Latest news with #RauwAlejandro
Yahoo
4 days ago
- Business
- Yahoo
Buchanan's Whisky and Global Superstar Rauw Alejandro Partner to Fire Up Summer with New Buchanan's Asados Unidos Campaign Bringing the Heat from the Stage to the Grill and Beyond
This first campaign marks the start of an exciting new relationship between Buchanan's and Rauw, kicking off the summer with vibrant content, bold flavors, and unique IRL moments that unite 200%ers over music, cocktails, and the ultimate grilling debate: Who brings the best flavor on the grill? NEW YORK, June 2, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Buchanan's Blended Scotch Whisky is heating up the grill with the launch of its new creative campaign, Buchanan's Asados Unidos, inviting 200%ers and Latinos from all over to join the brand in celebrating the summer rhythm and flavor that make their carne asadas, parrilladas and barbecues so distinct and delicious. Together with Latin GRAMMY® Award-winning and 4x GRAMMY®-nominated global superstar Rauw Alejandro, Buchanan's is sparking up a flavorful cultural debate to determine who has the best asado. Experience the interactive Multimedia News Release here: Known for fusing sounds and bringing his own sazón to stages worldwide, Rauw is joining Buchanan's longstanding celebration and support of Latin Music – inspiring 200%ers to proudly share the rhythm and flavors that make their asados so unique, while proving that Buchanan's is the spirit that brings us all together at the table despite our differences on the grill. Whether you call it a carne asada, parrillada, or asado, the Buchanan's Asados Unidos campaign agrees that this Hispanic occasion has more sazón, bateria, and rhythm than others, so bring your flavorful traditions, energy, and beats to the grill this summer while enjoying a Buchanita cocktail. The new creative, developed by GALE rooted in the same embrace of culture and customs that inspired Rauw's latest No. 1 album and current Cosa Nuestra Tour, comes to life through a dynamic four-part video series featuring Rauw Alejandro and friends from Puerto Rico, Argentina, Colombia, and Mexico. Set against sunny backdrops, the series captures the real-life ways Latinos come together to enjoy bold flavors, family and friendship as the group grills, laughs and playfully tease one another over subtle cultural differences – like what music makes the best companion to grilling from Salsa, Merengue, Reggaeton or Bomba. Launching across digital platforms throughout the summer, the :15 video spots celebrate the distinct flavors and rhythm of 200% grilling traditions. "Desde mi niñez, Parrilladas siempre han sido parte de mi cultura y mi gente," says global superstar Rauw Alejandro. "Being the newest part of the Buchanan's familia and participating in the Asados Unidos campaign is special because it celebrates something very important to me – the way we come together. Whether it's called a barbecue, carne asada, parrillada, or asado, the heart is the same: sabor, música y comunidad. Stay tuned for what we're cooking up next!" "Rauw Alejandro's artistic vision and message behind 'Cosa Nuestra' are perfectly aligned with what we've always aimed to do with Buchanan's, and that is celebrate the vibrant duality and deep sense of community of 200%ers—those who are 100% Hispanic and 100% American," says Linda Lagos-Morales, Brand Director, Buchanan's Scotch Whisky. "This summer, Asados Unidos brings that spirit to life through the cultural cornerstone of the Asado—honoring the traditions, flavors and friendly debates that unite us around the grill. With Rauw Alejandro joining the Buchanan's familia, we're excited to show that no matter what you call it, the pride, passion and 200% spirit are what bring us together." Following Buchanan's onstage bar debut during the groundbreaking U.S. leg of Rauw's acclaimed Cosa Nuestra World Tour and after party presence in Los Angeles, Miami, NYC, Chicago and Houston, Buchanan's is bringing the asado debate to high-energy local events such as Toñita Fest in New York City. To inspire 200%ers elevate their asados this summer, Buchanan's is also partnering with three Latin-American grillmasters to create recipes showcasing the rich flavors and culture of the ultimate asado deliciously paired with one of the Buchanan's signature cocktails below, making it the go-to grilling companion of the season. Rauw Fashioned – A take on the traditional cocktail blending the sweet richness of figs with the vibrant zest of oranges, reflecting Rauw's Sicilian and Puerto Rican roots in one bold, flavorful cocktail with Buchanan's DeLuxe. Buchanita – The brand's iconic serve bursts with tropical flavor and is topped with a naturally vibrant foam, it is a tribute to summer grilling and 200% flair in a glass with just Buchanan's DeLuxe and Fresh Pineapple Juice. Piña Spritz – This light, crisp, and full of tropical zest cocktail is the perfect summer-ready sip with just three simple