Ed Sheeran and Shakira Unite for Electrifying Collaboration: A Modern Twist to “Hips Don’t Lie”
Global music icons Ed Sheeran and Shakira have joined forces for one of the most exciting cross-cultural collaborations of the year. The duo has released a reimagined version of Shakira’s 2005 global hit “Hips Don’t Lie,” marking a perfect blend of Latin passion, pop brilliance, and soulful storytelling. The new track also features Colombian urban sensation Beéle, completing what Shakira describes as a “trio of unexpected magic.”
The collaboration arrives as part of Shakira’s Spotify Anniversary EP, celebrating 30 years of her breakthrough album “Pies Descalzos” and 20 years of “Fijación Oral,” two records that cemented her as one of the most influential Latin artists of all time. This project revisits some of her greatest hits with fresh arrangements and global guest artists, blending nostalgia with modern flair.
Speaking about the collaboration, Shakira shared that she and Ed Sheeran had been “talking and exchanging ideas for years” but were waiting for the right song to bring their creative visions together. “This felt like the perfect moment,” she said. “Ed brings an entirely new dimension to ‘Hips Don’t Lie’; it’s a tribute to the past but also a statement for the future of music.”
Ed Sheeran, known for his melodic storytelling and cross-genre adaptability, admitted he was both thrilled and nervous to take on the role originally performed by Wyclef Jean. “I was quite scared stepping into Wyclef’s shoes,” Sheeran confessed. “But this version felt like the perfect new chapter; it’s playful, rhythmic, and full of life.”
Musically, the 2025 rendition infuses Shakira’s Latin-pop and cumbia roots with Ed Sheeran’s acoustic soul and Beéle’s urban rhythms, creating a refreshing sound that transcends language and culture. Critics have already dubbed it “a global anthem reborn,” a vibrant example of how music can evolve while preserving its original magic.
The collaboration also highlights Shakira’s enduring legacy as a cultural bridge between Latin America and the global stage. Her decision to revisit “Hips Don’t Lie” two decades later serves as a celebration of her journey from Barranquilla to worldwide fame, while showcasing her continued ability to innovate and inspire.
Meanwhile, Ed Sheeran continues to expand his artistic horizons by stepping beyond his English pop roots. His collaboration with Shakira represents not just a musical partnership but also a celebration of unity through rhythm, a theme that resonates deeply with both artists’ global audiences.
The release of the song has sparked massive excitement on social media, with fans praising the chemistry between Shakira and Sheeran and calling the collaboration “the duet we didn’t know we needed.” The accompanying video, shot in Barcelona and London, reportedly features high-energy choreography, stunning visuals, and tributes to both artists’ signature styles.
With this release, Shakira and Ed Sheeran prove that when music transcends borders, the result is nothing short of extraordinary: a track that connects generations, genres, and continents.