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Pop queen Shakira back to her roots

2009-03-13T23:29:00.000-07:00

In the face of a decades-long insurgency, the international singing star Shakira has been back to her roots in Colombia to help disadvantaged children get the education they deserve. The BBC's Rajesh Mirchandani went with her.

To travel with multi-million-selling pop star Shakira is to travel behind tinted windows, on private planes and on Shakira time - always at least an hour behind schedule and always stopping for autographs and photos. It involves long waits while she has hair and make-up touch-ups before emerging from cars, planes and buildings.

But at the centre of the superstar entourage is a young Colombian who is disarmingly friendly and passionately eloquent about education.

And education was the reason we travelled with Shakira to the north-west border province of Choco, deep in the Colombian jungle. It is remote and poor.

Shakira at her school in Colombia
Education provides a lifeline to children caught up in civil conflict
And it's an area devastated by the civil conflict that has ravaged the country for nearly half a century, forcing three million Colombians to flee their homes.

We were heading to a school Shakira has funded.

She told me: "One-hundred per cent of our kids that we have in our school here have been displaced or have families that have fled their home towns."

Shakira has been here several times and the reaction is always the same: frenzied rapture. She is surrounded by exuberant children as she makes her way down dirty, pot-holed streets, past wooden shacks and open sewers.

But the welcome she gets is not just because she's a famous pop star. In an area of grinding poverty she provides a lifeline.

Excerpt from http://news.bbc.co.uk

Shakira Live steals the show

2009-01-18T23:00:00.001-08:00

ONE record-breaker being upstaged by another! That was the big story at Tralee Track last weekend when 12-race programmes were run off on both Friday and Saturday nights.

The record-breaker to lose his title was the Abbeydorneyowned Iflookscouldkill, a real specialist over longer distances. In July of last year, Iflookscouldkill set new a new figure of 41.79 for the 750yds trip at the Oakview venue and three weeks later, at Galway, he broke the 810yds record with a run of 45.09.

However, he came up against another long distance star at Tralee last Friday night in Shakira Live, which former Ballyduff hurling star, Chris Houlihan, trains for Sarah Gallagher, of Tarbert. Not surprisingly, these two dominated the betting in what was the ninth race, over 750yds, and magnificent victory belonged to Shakira Live, which had recently carried the Kerry flag with great distinction in the Ted Hegarty Marathon Sweepstake at Harolds Cross.

Victory, not to mind a new record, seemed unlikely for Shakira Live as the race progressed, but she stormed through the field from last place to beat Iflookscouldkill by three lengths in 41.70, which was a hugely impressive nine spots inside the record established by Iflookscouldkill.

It all speaks very highly for the training expertise of Chris Houlihan, who achieved classic success in the 2008 Irish Laurels with Cashen Legend. This record-breaking performance by another of his kennel stars could be the start of another great year for him. The weekend's racing at Tralee featured many outstanding performances. On Friday night, for instance, a novice bitch called Kilkenny Partner flew around in 28.85 and there were further runs of 28.87 and 28.88 by Scarty Rules and Namedandshamed, respectively.

On Saturday night, outstanding doubles were achieved by Vincent McMahon, son of local trainer, Pat McMahon, and by Jeremiah Hanafin, of Ardfert. Vincent McMahon initiated his double with a novice called Send It Izzet, which clocked 29.29 on her debut run, and he completed it with Send It Sally, which produced a run of 28.95 in just her second race. Jeremiah Hanafin struck first with Farran Giggs, a winner over 325yds in 18.20, and he followed up with Farran Els, which won in 29.39.

Another highlight on Saturday night was a runaway victory in 28.89 for the Castleislandowned Marazion Queen, while Gneeveguilla trainer, Ray Fleming, introduced a most promising novice in Your Some Wink, which showed remarkable early foot after a tardy enough break and went around in 29.11.

Tralee Track races again this Friday and Saturday nights, with no Tuesday night racing until February 10. On Saturday night, much interest will centre on televised action from Shelbourne Park, especially on Kerry greyhounds running in second-round heats of the € 30,000 John J Casey Open Sweepstake over 575yds. Particular attention will focus on Tip And Tin, brilliant winner just before Christmas of the Comerford Cakes Sweepstake at Shelbourne Park, and on Headleys Bridge, which gave such a wonderful account of himself in the 2008 Paddy Power Derby.

Tip And Tin produced his trademark finish to win heat 3, while Headleys Bridge finished second in heat 8 to the fastest first-round heat winner, Kilkenny Lonjack, which recently ran in the Greyhound and Petworld Kingdom Derby at Tralee and won a race on final night. The field includes 2008 Paddy Power Derby winner, Shelbourne Aston, which won heat 7, and that is a measure of the challenge faced by both Tip And Tin and Headleys Bridge.

Source:http://www.kerryman.ie/sport

Shakira may perform at Obama's inauguration party

2008-12-19T00:36:00.000-08:00

Superstar singer Shakira is reportedly in talks to perform at U.S. President-elect Barack Obama's inauguration party on January 20.

She may perform at a celebration to be held Obama is formally sworn into office, reports Peruvian newspaper El Comercio.

The paper further states that the Hips Don't Lie hitmaker may join stars including Susan Sarandon, Spike Lee, and Anne Hathaway celebrate Obama's historic White House Victory in Washington, D.

She was a vocal supporter of Obama during his election campaign.

"Obama can restore peace and the world's confidence in the United States," Contactmusic quoted her as telling reporters at the time.

Her faith in Obama was later reciprocated with the Democrat voicing his admiration for the Colombian singer's charity work in aid of Latin American children. (ANI)

Source:http://www.newstrackindia.com/newsdetails

The girl next door

2008-12-04T23:04:00.000-08:00

Lebanese songstress Myriam Fares is undaunted by fame and believes youngsters should always pursue their dreams

“WE SHOULD ALL follow our own paths,” she said, her voice shaking with emotion.