ingredients: Buchanan's Pineapple, Club Soda and Coconut Water with a chili-lime rim. Buchanan's Blended Scotch Whisky and Rauw Alejandro invite those who are 21+ to join the Asados Unidos debate by following @Buchananswhisky and continue the asado season throughout the summer by making one of the signature cocktails, which can be found at Buchanan's Whisky is available for purchase online and in retail stores nationwide wherever fine spirits are sold, at a retail price of $29.99. About BUCHANAN'S Blended Scotch Whisky BUCHANAN'S Blended Scotch Whisky's true purpose is to unite all who bring their 100% Hispanic and 100% American identities together to live a 200% life. It was created to be shared with one another and enjoyed by all, because our founder, James Buchanan believed in the power of sharing. The BUCHANAN'S Blended Scotch Whisky brand has more than 130 years of authentic heritage, and every bottle represents James Buchanan's commitment to creating the finest blended Scotch Whiskies. The BUCHANAN'S Blended Scotch Whisky Portfolio features five gold award-winning marques, including: BUCHANAN'S DeLuxe Blended Scotch Whisky, BUCHANAN'S Pineapple, BUCHANAN'S MASTER Blended Scotch Whisky, BUCHANAN'S Special Reserve Blended Scotch Whisky, and BUCHANAN'S RED SEAL Blended Scotch Whisky. All of these marques have been recognized in the most prestigious international spirits competitions. In 2025, BUCHANAN'S DeLuxe Blended Scotch Whisky won Double Gold and at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition and Gold in the International Spirit Competition. For more information, visit or connect with us on Facebook and Instagram. About RAUW ALEJANDRO Latin GRAMMY® award winning and 4x GRAMMY® nominated Puerto Rican singer and songwriter Rauw Alejandro has been leading the new generation of Latin music artists since he appeared on the scene in 2016. One of Reggaeton's fastest rising stars, Rauw's collaborations include Pharrell Williams ("Airplane Tickets"), Shakira ("Te Felicito") Selena Gomez ("Baila Conmigo"), Anuel AA ("Reloj") and Camilo ("Tattoo") among others. Rauw's meteoric rise as one of the most prominent figures in Latin urban music has been undeniable and through his continuous musical evolution, he continues to deliver refreshing and innovative sounds that keep him at the top of the genre. Rauw's accolades are extensive; two Latin GRAMMY® awards, four GRAMMY® nominations, two Billboard Latin Music Awards, five Premios Tú Música Urbano, two Premios Juventud, an iHeart Radio Award, and more. His 6x RIAA Latin Platinum debut album, Afrodisíaco, released in November 2020, earned Rauw his first GRAMMY® nomination for "Best Urban Music Album" and also garnered him a Latin GRAMMY® nomination for "Best New Artist." In 2021 his second studio album, Vice Versa, debuted at #1 on Billboard's Top Latin Album chart, #3 on Spotify's Top Debut Album and #1 on Apple Music's Latin Album charts. The album also notably topped the Best Albums of 2021 lists in The New York Times, Rolling Stone, NPR and Billboard. In 2022, Rauw released his third studio album, Saturno, to rave reviews. The album was nominated for a GRAMMY® for "Best Urban Music Album" and featured collaborations with Baby Rasta, DJ Playero, Chris Palace, Arcángel, Súbelo NEO, Lyanno and Brray. Billboard named the album "one of the most eclectic albums in reggaeton-pop." In 2023 Rauw released his fourth studio album Playa Saturno. The 14-track "spinoff" of Saturno features collaborations with Jowell y Randy, Miguel Bosé, and Junior H. In November 2024 he released his highly anticipated fifth album, Cosa Nuestra, which debuted at #1 globally on the Apple Music and Spotify charts, making Rauw one of the few Latin artists to ever achieve this milestone and #1 on Billboard's Latin Albums chart and #6 on the Billboard Top 200. With this release Rauw continues to redefine the global music landscape, bridging the gap between Latin music and international audiences. His artistry, groundbreaking innovation, and magnetic stage presence affirm his place as a transformative force in the music industry. About DIAGEO: DIAGEO is a global leader in beverage alcohol with an outstanding collection of brands including Johnnie Walker, Crown Royal, Bulleit and Buchanan's whiskies, Smirnoff, CÎROC and Ketel One vodkas, Casamigos, DELEÓN and Don Julio tequilas, Captain Morgan, Baileys, Tanqueray and Guinness. DIAGEO is listed on both the New York Stock Exchange (DEO) and the London Stock Exchange (DGE) and our products are sold in more than 180 countries around the world. For more information about DIAGEO, our people, our brands, and performance, visit Visit DIAGEO's global responsible drinking resource, for information, initiatives, and ways to share best practice. Follow us on Instagram for news and information about DIAGEO North America: @Diageo_NA. Celebrating life, every day, everywhere. Media Contact: Buchanans@ View original content: SOURCE Buchanan's Scotch Whisky
