Whenever, wherever—Shakira continues to forge her musical legacy.
The “Hips Don’t Lie” singer was honored at the 2023 MTV Video Music Awards with the Video Vanguard Award, making her the first South American artist to receive the career accolade. (See the complete list of winners here.)
Taking to the stage in a blush pink outfit, Shakira thanked her collaborators and her record label, as well as her two sons Milan, 10 and Sasha, 8.
“I want to thank my parents and my kids, Milan and Sasha, who are here,” she said onstage. “Thank you so much for cheering me up and making me feel like mama can do it all. Especially I want to share this award with my fans who always, always support me through thick and thin. Thank you so much for being my army and helping me fight all my battles.”
The top honor marks Shakira’s fierce return to the VMAs for the first time in 17 years. It also comes amid a career renaissance for the 46-year-old, who has released emotional new songs since her June 2022 split with Gerard Piqué.
One of those songs included the buzzy and record-breaking collab with Bizarrap, titled “Bzrp Music Sessions, Vol. 53,” which appeared to throw shade at Gerard, 36, who is now dating 24-year-old Clara Chia Marti.