“Most of us try to follow in the footsteps of others - whether they are siblings, parents, or friends - but we never ask ourselves what we want.”

With her big, red curly hair - a refreshing change from the assembly line of typical Lebanese pop stars – Myriam Fares believes that talent and passion are essential for young Arab youth in any facet they choose to follow.

The quintessential ‘girl next door’, she ignited the music world to become a true force in the industry, and is easily one of the most-liked artists to appear in years.

“There is no difference between my stardom and normalcy, because we are one. I am still a down-to-earth girl and fame has not changed me. I don’t walk around with arrogance because I know where I come from and who I am,” she said.

Having recently joined a unique campaign with Sunsilk, Fares is promoting its ‘Life Can’t Wait’ theme, which encourages young girls to chase after what they really want.

“This is bigger than just an advertisement because it speaks directly to young women. It is promoting a positive influence that encourages them to fulfil their dreams and expectations,” she said.

Featured alongside iconic superstars such as Madonna and Shakira, girls are encouraged to write in their own personal inspiring stories to www.lifecantwait.com to win a day spent with Fares.

excerpt from khaleejtimes.

Source:http://www.khaleejtimes.com/CityHome.asp

Shakira Singing With Madonna?

2008-12-04T22:47:00.000-08:00

Rumor is that Shakira may be recording a duet with Madge, soon. So why are the two uniting? Hmmm….perhaps Madonnna wants to get in touch with her baby daddy’s Latin roots?
Need we remind you that the Material Girl’s ex is Carlos Leon? Just in case you didn’t know, Carlos was born in New York, but his parents are Cuban! He and Madonna are the proud parents of Lourdes Maria Ciccone Leon (whew, you KNOW she has to be half-Latin with a name THAT long).

Aside from all their ties to Latin culture, Shakira and Madonna have another thing in common: their “love” for Democratic presidential candidate, Barack Obama. Shakira allegedly said she would vote for Barack if she was a U.S. Citizen. Madonna, on the other hand, has caused quite a lot of controversy by slamming Republican candidate, John McCain, during her “Sweet and Sticky” Tour. Are the singers joining forces to make a jingle for Barack’s campaign? We’ll just have to wait and see what these hip-shaking divas, decide to do!

Source:http://en.terra.com/lifestyle/articles/html

Egyptian Cleric Compares Shakira to a Puta

2008-11-28T00:38:00.001-08:00

Seems like Shakira's hips my not lie pero they still have given her quite a reputation, at least in the eyes of one Egyptian religious leader who said that she is quite the lady of the noche.

An Egyptian cleric assured that (Shakira) “could be a lovely person. Yet beauty is something relative that cannot be found in the butt or legs of a woman, but in her moral values”…

Khaled Al-Gindi said: “it’s like being a prostitute. In this country we respect moral values ahead of the values of a superficial appearance.”

Pero what if you're hot and have good real moral values? Certainly Shakira has done her fair share of community work with her Pies Descalzos foundation and ALAS.

Source:http://vivirlatino.com/2008/

Latin Grammys Backstage Report

2008-11-21T23:03:00.000-08:00

There were a couple of big winners at last night’s Latin Grammy’s ceremony, namely Juanes and Gloria Estefan. You heard their acceptance speeches, now find out what they said backstage.

The night’s big winner was, of course, Juanes, who took home five awards, making him the winner of the most Latin Grammys ever with 17.

For being the big man of the ceremonies, he was very low-key: “I feel happy, very grateful to the music, to God, to the Academy," he said. "When you see Jose Feliciano, Santana or Gloria Estefan onstage, you realize how much there is left to do. At the same time, you’re happy because so much is being done, Café Tacuba and other people are doing incredible things.”

What’s next for Juanes? “The next thing for me is a long vacation. We’ve been on tour for a long, long time.”

Source:http://blogs.houstonpress.com/rocks/2008

Shakira Rings in New Year in Abu Dhabi!

2008-11-16T21:35:00.000-08:00

Shakira's concert last year in Dubai was a blast and it was the event to be at! I think that maybe those who have attended her concert are still talking about it!
Well, Shakira is coming your way in Abu Dhabi and for a very special occasion; ringing in the New Year 2009!
Shakira will be holding the last concert of 2008 and the first for 2009 in Abu Dhabi at the Emirates Palace.
It's going to be one heck of an extravaganza that will include amazing fireworks and big international DJ sets!
What better way to welcome the New Year that with Shakira?!

Source: http://www.waleg.com/celebrities/archives/014228.html

Now Hear This

2008-11-10T01:06:00.000-08:00

"Rosa Parks sat so Martin Luther King could walk, and Martin walked so Obama could run. Obama is running so we all can fly, so let's fly." -- Rapper Jay-Z, getting out the vote for Democratic presidential nominee Barack Obama.

"It's overwhelming, and quite hard to take in.... Even an old dog like me has a few more surprises in life, I guess." -- ACDC singer Brian Johnson, after learning that his group had 2008's second-biggest album debut with Black Ice.

"Yes, I have plans, but not yet. I'm pregnant with my songs. But someday, yes." -- Colombian pop star Shakira, when asked whether her foundation work on behalf of Latin American children has made her want to become a mother.

"There are more Baldwin brothers than that." -- Actor Ryan Reynolds, on the 537 votes that determined the 2000 presidential election.

"This is really something no one can really deal with, and you never fully recover from something like this. But she's a very strong person, and she's got a great heart, and I'm just sad something like this has had to enter into her life." -- Harvey Mason, who has written and produced songs for Jennifer Hudson, on the killing spree in Chicago that claimed the lives of her mother, brother and 7-year-old nephew.

Source:http://www2.journalnow.com/content/

Shakira presents youth plan to LatAm leaders

2008-11-03T21:11:00.000-08:00

Latin American leaders attending an Ibero-American summit in El Salvador Friday signed agreements to fight poverty among young people after being called to do so by Colombian pop star Shakira.