Yahoo
4 days ago
- Business
- Yahoo
Buchanan's Whisky and Global Superstar Rauw Alejandro Partner to Fire Up Summer with New Buchanan's Asados Unidos Campaign Bringing the Heat from the Stage to the Grill and Beyond
This first campaign marks the start of an exciting new relationship between Buchanan's and Rauw, kicking off the summer with vibrant content, bold flavors, and unique IRL moments that unite 200%ers over music, cocktails, and the ultimate grilling debate: Who brings the best flavor on the grill? NEW YORK, June 2, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Buchanan's Blended Scotch Whisky is heating up the grill with the launch of its new creative campaign, Buchanan's Asados Unidos, inviting 200%ers and Latinos from all over to join the brand in celebrating the summer rhythm and flavor that make their carne asadas, parrilladas and barbecues so distinct and delicious. Together with Latin GRAMMY® Award-winning and 4x GRAMMY®-nominated global superstar Rauw Alejandro, Buchanan's is sparking up a flavorful cultural debate to determine who has the best asado. Experience the interactive Multimedia News Release here: Known for fusing sounds and bringing his own sazón to stages worldwide, Rauw is joining Buchanan's longstanding celebration and support of Latin Music – inspiring 200%ers to proudly share the rhythm and flavors that make their asados so unique, while proving that Buchanan's is the spirit that brings us all together at the table despite our differences on the grill. Whether you call it a carne asada, parrillada, or asado, the Buchanan's Asados Unidos campaign agrees that this Hispanic occasion has more sazón, bateria, and rhythm than others, so bring your flavorful traditions, energy, and beats to the grill this summer while enjoying a Buchanita cocktail. The new creative, developed by GALE rooted in the same embrace of culture and customs that inspired Rauw's latest No. 1 album and current Cosa Nuestra Tour, comes to life through a dynamic four-part video series featuring Rauw Alejandro and friends from Puerto Rico, Argentina, Colombia, and Mexico. Set against sunny backdrops, the series captures the real-life ways Latinos come together to enjoy bold flavors, family and friendship as the group grills, laughs and playfully tease one another over subtle cultural differences – like what music makes the best companion to grilling from Salsa, Merengue, Reggaeton or Bomba. Launching across digital platforms throughout the summer, the :15 video spots celebrate the distinct flavors and rhythm of 200% grilling traditions. "Desde mi niñez, Parrilladas siempre han sido parte de mi cultura y mi gente," says global superstar Rauw Alejandro. "Being the newest part of the Buchanan's familia and participating in the Asados Unidos campaign is special because it celebrates something very important to me – the way we come together. Whether it's called a barbecue, carne asada, parrillada, or asado, the heart is the same: sabor, música y comunidad. Stay tuned for what we're cooking up next!" "Rauw Alejandro's artistic vision and message behind 'Cosa Nuestra' are perfectly aligned with what we've always aimed to do with Buchanan's, and that is celebrate the vibrant duality and deep sense of community of 200%ers—those who are 100% Hispanic and 100% American," says Linda Lagos-Morales, Brand Director, Buchanan's Scotch Whisky. "This summer, Asados Unidos brings that spirit to life through the cultural cornerstone of the Asado—honoring the traditions, flavors and friendly debates that unite us around the grill. With Rauw Alejandro joining the Buchanan's familia, we're excited to show that no matter what you call it, the pride, passion and 200% spirit are what bring us together." Following Buchanan's onstage bar debut during the groundbreaking U.S. leg of Rauw's acclaimed Cosa Nuestra World Tour and after party presence in Los Angeles, Miami, NYC, Chicago and Houston, Buchanan's is bringing the asado debate to high-energy local events such as Toñita Fest in New York City. To inspire 200%ers elevate their asados this summer, Buchanan's is also partnering with three Latin-American grillmasters to create recipes showcasing the rich flavors and culture of the ultimate asado deliciously paired with one of the Buchanan's signature cocktails below, making it the go-to grilling companion of the season. Rauw Fashioned – A take on the traditional cocktail blending the sweet richness of figs with the vibrant zest of oranges, reflecting Rauw's Sicilian and Puerto Rican roots in one bold, flavorful cocktail with Buchanan's DeLuxe. Buchanita – The brand's iconic serve bursts with tropical flavor and is topped with a naturally vibrant foam, it is a tribute to summer grilling and 200% flair in a glass with just Buchanan's DeLuxe and Fresh Pineapple Juice. Piña Spritz – This light, crisp, and full of tropical zest cocktail is the perfect summer-ready sip with just three simple ingredients: Buchanan's Pineapple, Club Soda and Coconut Water with a chili-lime rim. Buchanan's Blended Scotch Whisky and Rauw Alejandro invite those who are 21+ to join the Asados Unidos debate by following @Buchananswhisky and continue the asado season throughout the summer by making one of the signature cocktails, which can be found at Buchanan's Whisky is available for purchase online and in retail stores nationwide wherever fine spirits are sold, at a retail price of $29.99. About BUCHANAN'S Blended Scotch Whisky BUCHANAN'S Blended Scotch Whisky's true purpose is to unite all who bring their 100% Hispanic and 100% American identities together to live a 200% life. It was created to be shared with one another and enjoyed by all, because our founder, James Buchanan believed in the power of sharing. The BUCHANAN'S Blended Scotch Whisky brand has more than 130 years of authentic heritage, and every bottle represents James Buchanan's commitment to creating the finest blended Scotch Whiskies. The BUCHANAN'S Blended Scotch Whisky Portfolio features five gold award-winning marques, including: BUCHANAN'S DeLuxe Blended Scotch Whisky, BUCHANAN'S Pineapple, BUCHANAN'S MASTER Blended Scotch Whisky, BUCHANAN'S Special Reserve Blended Scotch Whisky, and BUCHANAN'S RED SEAL Blended Scotch Whisky. All of these marques have been recognized in the most prestigious international spirits competitions. In 2025, BUCHANAN'S DeLuxe Blended Scotch Whisky won Double Gold and at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition and Gold in the International Spirit Competition. For more information, visit or connect with us on Facebook and Instagram. About RAUW ALEJANDRO Latin GRAMMY® award winning and 4x GRAMMY® nominated Puerto Rican singer and songwriter Rauw Alejandro has been leading the new generation of Latin music artists since he appeared on the scene in 2016. One of Reggaeton's fastest rising stars, Rauw's collaborations include Pharrell Williams ("Airplane Tickets"), Shakira ("Te Felicito") Selena Gomez ("Baila Conmigo"), Anuel AA ("Reloj") and Camilo ("Tattoo") among others. Rauw's meteoric rise as one of the most prominent figures in Latin urban music has been undeniable and through his continuous musical evolution, he continues to deliver refreshing and innovative sounds that keep him at the top of the genre. Rauw's accolades are extensive; two Latin GRAMMY® awards, four GRAMMY® nominations, two Billboard Latin Music Awards, five Premios Tú Música Urbano, two Premios Juventud, an iHeart Radio Award, and more. His 6x RIAA Latin Platinum debut album, Afrodisíaco, released in November 2020, earned Rauw his first GRAMMY® nomination for "Best Urban Music Album" and also garnered him a Latin GRAMMY® nomination for "Best New Artist." In 2021 his second studio album, Vice Versa, debuted at #1 on Billboard's Top Latin Album chart, #3 on Spotify's Top Debut Album and #1 on Apple Music's Latin Album charts. The album also notably topped the Best Albums of 2021 lists in The New York Times, Rolling Stone, NPR and Billboard. In 2022, Rauw released his third studio album, Saturno, to rave reviews. The album was nominated for a GRAMMY® for "Best Urban Music Album" and featured collaborations with Baby Rasta, DJ Playero, Chris Palace, Arcángel, Súbelo NEO, Lyanno and Brray. Billboard named the album "one of the most eclectic albums in reggaeton-pop." In 2023 Rauw released his fourth studio album Playa Saturno. The 14-track "spinoff" of Saturno features collaborations with Jowell y Randy, Miguel Bosé, and Junior H. In November 2024 he released his highly anticipated fifth album, Cosa Nuestra, which debuted at #1 globally on the Apple Music and Spotify charts, making Rauw one of the few Latin artists to ever achieve this milestone and #1 on Billboard's Latin Albums chart and #6 on the Billboard Top 200. With this release Rauw continues to redefine the global music landscape, bridging the gap between Latin music and international audiences. His artistry, groundbreaking innovation, and magnetic stage presence affirm his place as a transformative force in the music industry. About DIAGEO: DIAGEO is a global leader in beverage alcohol with an outstanding collection of brands including Johnnie Walker, Crown Royal, Bulleit and Buchanan's whiskies, Smirnoff, CÎROC and Ketel One vodkas, Casamigos, DELEÓN and Don Julio tequilas, Captain Morgan, Baileys, Tanqueray and Guinness. DIAGEO is listed on both the New York Stock Exchange (DEO) and the London Stock Exchange (DGE) and our products are sold in more than 180 countries around the world. For more information about DIAGEO, our people, our brands, and performance, visit Visit DIAGEO's global responsible drinking resource, for information, initiatives, and ways to share best practice. Follow us on Instagram for news and information about DIAGEO North America: @Diageo_NA. Celebrating life, every day, everywhere. Media Contact: Buchanans@ View original content: SOURCE Buchanan's Scotch Whisky Sign in to access your portfolio
