The Queen of Latin Pop has paved the way for many artists after breaking through in the music industry. Be it her distinctive voice or her incredible moves, the 49-year-old has expressed herself through music that revolves around the theme of overcoming adversity, empowerment, passion and identity.
Aside from receiving accolades from prestigious award shows, the Colombian singer-songwriter has traversed multiple genres, including Afro-beat, Latin pop, Latin/alternative rock, R&B/Soul, Folk, Disco, Synthwave, Regional, Contemporary, and New Wave. Meet the icon, starlight, and global diva – Shakira. Today, as part of our Song of the Day, we’re breaking down Shakira’s 2010 FIFA World Cup anthem – “Waka Waka (This Time for Africa)”
Lyrics to Shakira’s song of the day: Breaking down ‘Waka Waka (This time for Africa)’
“You’re a good soldier, you pick your battlesGet up, dust yourself off, and get back in the saddleYou are on the front line, and everyone is watching youYou know this is serious, we’re getting close, and this isn’t over yetThe pressure is there, you feel itBut you got it all, believe itWhen you fall, get up, oh, ohAnd if you fall, get up, eh, ehTsamina Mina Zangalewa, because this is Africa.
Meaning of the song’s lyrics
The song “Waka Waka (This Time for Africa)” was named the official anthem of the 2010 FIFA World Cup.
Under the theme of resilience and courage, the lyrics were intended to give a wake-up call to footballers to believe and play for their time, despite setbacks. Success and failure do not define who you are; It’s about how you deal with them. Instead of feeling discouraged and disappointed, it is important to move forward with all the wounds and knowledge.The lyrics also talk about the pressure from peers and spectators, which can be nerve-racking during the game. However, it is important that you have confidence in yourself and believe in the skills you possess. There are highs and lows, but you just have to navigate your ship until it touches the coast gracefully. “Tsamina mina zangalewa” is the African hymn that questions where you are from, affirms roots and loneliness.
About Shakira
Shakira’s presence at the FIFA World Cup has led to many inspiring and entertaining moments in the entertainment industry. She will make history at the 2026 World Cup, and will headline the half-time show at the finals alongside…
Madonna
and BTS at MetLife Stadium, New Jersey, on July 19, 2026. Recently, they released the official anthem of 2026 titled “Dai Dai”, a collaboration with Burma Boy.