Colombian pop star Shakira performed for an estimated two million people during a free mega-concert on Rio de Janeiro's Copacabana beach on Saturday night. The event was part of the annual 'Todo Mundo no Rio' festival, a series of large-scale performances designed to boost the local economy.
Rio de Janeiro Mayor Eduardo Cavaliere confirmed the massive crowd size via social media, according to reports from La Tercera and BBC World. However, BBC World noted that a previous analysis by BBC Verify regarding a 2025 Lady Gaga concert at the same location suggested such crowd numbers might be inflated.
A massive production in Rio
The performance featured a 1,500-square-meter stage, which EFE reported as the largest ever constructed for this type of show. Before the singer appeared, a drone display traced her face across the night sky over the beach.
Shakira's set began with a nearly one-hour delay. La Tercera reported that the delay was due to a personal matter involving the artist, noting that she had been informed that her father was ill.
When the four-time Grammy winner finally took the stage, she addressed the crowd in Portuguese. "Hello Brazil. How are you? I can't believe I am here. And to think I arrived when I was 18, dreaming of singing for you. I fell in love with you. Life is magical," Shakira told the audience, according as La Tercera reported.
Musical highlights and economic goals
The concert lasted over two hours and included a repertoire of hits such as "Estoy Aquí," "Waka Waka," and "She Wolf." The performance also featured guest appearances by Brazilian music icons Anitta, Caetano Veloso, and Maria Bethânia.
During the show, Shakira performed the song "Acróstico" via a pre-recorded video that included virtual participation from her children, Milan and Sasha. The event concluded with a fireworks display over the Atlantic Ocean.
Local authorities view these large-scale events as essential for regional growth. According to BBC World, the 'Todo Mundo no Rio' concert was funded by the city to revitalize the local economy, with officials estimating the event would generate approximately R$800 million, or roughly £118 million, for Brazil.