Yahoo
22-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Every Spanish-Language Album to Reach No. 1 on the Billboard 200
History was made in Latin music when two Spanish-language albums hit No. 1 and No. 2 at the same time on the Billboard 200 albums chart this week. More from Billboard Shakira Brings Star Power to MetLife Stadium With Pitbull, Rauw Alejandro & Wyclef Jean Olga Tañón Named Queen of Puerto Rican Parade & More Uplifting Moments in Latin Music Carín León Brings 16-Piece Mexican Band to Tiny Desk Concert Both Bad Bunny's Debí Tirar Más Fotos and Fuerza Regida's 111XPANTIA occupied the spots, making it a first in the all-genre chart's 69-year history. The Puerto Rican artist returned to the top, jumping 7-1 after its vinyl release sold 48,000 copies, while the Música Mexicana group achieved its highest-charting album ever at No. 2. With 111XPANTIA, Fuerza earned the highest-charting regional Mexican music album ever, surpassing the No. 3 debut and peak of Peso Pluma's Génesis in 2023. The California-based band also had the highest-charting Spanish-language album ever by a duo or group, surpassing the No. 4 debut and peak of Maná's Amar Es Combatir in 2006. Meanwhile, El Conejo Malo had the largest sales week for a Latin music album in nearly six years, following Santana's Africa Speaks, which sold 57,000 copies in 2019. Debí Tirar Más Fotos added a fourth total week atop the list, as it previously spent three weeks at No. 1, consecutively, on the Jan. 25-Feb. 8-dated charts. Earlier this year, Rauw Alejandro also made headlines as his fifth studio album, Cosa Nuestra, launched at No. 6 on the overall Billboard 200, marking his highest-charting set, and his first top 10, among five career entries. Though Bad Bunny's streak may seem hard to beat, he's not the only artist to reach the top of the Billboard 200 chart. Below, check out which other predominantly Spanish-language albums have topped the weekly the Chart: Debuted at No. 1 in Aug. 1995, spending one week on top. Selena's Dreaming of You, released posthumously, made history as the first predominately Spanish-language album to ever debut at No. 1 on the all-genre Billboard 200 chart. The first six tracks on the album are all in English, while the other six are all-Spanish, and one track is the Chart: Debuted at No. 1 in Feb. 11, 2006, spending one week on top. Though Il Divo is an Italian 'popopera' quartet, the group's Ancora album qualifies on this list because seven of its 10 songs are in Spanish. The other tracks on the Ancora album include one in Italian, one in French, and one in English and the Chart: Debuted at No. 1 in Dec. 2020, spending one week on top. Though Selena made history with her bilingual set in 1995, it wasn't until 25 years later that Bad Bunny made historic headlines with, El Último Tour del Mundo. The album debuted No. 1 on the Billboard 200, marking the first all-Spanish-language album to reach the top in the chart's the Chart: Debuted at No. 1 in May 2022, spending 13 weeks on top. Bad Bunny's joyous, beach-ready opus — which became a global soundtrack for a post-pandemic summer — spent 13 weeks at No. 1, becoming the top Billboard 200 album of 2022. Additionally, it became the Puerto Rican artist's longest-leading title on the chart so the Chart: Debuted at No. 1 in March 2023, spending one week on top. In Spring 2023, Karol G's Mañana Será Bonito made an unprecedented splash on the Billboard 200, marking both the first No. 1 for the Colombian artist and the chart's first No. 1 all-Spanish-language album by a female artist. (Selena's Dreaming of You, which topped the chart in 1995, has songs in Spanish and English).On the Chart: Debuted at No. 1 in Oct. 2024, spending one week on top. A sharp contrast to his bright, summer-friendly Un Verano Sin Ti, Bad Bunny's Nadie Sabe Lo Que Va a Pasar Mañana is somber and moody. The 22-track EP, packed with hard-hitting trap beats and introspective lyrics about processing his rise to fame, is a gift to his day-one the Chart: Peaked at No. 1 in Jan. 2025, spending four weeks on top (so far). Bad Bunny's DTMF debuted at No. 2 on the chart dated Jan. 18, and peaked at No. 1 a week later. The set was released on an off-cycle on Jan. 5, 2025, and, arrived on the chart the previous week at No. 2 with only five days of activity (as the chart's tracking week runs Friday through Thursday). Best of Billboard Chart Rewind: In 1989, New Kids on the Block Were 'Hangin' Tough' at No. 1 Janet Jackson's Biggest Billboard Hot 100 Hits H.E.R. & Chris Brown 'Come Through' to No. 1 on Adult R&B Airplay Chart
The Herald Scotland
14-05-2025
- Entertainment
- The Herald Scotland
Shakira says huge tour isn't 'about my ego,' but a love letter to fans
