command the verses. As one of Latin America’s most accomplished emcees, the Dominican rapper could add serious heat to a Shaki classic and catch audiences by surprise.
Gale – "Antología"
Gale joining Shakira for “Antología” could make for an intimate moment. The Puerto Rican singer-songwriter could share the stage with Shakira and reconnect with these endearing lyrics on a whole new level. This kind of songwriting keeps Shakira’s work relevant today and reminds younger generations of her staying power.