Shakira draws estimated two million fans to free concert on Rio’s Copacabana Beach

Colombian superstar Shakira performed a free concert on Rio de Janeiro’s Copacabana Beach on Saturday night, attracting an estimated two million fans. The event, part of her ‘Las Mujeres Ya No Lloran’ world tour, turned the iconic beach into a vast dance floor. The show started after 11 pm and featured hits including ‘Hips Don’t Lie’, ‘La Tortura’, ‘La Bicicleta’, and her collaboration ‘BZRP Music Sessions 53/66’. Shakira reflected on her first visit to Brazil three decades ago at the age of 18 and celebrated the resilience of women during the performance. Rio Mayor Eduardo Cavaliere confirmed the attendance figure and praised the event’s success. The concert follows similar large-scale free shows by Madonna and Lady Gaga on the same beach. Organisers highlighted the economic benefits, with estimates suggesting it could generate around 777 million reais for the city through tourism and local spending. Crowds gathered from early morning, with vendors selling food, drinks, and other items. Attendees expressed strong emotional connections to Shakira, citing her representation of Latino strength and cultural ties between Colombia and Brazil. The initiative aims to boost the local economy between major festivals such as Carnival and Saint John’s Day celebrations.