And lest we forget to mention those hip bones that seem to liquify every time she rotates them. Following the February launch of her world tour in South America to support last year's "Las Mujeres Ya No Lloran," her 12th studio album featuring collaborations with Cardi B, Karol G and Rauw Alejandro, Shakira tweaked her stadium spectacle for her North American fans. At the May 13 kickoff, she'll continue her record-breaking career as the first Latin female artist to headline a sold-out show at Bank of America Stadium in Charlotte, North Carolina. She'll crisscross the country - New York, Chicago, Washington, D.C., Atlanta, Miami, Phoenix and San Diego among her stops - through June before another round of shows in Mexico, where she recently broke Taylor Swift's record of four sold out concerts at Estadio GNP Seguros in Mexico City with her own seven (and counting). On a brief break before leaving for the studio, Shakira, a seemingly ageless 48, chatted excitedly about the visual extravaganza she's created, the guests she's giddy about performing with (Wyclef Jean and Alejandro among them) and how her sons Milan, 12 and Sasha, 10, are her most constructive critics. More: Bad Bunny pays tribute to Puerto Rico with his Met Gala look after announcing world tour Question: You've had a bit of a break from the tour since basically taking over Mexico in March. How have you been spending the past month? Answer: (Laughs) If you can call it a break. I've been taking my kids to doctor's appointments, doing homework with them, but also working on the new wardrobe changes and surprises I have prepared for the North American tour. That all takes some time and preparation and then I also had to prepare for the Met Gala and the (May 6) appearance on Jimmy Fallon, so I haven't had a day off. I'm completely exhausted but at the same time thrilled because I'll soon be reuniting with my fans in America. It's been a long time and it's going to be epic. This is like a renewal of our vows! What do you have to do to prepare to get back on stage again for a two-hour-plus stadium show? I have to rehearse a few days and test everything again from the screens to the music. There are some new additions to the repertoire like "Underneath Your Clothes." I know some of my American fans will want to hear the classics other than "Hips Don't Lie" and "Whenever, Wherever." There are a lot of things that are new to this tour, and then I have friends like Alejandro Sanz on the first date in Charlotte and Rauw Alejandro my second night in New York and Wyclef Jean in Charlotte, which will be a one-of-a-kind moment to share the stage with him after so many years. I'm sure fans will love hearing him introduce "Hips Don't Lie" with "Shakira, Shakira." It's hard to believe that song is 20 years old. That's a song that is timeless and performed for every single tour and every single performance. It was one of the first songs that had a reggaeton sound back in the day when it was a niche thing to do. I remember having discovered this groove from Puerto Rico and I started playing with it and decided to build a track on that (rhythmic) pattern. I never knew that years later it would have such an impact. You said when this album came out that you used it to transform pain into productivity. Does playing live also give you a feeling of catharsis, because on stage you always look like you're totally enraptured in the music. I am. There's no way out because the audience is right there and they are so immersed in the music and the connection is undeniable. The emotions we feel every night from joy, moments when we sing and dance and celebrate to moments where I see people emotional and crying and remembering moments in their own life. It's more than a concert. It's not about my ego. It's a community and a union and a dialogue between the audience and an artist that has dedicated her entire life to making music that has been the soundtrack to their lives. I feel this identification that is truly unique. I've never seen more loyal, more militant fans. They protect me against anyone and lift me up when I need them the most. More: Lorde is back with 2025 tour: How to get tickets to Ultrasound tour You're decades into a career and still setting milestones. You're the first Latin female act to headline these stadiums in Charlotte and Boston and San Diego and you just broke Taylor Swift's record at the stadium in Mexico City. Is it all a bit surreal? Mexico City was crazy. We did seven nights and we're going back and will make it 11. I never expected anything like that. It's overwhelming and humbling and insane. It is totally surreal, but I've worked so much on every detail of this show. I'm building the biggest setlist of my career. There are going to be visuals I created, the narrative and the details of them. There are 145 people on this tour to make it happen every night. I've created original music for the transitions in the show, new choreography and arrangements. I have 13 costume changes, so all of what I've learned these years of making music, I feel like this is a recap of that journey. You've been very open with sharing your