Following the exciting announcement of the stadium tour dates for Shakira’s Las Mujeres Ya No Lloran tour, fans in Chicago were left puzzled by the city’s omission from the lineup. Shortly after, however, it was revealed that Shakira would be headlining the Sueños Festival. On Saturday, May 24, the iconic Colombian artist graced the stage, concluding day one of this highly anticipated two-day event held in the picturesque setting of Grant Park, Chicago.

Initially advertised as a two-hour performance beginning at 8 p.m., Shakira took the stage closer to 8:30 p.m. and delivered an electrifying 90-minute set. Following the earlier act by Peso Pluma, which had caused a brief dispersal of the audience, fans gradually returned to the venue, eager to secure the best views for Shakira’s performance. The atmosphere transformed as the main stage lights illuminated the area, enticing more attendees to fill the once-empty spaces surrounding the stage.

The audience for Shakira’s performance was wonderfully diverse, showcasing a multigenerational mix that is particularly significant considering that Sueños Festival primarily attracts a younger crowd, leaning towards Gen Z. Many women proudly honored Shakira’s legacy, sporting her iconic belly-dancing hip belts. Additionally, groups of Colombians waved their national flags, filled with excitement and anticipation to witness their beloved La Loba perform live.

With a radiant smile, Shakira expressed her gratitude and enthusiasm for the evening, addressing the crowd in a delightful mix of English and Spanish. “I was truly looking forward to being with you tonight,” she exclaimed. “This is incredible. This city, wow, I’m in love with this city; it’s so beautiful. Thank you for making me feel at home. There is definitely no better reunion than a she-wolf with her pack. Chicago, tonight, we are one.” Her heartfelt words resonated with the audience, making the night even more special.

While recreating the grandeur of a stadium tour stage within a festival context is undeniably challenging, it is clear that Shakira provided the Chicago fans with a night to remember. Transitioning effortlessly from a shimmering white jumpsuit and large black sunglasses to a sparkling pink dress, the talented “Pies Descalzos” singer captivated the audience right from the start. She unleashed a series of hit tracks, including “Girl Like Me,” “Las de la Intuición,” “Estoy Aquí,” “Inevitable,” “Te Felicito,” “TQG,” and “Don’t Bother.”

Reflecting on her recent challenges, Shakira shared a poignant message with her fans: “These last few years have not been easy for me; nobody is spared from falls. But if I have learned anything, it’s that the fall is not the end but the beginning of a higher flight. We, women, rise a little stronger, a little wiser, every time we fall,” she remarked. This empowering message aligns perfectly with the themes of her Las Mujeres Ya No Lloran era, which draws inspiration from the healing journeys that often follow heartbreak.

Throughout her captivating 90-minute set, Shakira’s mesmerizing dance moves and choreography were on full display, showcasing her unmatched belly-dancing prowess during “Ojos Asi” and her vibrant champeta and calypso footwork during “Waka Waka.” A standout moment was when she revisited her rockera roots, performing “Pies Descalzos, Sueños Blancos” and “Antología,” much to the delight of her fans who cherished these nostalgic tunes.

As the grand finale approached, Shakira delivered the global sensation “Bzrp Music Sessions, Vol. 53,” igniting a wave of enthusiasm among the women in the audience, who sang along at the top of their lungs. This electrifying performance marked an unforgettable reunion between a she-wolf and her loyal pack, leaving everyone exhilarated.

The excitement of Sueños Festival continues on Sunday, May 25, featuring headliners like Grupo Frontera and Don Omar. Meanwhile, Shakira’s Las Mujeres Ya No Lloran tour is set to make its way to Boston, Atlanta, Miami, and Los Angeles in the upcoming months, promising even more incredible performances for her devoted fans.