Colombian pop star Shakira has revealed that she once came close to leaving the music industry altogether and pursuing a very different lifestyle. In a recent interview, the internationally acclaimed artist said there was a period in her life when she seriously considered retiring from music, purchasing a farm, and dedicating herself to caring for animals.
Known worldwide for hit songs such as Hips Don’t Lie and Waka Waka, Shakira explained that the idea emerged several years ago when she was reflecting on her future and her place within the entertainment industry. According to her account, she contemplated stepping away from her career entirely in favour of a quieter and more rural existence.
Recalling that period, Shakira said she genuinely thought about abandoning everything connected with her professional life, buying a farm, raising animals, and retiring from music. The plan, she noted, seemed appealing at the time as an alternative to the demands and responsibilities associated with a global music career.
However, she later came to view the idea as an emotional and somewhat unrealistic response to the circumstances she was experiencing. Looking back, she expressed surprise that she had seriously entertained such a possibility. The singer explained that many people encounter moments in life when they question their career paths, personal identity, and long-term direction. She suggested that she, too, experienced a phase of uncertainty during which she reassessed her priorities and future ambitions.
Following that period of reflection, Shakira concluded that she still had much to contribute to music. Rather than withdrawing from the industry, she decided to remain active and continue pursuing new creative projects. That decision has resulted in a renewed presence on the international music scene, where she continues to participate in major global events and productions.
More recently, Shakira became involved in the 2026 FIFA World Cup theme song, Dai Dai. Her association with FIFA World Cup music is longstanding. She had previously been involved in official World Cup music projects linked to the tournaments held in 2006, 2010 and 2014.
The singer is also scheduled to appear as a co-headline performer during the FIFA World Cup Final halftime show on 19 July. Her continued participation in high-profile international events reflects her ongoing role within the global music and entertainment industries.
Shakira’s Reported World Cup Music Involvement
| Year | Involvement |
|---|---|
| 2006 | Participated in official FIFA World Cup music activities |
| 2010 | Involved in World Cup-related official music projects |
| 2014 | Contributed to official FIFA World Cup music activities |
| 2026 | Participated in the theme song Dai Dai |
| 19 July (upcoming) | Scheduled as a co-headline performer at the FIFA World Cup Final halftime show |
Shakira’s comments provide insight into a period when she considered leaving the profession that made her one of the world’s most recognisable recording artists. Although she once contemplated exchanging international stages for life on a farm, she ultimately decided to remain in music, believing that she still had more to offer creatively. Today, she continues to maintain an active presence in major international entertainment projects while remaining one of the most prominent figures in contemporary popular music.