musical life with your kids. As they get older, has motherhood changed the way you approach your music? Last night I was at the studio and Milan was like, "Mommy come home, I miss you." I was in the middle of a really creative moment and was like, "Sorry guys, I have to go." I'm not just an artist. I am, first and foremost, a mother and they are my absolute priority in life and they know that. In a way I have less time to accomplish more, but to see them and how musical they are inspires me and I hope I'm showing them how hard you have to work to achieve a result. They are witnesses to how hard I work and how much I give of myself. Do they tell you about new music? They're huge fans of Kendrick Lamar. And the reason I ended up collaborating with Bizarrap in 2023 was because of Milan. He told me you've gotta collaborate with him and I said "Who is that?" and he was like "He's the Argentinian god." He turned my attention to his music and we ended up doing ("Shakira: Bzrp Music Sessions, Vol. 53") together and it was a No. 1 hit. I pick their brains and ask for their opinions on everything I do. They have a good eye and good ears, and they are very demanding (laughs). They give me notes after the shows they come to. They always give me comments like, "OK, tonight this happened ..." When you were first starting, there was a lot of emphasis on "crossover success" with artists like Ricky Martin and Enrique Iglesias also recording in English to break into the mainstream. What has it been like to see this new generation of Latin stars rewrite that playbook and succeed with all-Spanish music? If you think about it, for me being Colombian and a woman and also singing in Spanish like with "La Tortura" (in 2005) and having the general market in America playing music in Spanish, that was a real challenge back then. That was one of the few songs that made it of that genre and that's why it's so important for me to have Alejandro (Sanz, who also sings on the track) back with me for opening night. It's going to be a very special moment.
Yahoo
13-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
As Shakira kicks off new tour, she talks setlist, special guests and prioritizing her kids
Shakira is the bestselling female Latin artist of all time. She's also a musical technician who has achieved worldwide domination – along with four Grammy Awards and 15 Latin Grammy Awards – with rhythmically rich songs that mash pop, bachata, reggaeton and rock into aural fixations that underscore her Colombian roots ('La Tortura,' 'Loca') and seduce American listeners ('She Wolf,' 'Whenever, Wherever') with equal charm. And lest we forget to mention those hip bones that seem to liquify every time she rotates them. Following the February launch of her world tour in South America to support last year's 'Las Mujeres Ya No Lloran,' her 12th studio album featuring collaborations with Cardi B, Karol G and Rauw Alejandro, Shakira tweaked her stadium spectacle for her North American fans. At the May 13 kickoff, she'll continue her record-breaking career as the first Latin female artist to headline a sold-out show at Bank of America Stadium in Charlotte, North Carolina. She'll crisscross the country – New York, Chicago, Washington, D.C., Atlanta, Miami, Phoenix and San Diego among her stops – through June before another round of shows in Mexico, where she recently broke Taylor Swift's record of four sold out concerts at Estadio GNP Seguros in Mexico City with her own seven (and counting). On a brief break before leaving for the studio, Shakira, a seemingly ageless 48, chatted excitedly about the visual extravaganza she's created, the guests she's giddy about performing with (Wyclef Jean and Alejandro among them) and how her sons Milán, 12 and Sasha, 10, are her most constructive critics. More: Bad Bunny pays tribute to Puerto Rico with his Met Gala look after announcing world tour Question: You've had a bit of a break from the tour since basically taking over Mexico in March. How have you been spending the past month? Answer: (Laughs) If you can call it a break. I've been taking my kids to doctor's appointments, doing homework with them, but also working on the new wardrobe changes and surprises I have prepared for the North American tour. That all takes some time and preparation and then I also had to prepare for the Met Gala and the (May 6) appearance on Jimmy Fallon, so I haven't had a day off. I'm completely exhausted but at the same time thrilled because I'll soon be reuniting with my fans in America. It's been a long time and it's going to be epic. This is like a renewal of our vows! What do you have to do to prepare to get back on stage again for a two-hour-plus stadium show? I have to rehearse a few days and test everything again from the screens to the music. There are some new additions to the repertoire like 'Underneath Your Clothes.' I know some of my American fans will want to hear the classics other than 'Hips Don't