Shakira's plans to fight poverty initially were the main theme of the summit, but was made second priority, because of the current financial crisis hitting economies worldwide.

The singer, who was also present at the meeting, wanted to keep the children on the agenda, despite the world's financial crisis and presented her plan for a food, health and education project for some 22 million poor children aged under six in Latin America.

"The lives of children are more important than banking institutions and politics," she said.

"We know that in this world financial crisis, hunger will spread in the poorest layers of our society and thousands of children risk dying from hunger," Shakira added.

Source: http://colombiareports.com/colombian-news

Shakira loves Barack Obama, but is Scarlett Johansson jealous?

2008-10-22T02:49:00.000-07:00

The Latin pop star known for her hip shimmy, Shakira, heartily endorses Barack Obama, even though she can’t vote because she's not a U.S. citizen.

And she gets his personal thank you?

According to Latingossip, Shakira released the following statement.

Scarlettjohansson“If I could vote, I would vote for Barack Obama because I think that he is the person that can bring the world the true American message. I feel in my heart that he would be able to reconstruct peace and confidence in the United States.”

The site also says that Obama graciously thanked her and said: “It is an honor to receive the support of someone who is so talented and generous.”

Wow. All Scarlett Johansson got for her hearty endorsement was an “I never emailed that actress” from Obama’s camp.
Maybe Barack needs the Latin vote more than he needs the voluptuous white actress vote.
What do you think?

Source:http://latimesblogs.latimes.com/thedishrag

Shakira endorses Barack Obama

2008-10-08T04:22:00.000-07:00

She can’t vote, but that didn’t stop Colombian pop star Shakira from throwing her support behind Democratic presidential candidate Barack Obama Thursday.

“If I could vote, I would vote for Barack Obama because I think that he is the person that can bring the world the true American message,” she said, according to the Associated Press.

Then the top-selling singer – who was recently described by Bill Clinton as “a young Colombian woman who loves her country, who doesn't want it overrun by the narco-traffickers and the guerrillas who support them.” – reached a little deeper.

“I feel in my heart that he would be able to reconstruct peace and confidence in the United States, a country that he appreciates profoundly."

Returning to political analysis, Shakira opined that Obama’s family background could be an advantage against his opponent John McCain.

No polls were available indicating whether her endorsement gave the young Illinois senator a bounce among ex-patriot Colombians.

Shakira, con Live Nation contratto da 70 milioni di dollari?

2008-07-31T01:39:00.001-07:00

Circolano già le cifre del contratto “a 360 gradi” (dischi, concerti e merchandising) che la star colombiana potrebbe siglare entro fine anno con Live Nation: 70 milioni di dollari, secondo il New York Post, anche se dall’entourage dell’artista qualcuno ribatte cheShakira vale decisamente di più, considerato il successo delle sue produzioni discografiche (oltre 50 milioni di copie vendute nel mondo, “Hips don’t lie” al primo posto delle classifiche americane) e delle sue esibizioni dal vivo (l’ “Oral fixation tour”, organizzato dalla stessa Live Nation, avrebbe incassato più di 100 milioni di dollari).

La trentunenne artista, sotto contratto con la Epic (Sony BMG), deve alla casa discografica ancora due album di studio, uno in inglese e uno in spagnolo, e un greatest hits.

news source : http://www.rockol.it/

Shakira flies to France

2008-07-20T23:11:00.000-07:00

Shakira has flown to Paris to meet Ingrid Betancourt, a Colombian captive who's just been freed. The singer was the first celebrity to celebrate the rescue of captives who were held by the revolutionaries in Colombia. Supporting the cause, Shakira met the former Colombian presidential candidate at the Hotel Meurice in Paris, on Wednesday.

In her former statement, Shakira has been quoted as calling the rescue of the hostages "a historic day for all of us, for this country that has suffered a lot." The singer added, "What a proud day to be Colombian!"

news source : http://www.ndtvmusic.com/

Shakira pledges to continue fight for hostages' freedom

2008-07-14T22:33:00.000-07:00

Washington (ANI): Colombian singer Shakira has vowed to carry on the fight to free hostages that are being held in her native Colombia. The pop superstar, who has been named as the Queen of Spanish music, praised the recent rescue of 15 captives from the Fuerzas Armadas Revolucionarias de Colombia (FARC).

After the release of the captives, who had been held for six years, Shakira spoke out that the fight against terrorism in the country is far from over. The singer along with other Latin music stars including Alejandro Sanz, Miguel Bose, Juanes, and Carlos Vives, pledged in an open letter to the former hostages that the fight will go on until all the captives who are currently being held are given their freedom.

"We will continue until we see all of them free. Our eyes and lips will not rest until we see and kiss those who remain captives of those without conscience," Contactmusic quoted the singers as having written.

news source : http://entertainment.oneindia.in/

Singer Shakira joins Live Nation

2008-07-07T03:30:00.000-07:00

Pop star Shakira has signed a deal with global concert promoter Live Nation, her US spokesman has confirmed. It gives the company rights to all the Columbian singer's music-related projects - including new albums, tours, merchandise, websites and films. The 31-year-old, who has had hits with Hips Don't Lie and Beautiful Liar, follows Madonna, U2 and Jay-Z, who have signed similar deals with the firm. US reports say the deal is worth between $70m and $100m (£35m to £50m).

