Shakira returned to Spain for the first time in eight years on Friday, launching a 12-date residency at a purpose-built stadium in Madrid in front of 55,000 fans. The nearly two-hour show moved through rock, reggaeton, and her signature Lebanese influences, pulling from three decades of hits while she danced through multiple wardrobe changes.
The emotional centerpiece came with“Acróstico,”her song for children Milan and Sasha, which she dedicated to them onstage. She also added“Te Dejo Madrid”to the tour setlist for the first time, a song about leaving the very city she was standing in. Later, performing“Dai Dai,”the 2026 FIFA World Cup official song, she shouted“Spain, World Champion!”to the crowd.
Fans leaned all the way into the moment, showing up in purple wigs, wolf ears, and nods to Barranquilla Carnival. Shakira told the audience their presence proved the love they had given her over the years. Opening night wrapped with no surprise guests, but with eleven more Madrid dates ahead, anything could happen next.
Were you in that stadium Friday night, or are you hoping she brings this residency somewhere closer to you?
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Local Lawton
Local Lawton is a contributor to LocalBeat, covering local news and community stories.