Lie' and 'Whenever, Wherever.' There are a lot of things that are new to this tour, and then I have friends like Alejandro Sanz on the first date in Charlotte and Rauw Alejandro my second night in New York and Wyclef Jean in Charlotte, which will be a one-of-a-kind moment to share the stage with him after so many years. I'm sure fans will love hearing him introduce 'Hips Don't Lie' with 'Shakira, Shakira.' It's hard to believe that song is 20 years old. That's a song that is timeless and performed for every single tour and every single performance. It was one of the first songs that had a reggaeton sound back in the day when it was a niche thing to do. I remember having discovered this groove from Puerto Rico and I started playing with it and decided to build a track on that (rhythmic) pattern. I never knew that years later it would have such an impact. You said whenthat you used it to transform pain into productivity. Does playing live also give you a feeling of catharsis, because on stage you always look like you're totally enraptured in the music. I am. There's no way out because the audience is right there and they are so immersed in the music and the connection is undeniable. The emotions we feel every night from joy, moments when we sing and dance and celebrate to moments where I see people emotional and crying and remembering moments in their own life. It's more than a concert. It's not about my ego. It's a community and a union and a dialogue between the audience and an artist that has dedicated her entire life to making music that has been the soundtrack to their lives. I feel this identification that is truly unique. I've never seen more loyal, more militant fans. They protect me against anyone and lift me up when I need them the most. More: Lorde is back with 2025 tour: How to get tickets to Ultrasound tour You're decades into a career and still setting milestones. You're the first Latin female act to headline these stadiums in Charlotte and Boston and San Diego and you just broke Taylor Swift's record at the stadium in Mexico City. Is it all a bit surreal? Mexico City was crazy. We did seven nights and we're going back and will make it 11. I never expected anything like that. It's overwhelming and humbling and insane. It is totally surreal, but I've worked so much on every detail of this show. I'm building the biggest setlist of my career. There are going to be visuals I created, the narrative and the details of them. There are 145 people on this tour to make it happen every night. I've created original music for the transitions in the show, new choreography and arrangements. I have 13 costume changes, so all of what I've learned these years of making music, I feel like this is a recap of that journey. You've been very open with sharing your musical life with your kids. As they get older, has motherhood changed the way you approach your music? Last night I was at the studio and Milán was like, 'Mommy come home, I miss you.' I was in the middle of a really creative moment and was like, 'Sorry guys, I have to go.' I'm not just an artist. I am, first and foremost, a mother and they are my absolute priority in life and they know that. In a way I have less time to accomplish more, but to see them and how musical they are inspires me and I hope I'm showing them how hard you have to work to achieve a result. They are witnesses to how hard I work and how much I give of myself. Do they tell you about new music? They're huge fans of Kendrick Lamar. And the reason I ended up collaborating with Bizarrap in 2023 was because of Milán. He told me you've gotta collaborate with him and I said 'Who is that?' and he was like 'He's the Argentinian god.' He turned my attention to his music and we ended up doing ('Shakira: Bzrp Music Sessions, Vol. 53") together and it was a No. 1 hit. I pick their brains and ask for their opinions on everything I do. They have a good eye and good ears, and they are very demanding (laughs). They give me notes after the shows they come to. They always give me comments like, 'OK, tonight this happened …' When you were first starting, there was a lot of emphasis on 'crossover success' with artists like Ricky Martin and Enrique Iglesias also recording in English to break into the mainstream. What has it been like to see this new generation of Latin stars rewrite that playbook and succeed with all-Spanish music? If you think about it, for me being Colombian and a woman and also singing in Spanish like with 'La Tortura' (in 2005) and having the general market in America playing music in Spanish, that was a real challenge back then. That was one of the few songs that made it of that genre and that's why it's so important for me to have Alejandro (Sanz, who also sings on the track) back with me for opening night. It's going to be a very special moment. This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Shakira says huge tour isn't 'about my ego,' but a love letter to fans