Shakira still had two studio albums and a greatest hits collection to deliver under her old contract with Sony BMG. Neither Shakira's spokesman nor Live Nation could confirm whether she would still have to fulfil this deal. However, the touring element and other aspects of the Live Nation agreement will begin immediately. Her signing comes only a few days after Live Nation's chairman, Michael Cohl, stepped down after a dispute over the company's strategy of signing high-profile artists to similar "360-degree" deals. Shakira has sold over 50 million albums worldwide and had four top 10 UK hits. Earlier this year business magazine Forbes listed her as the fourth richest female musician in the world banking $38m (£19.2m) between June 2006 and June 2007. Only Madonna, Barbra Streisand and Celine Dion were ranked ahead of the singer.

news source : http://news.bbc.co.uk/

Rush, Babyface, Shakira to get Walk of Fame stars

2008-06-30T02:53:00.000-07:00

The Hollywood Chamber of Commerce has announced its list of the 25 famous names who'll get stars on the Walk of Fame next year, and in addition to the usual array of actors (Hugh Jackman, Cameron Diaz, Kyra Sedgwick, Robert Downey Jr., Felicity Huffman and hubby William H. Macy), a token director (hooray for Tim Burton!) and one fictional character (Tinkerbell), there's a number of pop and rock and soul figures whose names will soon be trampled upon by tourists from all over the world.

Among them: veteran Canadian power-trio Rush, R&B stalwart Babyface, Colombian sexpot Shakira, saxophonist Dave Koz, Motown legends the Miracles (Smokey Robinson already has his star), John Stamos (OK, that doesn't count ... but he did play with the Beach Boys for a time) ... and the Village People. But that list got me wondering: What other music stars have received this sidewalk honor?

news source : http://media.www.ecollegetimes.com/

Young Girlz to face Nicaragua

2008-06-25T00:27:00.000-07:00

Jamaica's national under-20 women's team will look to end their World Cup qualification series in Mexico on a high when they take on Nicaragua Saturday in their final group ‘B' match. The Reggae Girlz went down to identical 3-1 defeats to Costa Rica and Canada respectively and will be playing for pride when they meet fellow win less team Nicaragua. Shakira Duncan scored both of Jamaica's goals and has come in for praise from Coach Xavier Gilbert.

"She did well for our team ... she was our main weapon and we're pleased with her two goals. It's unfortunate that she didn't get anymore but she created some good opportunities and gave the Canadians trouble up front," he said. Coach Gilbert said they will be going all out for a win in their final game. "We just want to leave the competition on a high note ... make the Jamaica, parents and all the supporters of Jamaica's female programme happy and of course the Girlz are upbeat and looking forward to giving their best in the game on Saturday," he said.

news source : http://www.radiojamaica.com/

Juneteenth queen named

2008-06-17T02:54:00.000-07:00

Kelli Minister of Kennewick was named queen of the Juneteenth Pageant on Saturday night at the Pasco High School auditorium. She was given a $3,000 scholarship. The first runner-up was Shanice Butts of Pasco. She received a $1,500 scholarship. The second runner-up was Shatarra DeVose of Pasco, who received $700; and the third runner-up wasShakira Pointer of Kennewick, who got $500.

The Best Talent, highest grade-point average and Miss Congeniality awards went to DeVose. The Hostess Award (to the girl raising the most money for the pageant) went to Butts and Minister, who each raised more than $1,500 for the pageant.

news source : http://www.tri-cityherald.com/

Shakira and Ricky hold charity concert

2008-06-03T02:31:00.001-07:00

London (ANI): A host of Latin celebrities including the likes of Shakira and Ricky Martin are doing their share of charity by performing at two fund raising concerts to highlight the plight of some 32m Latin American children living in poverty. The concerts will be held in the two Buenos Aires and Mexico City and will be attended by many thousands of viewers.

The proceeds of the two events, being held simultaneously in Argentina and Mexico, will be going to the Latin America in Solidarity Action (Alas) charity. EarlierShakira revealed that she had managed to get 200m dollars in donations from Mexican and US tycoons Carlos Slim and Howard Buffett and said that the eradication of poverty was "doable."

While Slim is the telecommunications magnate, Howard Buffet is the eldest son of the US investment guru, Warren Buffett. "Imagine what Latin America could achieve if we invest in developing the potential of these children," BBC quotedShakira , as saying earlier this week. She added: "The funny thing is that Latin America produces three times what it needs to feed its population. So, it is doable, we can really eradicate poverty." It was in 2006 that Alas was launched for dealing with poverty that kills an estimated 350,000 children each year in Latin America.

news source : http://entertainment.oneindia.in/

Latin stars hold charity concerts

2008-05-27T02:58:00.000-07:00

Buenos Aires and Mexico City are hosting two fundraising concerts to highlight the plight of some 32m Latin American children living in poverty. Dozens of Spanish-speaking pop stars, including Shakira and Ricky Martin, are performing at the two events being held simultaneously in Argentina and Mexico. Proceeds will go to the Latin America in Solidarity Action (Alas) charity.

Shakira said earlier she had secured $200m in donations from Mexican and US tycoons Carlos Slim and Howard Buffett. Mr Slim is the telecommunications magnate, while Howard Buffet is the eldest son of the US investment guru, Warren Buffett. "Imagine what Latin America could achieve if we invest in developing the potential of these children," Shakira said earlier this week.

"The funny thing is that Latin America produces three times what it needs to feed its population. So, it is doable, we can really eradicate poverty," the Colombian singer said. Alas was launched in 2006 to tackle poverty that kills an estimated 350,000 children each year in Latin America.

news source : http://news.bbc.co.uk/

Healthy lungs 'secret to healthy brain' in kids

2008-05-22T02:04:00.000-07:00

New York (PTI) Healthy lungs is the secret to smarter brains in kids, according to a new study. Previous studies have linked lung function to mental acuity in middle-aged and older adults and there is evidence that the respiratory and neurological systems are influenced by some of the same factors during childhood.

Now, a team at Harvard University has found that healthy lungs in children increase their memory, learning and intelligence, the media reported on wednesday. The researchers, led by DrShakira Franco Suglia, came to the conclusion after examining data on 165 children who had been followed since birth.

