Seven years after her last studio album, Colombian superstar Shakira has made a resounding comeback with “Las Mujeres Ya No Lloran” (Women No Longer Cry). Released on March 22, 2024, the album not only signifies her return but also marks a powerful testament to her resilience and artistic evolution, earning her a prestigious Grammy Award and a significant nomination.
A Comeback Fueled by Resilience
“Las Mujeres Ya No Lloran” is Shakira’s twelfth studio album and her first release in seven years, following the acclaimed “El Dorado” in 2017. The album’s creation was deeply personal, inspired by the singer’s experiences surrounding her highly publicized separation from footballer Gerard Piqué. Shakira has described the process as “alchemical,” transforming moments of heartbreak and vulnerability into “diamonds” and strength. This narrative of overcoming adversity is intrinsically woven into the fabric of the album, resonating deeply with fans and critics alike.
The album title itself, taken from the empowering lyrics of her viral hit “Bzrp Music Sessions, Vol. 53,” encapsulates this theme of transformation: “Las mujeres ya no lloran, las mujeres facturan” – women no longer cry, they make money. This sentiment underscores the album’s broader message of empowerment and female solidarity.
A Diverse Sonic Landscape
Musically, “Las Mujeres Ya No Lloran” showcases Shakira’s versatility, blending a wide array of genres. Listeners are treated to a rich tapestry that includes pop, rock, Afrobeats, EDM, electropop, bachata, regional Mexican, and cumbia. This genre exploration reflects her ability to adapt to contemporary sounds while retaining her distinctive artistic identity.
The album features a star-studded lineup of collaborations, further enhancing its appeal. Among the notable artists are Cardi B on the opening track “PunterÃa,” Rauw Alejandro on “Te Felicito” and “Cohete,” Karol G on the chart-topping “TQG,” and Bizarrap for “Bzrp Music Sessions, Vol. 53” and “La Fuerte.” Other collaborations include Ozuna, Manuel Turizo, Grupo Frontera, and Fuerza Regida, alongside heartfelt contributions from Shakira’s sons, Milan and Sasha, on “Acróstico.”
Critical Acclaim and Commercial Dominance
Upon its release, “Las Mujeres Ya No Lloran” garnered widespread positive reviews from music critics. Many praised its genre diversity, lyrical depth, and Shakira’s raw emotional honesty. Clash magazine, for instance, described it as “revelatory, raw but resplendent throughout,” calling it one of Shakira’s best albums to date. NME also lauded the album, noting how Shakira spun her personal heartbreak into global pop success.
Commercially, the album achieved significant success, debuting at number one in Argentina and Spain. In the United States, it entered the Billboard 200 at number thirteen and topped the Billboard Top Latin Albums chart, marking her fifth album to reach the summit of this particular chart. The album was also certified seven times platinum (Latin) by the RIAA, a clear indicator of its widespread popularity and sales.
Grammy Recognition: A Milestone Achievement
The album’s impact was further solidified by its recognition at major award ceremonies. Shakira’s “Las Mujeres Ya No Lloran” was nominated for Album of the Year at the Latin Grammy Awards, underscoring its significance within the latin music landscape. Building on this, the album clinched the prestigious Grammy Award for Best Latin Pop Album at the 2025 Grammy Awards, marking Shakira’s fourth Grammy win and a triumphant moment in her illustrious career. This recognition highlights not only the album’s artistic merit but also its broad appeal and success in a highly competitive global music market.
Reaffirming Her Legacy
With “Las Mujeres Ya No Lloran,” Shakira has reaffirmed her position as a global music icon. The album represents a powerful artistic and personal journey, showcasing her enduring talent, her ability to connect with audiences through emotional storytelling, and her continued relevance in the ever-evolving music industry. It stands as a monument to her strength, resilience, and her undeniable reign as the “Queen of Latin Music.”
