El Dorado

"El Dorado" marks Shakira's eleventh studio album, released on May 26, 2017, by Sony Music Latin. Following her tenth album and the birth of her second child, Shakira initially faced writer's block and career uncertainties. However, her collaboration on "La Bicicleta" with Carlos Vives reignited her musical inspiration.

The album, predominantly in Spanish with three English songs, draws heavily from Shakira's personal life and her relationship with Gerard Piqué. Produced by a mix of longtime collaborator Luis Fernando Ochoa and new producers like Supa Dups, Rude Boyz, and The Arcade, "El Dorado" blends Latin pop and reggaeton with influences from bachata, vallenato, cumbia, salsa, hip-hop, R&B, trap, and electropop. The album features vocal collaborations with Maluma (twice), Nicky Jam, Carlos Vives, Prince Royce, Black M, and Magic!.

"El Dorado" explores themes of love, resilience, and personal growth, showcasing Shakira's versatility across diverse musical genres while reflecting her journey through life's ups and downs.

TRACKLIST:

1. Me Enamoré

2. Nada

3. Chantaje (feat. Maluma)

4. When a Woman

5. Amarillo

6. Perro Fiel (feat. Nicky Jam)

7. Trap (feat. Maluma)

8. Comme moi (with Black M)

9. Coconut Tree

10. La Bicicleta (with Carlos Vives)

11. Deja vu (with Prince Royce)

12. What We Said (Comme moi English version, with Magic!)

The album kicks off with "Me Enamoré" ("I Fell in Love"), a lively pop track infused with electronica and featuring a digitally-stuttered lyrical style. It chronicles Shakira's unexpected romance with Gerard Piqué, vividly capturing their instant connection, even likening her love to a moment of climbing trees. Following this is "Nada" ("Nothing"), a powerful pop rock ballad delving into themes of loneliness and longing for a loved one. It showcases Shakira's signature galloping rhythm, reminiscent of her earlier hits like "Poem to a Horse" and "Empire," as noted by Rolling Stone. "Chantaje" ("Blackmail"), a duet with Maluma, shifts gears into electronic reggaeton territory. The song explores a playful chase between a lustful man and an unattainable woman. Shakira intentionally flips the narrative, portraying the woman as assertive and carefree, a departure from traditional portrayals of female vulnerability in songs. "When a Woman," the first English track, is an electronic pop song featuring synths and upbeat rhythms. It delves into the complexities of a passionate romance that simultaneously hurts and exhilarates. "Amarillo" ("Yellow") follows as a Europop anthem with lyrics drawing parallels between Shakira's emotions and colors. The chorus is likened to a Disney-esque melody, offering a whimsical yet introspective view on love, sometimes hinting at spiritual themes. "Perro Fiel" ("Faithful Dog"), a pop-reggaeton collaboration with Nicky Jam, explores the tension and struggle of resisting mutual attraction. It slows down the tempo compared to similar hits like Enrique Iglesias' "Duele el Corazón," offering a more introspective take on desire. "Trap," Shakira's second duet with Maluma, is a whispery ballad blending Spanish-language pop with R&B trap beats. It delves into themes of heartbreak and the allure of casual relationships, accentuated by Maluma's electro-tinged vocals. "Coconut Tree," the album's second English track, channels the vibe of Australian synthpop. Its midtempo, guitar-driven folk sound expresses Shakira's yearning for a personal escape, highlighting her versatility across genres. Closing the album is "Toneladas" ("Tons"), a poignant piano ballad that speaks of unconditional love. It serves as a heartfelt conclusion to "El Dorado," showcasing Shakira's ability to deliver emotive lyrics with a profound personal touch.