At the age of six, the children had their lung function tested. At nine, they completed standard tests of memory, learning ability and intelligence. The researchers found that for each increase in the children's lung-function performance, there was actually a corresponding increase in their cognitive-test scores. The link remained even when they took into consideration factors that could be related to both lung function and cognitive abilities in children, like asthma, and exposure to lead or parents' smoking.

"Although it remains unclear just how pulmonary function influences cognitive outcomes, a growing literature suggests possible mechanisms and supports the argument for biological plausibility," Dr Franco Suglia said. More studies are required to delve into the connection between children's lung function and their brain function, according to the researchers. The results of the study have been published in the 'Psychosomatic Medicine' journal.

news source : http://www.hindu.com/

POLE DANCING

2008-05-13T01:44:00.000-07:00

Ever wanted to channel your inner Shakira or Beyonce with those sexy moves and grooves? Viva Vertical specialises in exotic dance and fitness training, helping ladies of all ages to have fun, get comfortable with their bodies and burn some calories simultaneously.

Made up of trainers and dancers from the US and UK, Viva Vertical is also a member of the Asian Pole Federation. This Mother’s Day, they will be conducting a special DuoPole Class just for you and your mom.

Students who bring their mothers are welcome to join a class for only RM40 per person. Non-students would have to pay RM50 as registration fees. But it sure beats giving her yet another cheesy Best Mum In The World mug!

news source : http://thestar.com.my/

Fabulous Report: Santo Versace's office, Justin Timberlake's scent, Shakira's beauty line, Cate Blanchett's makeup

2008-05-06T01:50:00.000-07:00

Santo Versace won a seat in Italy's parliament last month. The older brother of Donatella and the late Gianni is now a member of the State Chamber, but maybe not for long. Politico talk has it that Santo is already favored for a cabinet post in Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi's administration.

Santo was the power-behind-the-glittery-throne at the house of Versace. He ran the business side from the beginning in the '70s, which is most likely why he says he can't give up fashion totally, even though he has declared he's no dilettante in Parliament. Perhaps he plans on extending the dynasty through his daughter Francesca, who graduated two years ago from Central Saint Martins design school in London and is already causing a stir as a designer-to-watch. Santo's entrance into the political arena mirrors heiress and former model Carla Bruni's ascension from catwalk queen to becoming first lady of France with her marriage to La Prez Nicolas Sarkozy.

Shakira joins Antonio Banderas at the Barcelona-based Puig Beauty & Fashion Group. Banderas has a very successful fragrance line while plans for Grammy-winningShakira include her own line of beauty products, scents and personal care products. Puig also owns scents from Carolina Herrera, Paco Rabanne and Nina Ricci.

news source : http://www.sun-sentinel.com/

Shakira talks education-for-all with British PM

2008-04-28T00:16:00.000-07:00

LONDON (AFP) — British Prime Minister Gordon Brown held talks with Shakira on Monday, winning widespread praise from the sultry singer that he probably wishes could rub off on members of his ruling Labour Party. Colombia's biggest-selling pop star, famous for songs like "Hips Don't Lie" and "Whenever, Wherever", applauded thepremier for having "wonderful intentions" and being "very smart" and "brave".

Her comments came during a conference call by the Global Campaign for Education, that also featured World Bank president Robert Zoellick, about the need to achieve universal education by 2015 -- a key UN pledge. "I think he (Brown) is a man with wonderful intentions and who is also very pro-active and who has been working very hard for this issue of education," the singer -- also a UNICEF goodwill ambassador -- told reporters.

"I applaud his work and applaud the fact that he is brave enough to talk to celebrities like me... I think we are all on the same boat trying to get to the same shore, and trying to provide education for all children in the world."

news source : http://afp.google.com/

Shakira's backing Brown in bid to improve Third World schooling

2008-04-24T00:02:00.000-07:00

Singer Shakira could become an ambassador in Gordon Brown's bid to boost global education. The Colombian star is an avid campaigner to improve Third World schooling.

Yesterday she praised Mr Brown's plan to have education for all by 2015. Shakira said: "He has wonderful intentions and is pro-active. He has been working hard for education."

The singer spoke after telephone talks with the PM, who is also due to hold a food summit in Downing Street today to plan international action to try to cut spiralling worldwide food prices.

To ease the problem, Mr Brown wants to add to pressure on oil-producing countries to increase supply and cut prices - which yesterday reached a new high above $117 a barrel.

news source : http://www.mirror.co.uk/

PM to talk education with Shakira

2008-04-18T02:35:00.000-07:00

Gordon Brown will discuss how to boost Third World education with pop star Shakira next week. The Prime Minister is due to hold telephone talks with the sultry Latin singer - whose hits include Hips Don't Lie - on Monday.

The virtual meeting is the latest in a string of showbiz encounters for the notoriously dour Mr Brown. Last week a slick-haired premier appeared on hit TV show American Idol to espouse the cause of eradicating malaria. He was also recently pictured grinning alongside Hollywood actor George Clooney after they mulled over the Darfur crisis in Downing Street.

Monday's event is one of a series organised by the Global Campaign for Education to highlight a pledge by world leaders that every child will have access to quality primary education by 2015. Some 72 million children are still missing out, according to the coalition of charities and teaching unions.

On Wednesday, hundreds of schools around the UK are set to take part in the World's Biggest Lesson, which will see pupils from 120 countries taught the same subject simultaneously. International Development Secretary Douglas Alexander is expected to attend a lesson in north London.

news source : http://ukpress.google.com/

Shakira In Uruguay

2008-03-28T01:58:00.000-07:00

These pictures of Shakira in Uruguay are from a week ago, but I haven’t seen them anywhere so I thought I’d post for all the Shakira fans out there :) She looks beautiful as always!

