Shakira performed for an estimated two million people on Rio de Janeiro's Copacabana Beach, according to Mayor Eduardo Cavaliere, who called it a historic record. The concert was overshadowed by the death of a crew member during stage assembly, according to multiple media reports.
In a post on X, he wrote that two million people attended the concert, calling the singer "The She-Wolf" who "made history in Rio." The crew member, whose name was not immediately released, was helping assemble stage structures when the accident occurred, according to multiple media reports, and the exact cause of death remains under investigation.
I arrived here when I was 18 years old, dreaming about singing for you. And now look at this. Life is magical.
The concert, part of her Las Mujeres Ya No Lloran world tour, began around 11pm local time and marked her first show in Brazil in several years, according to reports, with Shakira performing a medley of iconic hits including Hips Don't Lie, La Tortura, La Bicicleta, and BZRP Music Sessions #53/66, as confirmed by multiple outlets.
Shakira appeared in a series of custom-designed outfits by Italian fashion house Etro, which featured bold colors and intricate patterns, as reported by Brazilian media. During the performance, she waved a Brazilian flag amid a spectacular fireworks display that illuminated the night, according to multiple reports, and in emotional speeches told fans: "I arrived here when I was 18 years old, dreaming about singing for you. And now look at this. Life is magical," and "Us women, every time we fall we get up a little wiser."
Us women, every time we fall we get up a little wiser.
City Hall organized the free concert to boost economic activity between Carnival and Saint John's Day, as part of a broader strategy to sustain tourism during off-peak periods, according to city officials, with Cavaliere stating that the city's investment would yield a return 40 times greater, though the exact amount was not disclosed; a study by City Hall and Riotur projected the event would generate 777 million reais (around £114 million), although the net impact after deducting investment was not specified. At a press conference, Cavaliere said: "For us, parties are serious business. Because parties generate jobs, income, development, and identity for the city." The concert reinforced Shakira's deep and enduring ties with her Brazilian fans.
The She-Wolf made history in Rio.
For us, parties are serious business. Because parties generate jobs, income, development, and identity for the city.
Our investment in this show will give us a financial return 40 times greater.