Shakira, the iconic Colombian pop sensation, has never been one to shy away from speaking her mind, and her recent interview with Zane Lowe on Apple Music 1 was no exception. The 47-year-old singer opened up about her views on marriage, revealing that being married wasn’t conducive to her creativity and career in the music industry.
A New Chapter
After an 11-year relationship with soccer star Gerard Piqué, the couple announced their separation in 2022, leaving behind a shared life and two children, Milan and Sasha. Shakira confessed that the absence of a husband in her life has surprisingly brought her a sense of liberation. She expressed, “In a way, it’s kind of good not to have a husband because that…I don’t know why it was dragging me down, man.”
Shakira’s Creative Renaissance
The Grammy-winning artist admitted that the newfound freedom has reignited her passion for her craft. She confessed, “Now I feel like working. I feel like writing songs. I feel like making music. It’s a compulsive need of mine that I didn’t feel before.”
The Challenges of Single Motherhood
However, alongside this newfound sense of freedom comes the challenges of single parenthood. Shakira acknowledged that being a single mother has its hurdles, especially without a partner to share the responsibilities. She explained, “It’s more challenging because now I’m in charge of these two kids, these two babies that depend on me so much. And I’m a single mother, I don’t have a husband at home to help out with anything.”
Juggling Motherhood and Music
In a previous interview with Billboard, Shakira elaborated on the complexities of balancing motherhood with her demanding career. She emphasized the constant juggling act that single motherhood requires, especially when combined with the responsibilities of being a global pop star. “Sometimes I think being a single mom and the rhythm of being a pop star aren’t compatible,” she shared. “I have to put my kids to bed, go to the recording studio; everything is uphill.”
Redefining Priorities
The absence of a partner means Shakira must meticulously manage her time to fulfil both her roles as a mother and a musician. She emphasised the importance of being present for her children while also maintaining her professional commitments. “When you don’t have a husband who can stay home with the kids, it’s constant juggling because I like to be a present mom, and I need to be there every moment with my children: take them to school, have breakfast with them, take them to playdates. And aside from that, I have to make money,” Shakira added.
Shakira’s Latest Album Release
Despite the challenges, Shakira remains resilient and dedicated to her music. Her 12th studio album, *Las Mujeres Ya No Lloran* (Women Don’t Cry Anymore), was released on March 22, 2024, marking another milestone in her illustrious career. Through her candid revelations about marriage, motherhood, and music, Shakira continues to inspire fans with her authenticity and unwavering commitment to her passions.