And speaking of Shakira, did you hear about the auction she did to raise money for her charity Pies Descalzos (Bare Feet)? She sold off her clothes to bidders and managed to raise $76,000. One of her bra’s alone raised $3,000! But the highest bid was for VIP tickets to her concert in Toronto, plus a meet and greet with the singer herself. It went for $14,000. How much would you pay to meet your favorite celebrity?!?

news source : http://www.imnotobsessed.com/

Shakira shakes it up

2008-03-24T01:38:00.000-07:00

POP diva Shakira has given her home crowd a taste of her latest album Oral Fixation before heading to New York for its worldwide release. "My music cannot be classified as typically Latina," she said. "Sometimes I have used bits of our culture, as in the song Suerte (Luck), with some Andean instruments, but La Tortura (Torture) has a lot of us in it."

La Tortura, already released as a single, has pushed fellow Colombian Juanes from the No.1 spot of the Billboard Latin music charts. The Lebanese-Colombian star said she does not see the recent worldwide success of many Colombian musicians as cause for rivalry. "I admire Juanes and Carlos Vives," the 28-year-old said. "I like Soraya and Los Aterciopelados," she said.

"Colombian music is recognised around the world, which makes me proud," she said. Shakira's first album in two years includes a duo with Spaniard Alejandro Sanz. It will be released in 60 countries including Australia on June 7.

news source : http://www.news.com.au/

Shakira's Bra Sells For 3,000 Dollars

2008-03-14T03:31:00.000-07:00

A Shakira fan has forked out a massive $3,000 for a Roberto Cavalli designed bra which once supported her “small and humble” breasts.

The pop star is personally auctioning off various items in her wardrobe to raise funds for the charity Bare Feet Foundation, which is currently building schools for poor children in Shakira’s native Colombia.

Shakira has raised in excess of $60,000 so far, with the highest bid coming from a fan who paid $14,100 just to meet her.

Other items that have been sold include a purple wig and Gibson guitar used in the video for ‘Las De La Intuicion’ which went for $3,301, and a turquoise dress for $1,076. The auction closes this Sunday.

news source : http://www.gigwise.com/

Shakira to front beauty line

2008-03-08T02:13:00.000-08:00

Pop star Shakira has signed a deal to front a line of beauty and personal care products.

The Columbian singer has joined forces with Puig Beauty & Fashion Group, a leading company in the Spanish purfume market.

Puig has previously developed successful perfumes fronted by actor Antonio Banderas.

Shakira said: "I am very excited to be able to express myself through another creative medium.

"My feeling is that personal care and beauty should be effortless and accessible for everyone."

Meanwhile, the singer has continued to do her work for good causes by recently selling some of her personal belongings on eBay for her children's charity.

news source : http://itn.co.uk/

Shakira to design beauty product range

2008-03-03T00:28:00.000-08:00

Shakira is to launch her own perfume as well as a range of beauty and personal care products, it has been announced. The Colombian songstress has teamed up with Puig Beauty & Fashion Group - the firm behind popular fragrances from Nina Ricci and Paco Rabanne - to create a line of products "produced with and inspired by" her.

Commenting on her new project, Shakira said: "I am very excited to be able to express myself through another creative medium. "My feeling is that personal care and beauty should be effortless and accessible for everyone." Her as-yet-unnamed product range will add further to the singer's hectic schedule.

As well as recording hits such as Hips Don't Lie and Beautiful Liar, Shakira is committed to a range of organisations which aim to improve the lives of children across the world, including Latin American anti-poverty campaign Alas.

She has also won a prestigious humanitarian award from the United Nations for founding children's charity the Barefoot Foundation and is a goodwill ambassador for Unicef.

news source : http://www.lovelyshakira.com/

USA women reach goal

2008-02-28T20:10:00.000-08:00

By CASSANDRA TAYLOR: South Alabama secured a first-round home game in the Sun Belt Conference women's tournament with a 55-50 win over New Orleans Wednesday night at the Mitchell Center. Shakira Nettles scored a career-high 22 points for the Jags (18-10, 9-8).

"It's a tremendous relief to know that we don't have to make any travel arrangements," South Alabama coach Rick Pietri said. "Now, the only preference I have is to get as high a seed as we can. ... As we sit here today, we're sitting at No. 6 with the potential, with a little help, of moving up to No. 5."

The first-round Sun Belt tournament games will be played on campus sites Wednesday. Afterward, the tournament proper will be staged at the Mitchell Center March 8-11. The Jags jumped to a 21-9 lead, with Nettles scoring 10 of the points. "We knew how big this game was for the opening round of the tournament as well as positioning overall," Nettles said. "Defensively, we had a lot of energy, and as for my game, I just had fun."

Pietri praised Nettles' performance. "Shakira had a great night," he said. "She was the primary defender on (New Orleans' leading scorer) Le'Della English and managed to hold her to only 9 points. "Offensively, she made plays for us and finished plays around the goal."

South Alabama led 34-27 at halftime and built a 12-point lead before the Privateers closed the gap. "I thought at times we looked really good," Pietri said. "For the most part, we were able to turn turnovers into points. We also made some really good reads in the half-court offense."

news source : http://www.al.com/

Shakira clothing auction raises money for poor children in Colombia

2008-02-16T00:20:00.000-08:00

A Shakira fan forked over US$3,000 (€2,060) to buy a bra once worn by the Colombian singer, while another paid US$14,000 (€9,630) for front-row seats and the privilege of meeting the hip-shaking star.

The two bids were among the highest on 40 items Shakira donated to an Internet auction that has raised US$76,000 (€52,280) for her Bare Feet Foundation, which is building a school for poor children in northern Colombia.

"We had bidders from 10 countries," Eric Gazin, president of the firm Auction Cause which hosted the sale, told The Associated Press on Tuesday.

Another popular item was a shiny lavender skirt with turquoise and coral beading that Shakira wore while singing "Hips Don't Lie," during her "Oral Fixation" tour. The skirt fetched more than US$1,000 (€690).

