Bangkok: Colombian artist Shakira made history by performing a free concert on Copacabana Beach in front of a massive crowd of approximately two million people. The event, held on Saturday night, marked one of the largest performances of her career.
According to Thai News Agency, the concert surpassed Madonna's 2024 record of 1.6 million attendees and closely approached Lady Gaga's 2025 crowd of 2.1 million attendees. The stage for Shakira's performance measured 1,500 square meters and reached a height of 56 meters, making it the largest ever used by a world-class artist at the venue. Drones added to the spectacle by forming the shape of a "She-Wolf" and displaying the message "I love you Brazil" in the sky.
Shakira's setlist included songs from her new album as well as popular hits such as Hips Don't Lie, Whenever, Wherever, and Waka Waka. The performance also featured a collaboration with legendary Brazilian artist Gaetano Veloso on the song O Leozinho, which was met with enthusiastic cheers from the audience.
Security was a priority for the event, with Rio authorities deploying nearly 8,000 police officers. These officers were equipped with facial recognition technology and surveillance drones to maintain safety along the beaches. Meanwhile, local vendors capitalized on the event by selling souvenirs such as t-shirts and small glass bottles labeled "Shakira's Tears," a nod to her latest album and tour.
The concert is expected to significantly boost Rio's local economy, with projections estimating an impact of more than US$160 million (approximately 5.2 billion baht) through tourism, hospitality, and transportation. Reports indicate an 80% increase in flights to Rio this week compared to the same period last year, with many fans camping overnight on the beaches to secure prime viewing spots.
This performance was part of the annual Todo Mundo no Rio festival and is included in Shakira's world tour promoting her 2024 album Las Mujeres Ya No Lloran, which explores themes of women's resilience and strength.