International superstar Shakira performed for an estimated 2 million people at a free concert on Copacabana Beach on Saturday, city officials said — one of the largest shows of her career.
“Brazil, I love you! It’s magical to think that here we are, millions of souls together, ready to sing, dance, be moved and remind the world what really matters,” the 49-year-old Colombian told the crowd in Portuguese. She said she had long dreamed of singing on Copacabana. “And now look at this. Life is magical.”
The show was part of her Women No Longer Cry world tour. Fans celebrated late-career and classic hits including “Hips Don’t Lie,” “La Tortura” and “La Bicicleta.” The 2025 tour, which kicked off in Rio, has already been recognized by Guinness World Records as the highest-grossing tour by a Latin artist.
Many attendees traveled long distances — some crossed borders — and dozens camped on the sand overnight to secure spots near the stage. By Saturday morning the beach was packed as street vendors sold sweetcorn, snacks, bottled water and caipirinhas.
Rio Mayor Eduardo Cavaliere posted on X that 2 million people attended, declaring that the “She-Wolf made history in Rio.” City officials estimate the event will generate more than $160 million (136.4 million euros) in local economic activity.
In recent years other pop icons, including Madonna and Lady Gaga, have staged similarly massive beach concerts in Rio, drawing comparable crowds.
Edited by: Louis Oelofse