Still up for grabs until Sunday are an electric Fender guitar and an acoustic Taylor guitar, both bearing Shakira's autograph.

news source : http://www.iht.com/

Buy Shakira's Clothes

2008-02-08T02:48:00.000-08:00

Reckon your hips might lie if you put on a pop star's skirt? Well, Shakira's going to let you find out. The big-hearted star is auctioning off a large part of her wardrobe for charidee. Yup, Shakira is offering up more than 40 costumes from her 2007 Oral Fixation tour.

The variously wild and wonderful outfits can be bartered for by you, me and Joe the public on eBay's Giving Work website. Among the hip-swivelling items being flogged by the singer are a lavender skirt with coral beads and a low-cut red frock with billowing sleeves.

Oh, and if a blue tank top with the slogan "For Those Who Love To Rock" is just what you're looking for, you'll also be a happy bunny. But get there quick - the auction ends on 10th February, and we reckon all these Sharika-worn numbers will be snapped up in a matter of web-space seconds.

The bidding is said to have attracted interest from all over the world.All profits will go to Shakira's Bare Feet Foundation, a project based around building a school in the singer's native Columbia.

news source : http://showbiz.sky.com/

DVD REVIEW: Shakira: barefoot on her 'Oral Fixation Tour

2007-12-05T02:18:00.000-08:00

I have to admit that when I heard about Shakira's new DVD/CD release, "Oral Fixation Tour," (Epic), I wondered what the point was. After all, the original album was released more than two years ago, and memories of her "Hips Don't Lie" duet with Wyclef Jean have been eclipsed by the sordid pop spectacle of "A Shot of Love With Tila Tequila."

But watching this beautifully shot, sonically spectacular live performance is a great way of restoring your faith in the sprawling pop concert. No one in the world seems to be having more fun than Shakira. She prances around barefoot like a child playing to her parents in her living room, wielding a microphone like a cheerleader's baton, blowing on a harmonica as if she were Bob Dylan, jamming with her shimmering blue guitar like Jimmy Page.

When Alejandro Sanz hits the stage for their duet, "La Tortura," she rolls out the hip-and-torso gyrations that transcend language and spread her fame throughout the known universe. Sanz's gruff exhortations have never sounded better and it seems they've played it together so much they should briefly form a band and record an album's worth of material.

Following "La Tortura," some dancers come out to perform a brief ballet interlude set to Erik Satie's "Trois Gymnopedies," an indication of why Shakira's grand idea of pop still works - unlike Madonna, she never gave up on Modernism. Shrouded in amber light, she emerges in a flowing red dress to perform "No," a song about letting a deep love go at the ripe old age of 26. The song climaxes and she extends her dress so wide it engulfs her, as if she were a rose swallowing itself.

"Oral Fixation Tour" also features a couple of extras, most notably the mini-documentaries "Around the World in 397 Days" and "Barefoot." The former is a better-than-average tour diary, but the latter is unexpectedly moving. A kind of public service announcement for her Pies Descalzos (Barefoot) Foundation, it narrates Shakira's involvement in constructing a school for impoverished children near her hometown of Barranquilla, Colombia.

"Colombia has the second-highest amount of refugee displacement in the world, behind Sudan," she says, in the video, and continues to rattle off difficult truths. She is shown rehearsing with Barranquilla's salsa legend Joe Arroyo, singing along in a version of "No Le Pege a la Negra" (Don't Hit My Black Woman). This time you wonder when she's going to start a salsa band.

Then of course, there is that version of "Hips Don't Lie." Closeups of teenage girls and couples mouthing the lyrics give way to Wyclef in a red sport jacket and a straw fedora. Nine dancers in saris sway behind Shakira, creating the illusion she has the many arms of the Hindu goddess Shiva. Reggaeton rhythms flow neatly into cumbia rhythms and red and white confetti fills the screen. What at first seemed like repetition had me calling for an encore.

News source : http://www.kansascity.com/

Shakira is in no rush to marry

2007-11-26T01:58:00.000-08:00

The ‘Hips Don’t Lie’ singer, who has been engaged to Argentine lawyer Antonio de la Rua for around six years, is madly in love and happy with her relationship just the way it is.

Shakira said: “We’ll get married eventually, or we won’t, but we’re together and that’s what matters. We love each other and we want to stay like that. Why fix something that’s not broken?” The 30-year-old Columbian star says her fiancé is her first priority, and she will always put love before her career.

Shakira, who performed at the premiere of new film Love in the Time of Cholera in Las Vegas recently, added to a magazine: “Love is my primary nourishment. I think that nothing else in life, not even your career or music — well, what I’m saying is a bold statement — I think that nothing can substitute love as the propelling force of everyone’s lives.

It’s number one on my list of priorities, of course.” Shakira wrote three songs for Love in the Time of Cholera. The movie, which tells the story of a 50-year love triangle during the late 19th century, is based on the novel by Columbian writer Gabriel García Márquez.

Her performance raised money for her Fundación Pies Descalzos (Bare Feet Foundation), which promotes educational development in Colombia.

news source : http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/

Shakira

2007-11-06T22:25:00.000-08:00

After achieving superstardom throughout Latin America, Colombian-born Shakira became Latin pop's biggest female crossover artist since Jennifer Lopez broke down the doors to
English-language success. Noted for her aggressive, rock-influenced approach, Shakira maintained an extraordinary degree of creative control over her music, especially for a female artist. She wrote or co-wrote nearly all of her own material, and in the process gained a reputation as one of Latin music's most ambitiously poetic lyricists. When she released her first English material in late 2001, she became an instant pop sensation, thanks to her quirky poetic sense and video image.

Shakira Mebarak (full name: Shakira Isabel Mebarak Ripoll) was born February 2, 1977, in Barranquilla, Colombia, into a poor family. Her mother was a native Colombian and her father was of Lebanese descent, and so as a child Shakira soaked up music from both cultures. She also listened heavily to English-language rock-and-roll, listing her favorite bands in later interviews as Led Zeppelin, The Beatles, The Police, The Cure, and Nirvana. Shakira wrote her first song at age eight, began entering (and winning) talent competitions at age 10, and started learning the guitar at age 11. One story runs that around this age, she was kicked out of her school choir for singing too forcefully.

In 1990, at age 13, Shakira moved to Bogotá in hopes of pursuing a modeling career, but wound up signing a record deal with Sony's Colombian division instead. Her 1991 debut album, "Magia (Magic)," was comprised of songs she'd written over the past five or six years, including some of her earliest efforts. Although it didn't break internationally, the record started to make a name for her in her home country. Dissatisfied with the pop inclinations of the follow-up, 1993's "Peligro (Danger)," Shakira changed direction for a time, joining the cast of the Colombian soap opera "El Oasis" in 1994.

When Shakira returned to recording in 1995, she asserted more control over the direction of her music, and worked more rock-and-roll rhythms -- as well as occasional Arabic tinges -- into her Latin pop material. The first result was "Pies Descalzos (Bare Feet)," which was initially released in 1995. A slow seller at first, the album gradually caught on, thanks to the rock-tinged single "Estoy Aqui," which became a hit all over Latin America, as well as Spain. After that breakthrough, "Pies Descalzos" just kept spinning off singles: "Dónde Estás Corazón?," "Antología," "Pienso en Ti," and "Un Poco de Amor." The album hit number one in eight different countries, and eventually went platinum in the U.S. as well. Shakira toured for nearly two years promoting it (she finally left "El Oasis" in 1997).

Seeking to build on her success, Shakira signed Emilio Estefan -- Gloria's husband and a highly successful music-biz insider -- as her manager and producer. The move paid off when her follow-up album, 1998's "Dónde Están los Ladrones? (Where Are the Thieves?)," became an even bigger worldwide hit than its predecessor. What was more, it cracked the lucrative U.S. market wide open, spending 11 weeks at number one on Billboard's Latin album chart and producing two U.S. number ones (on the Latin chart) with "Ciega, Sordomuda" and "Tu." The album's signature track, however, was the worldwide hit "Ojos Así," her most explicit nod yet to the Arabic music she'd picked up from her father. "Dónde Están los Ladrones?" was also the most effective presentation yet of Shakira's strong-willed persona. Her self-analysis made her even more popular among female fans, while her anger over love gone wrong drew comparisons to Alanis Morissette.

When Gloria Estefan offered to translate "Ojos Así" into English, the prospect of a crossover suddenly seemed tangible, and Shakira decided that the most effective way to maintain control over her material was to learn English well enough to write in it herself. In the meantime, she set the stage for her crossover bid with a performance on "MTV Unplugged," the channel's first Spanish-language broadcast. "MTV Unplugged" was released as an album in early 2000, and topped the Latin charts for two weeks on its way to becoming her third straight platinum album. It also won a Grammy for Best Latin Pop Album. At the inaugural Latin Grammy Awards ceremony in 2000, Shakira delivered a much-discussed, show-stopping performance of "Ojos Así," and took home Unplugged-related trophies for Best Female Pop Vocal ("Ojos Así") and Best Female Rock Vocal ("Octavo Dia").

Mainstream pop stardom beckoned. Shakira dyed her long brown hair blonde, romanced Antonio de la Rua (son of the former president of Argentina), and went to work on her first (mostly) English-language album, "Laundry Service." The single/video "Whenever, Wherever" was released in advance of the album in late 2001, and made her a star in the English-speaking world almost overnight. "Laundry Service" entered the American pop charts at number three, and "Whenever, Wherever" climbed into the Top Ten of the singles chart, peaking at number six. Less than a year after its release, "Laundry Service" had gone triple platinum. Reviews of "Laundry Service" were divided as to the effectiveness of Shakira's English lyrics, but nearly all agreed on her unique poetic imagery.

Extensive touring to support "Laundry Service" led to a long break for the singer, so a remix collection (2002's "Laundry Service: Washed and Dried") and a live album (2004's "Live & Off the Record") appeared in lieu of a new album. Revitalized, Shakira began the writing process for her next release, and soon had 60 songs ready to go, some in English, some in Spanish. Twenty of the songs were selected and divided up by language to make two different albums. Both appeared in 2005, and both hit the Top Ten, with the Spanish-language album "Fijacion Oral, Vol. 1" leading the way in June with a number four placing, and the English-language album "Oral Fixation, Vol. 2" following in November at number five.

source from : http://kids.yahoo.com/music/artist/10114--Shakira/bio

Shakira Gets a Little 'Oral Fixation' on Blu-ray

2007-11-05T22:53:00.000-08:00

Pop superstar Shakira is bringing her 'Oral Fixation Tour' to high-def in a hip-shaking new Blu-ray release due this December.

After being witnessed by over 2 million people in 36 countries, Sony BMG will debut 'Shakira: The Oral Fixation Tour' on Blu-ray December 18. Captured by nearly a dozen high-def cameras, the complete 16-track setlist features such worldwide hits as "Whenever, Wherever," "Underneath Your Clothes" and "Hips Don't Lie" (featuring a guest appearance by Wyclef Jean).
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Bonus features are set to include the "Barefoot" documentary, an additional "Around the World in 397 Days" featurette, three music videos, and six bonus audio-only tracks.

Tech specs boast 1080p/AVC MPEG-4 video and three flavors of audio: uncompressed PCM 5.1 surround and 2.0 stereo, and a standard Dolby Digital 5.1 track.

Sony has set suggested retail for the Blu-ray at $24.98.

You'll find disc details for 'Shakira: The Oral Fixation Tour' linked from our Blu-ray Release Schedule, where it is indexed under December 18.

News Source : http://www.highdefdigest.com/news/