Shakira Makes History as First Recipient of the Billboard Global Touring Icon Award
Colombian singer Shakira continues to solidify her place as one of the most influential global artists. On November 3, she was honored with the inaugural Billboard Global Touring Icon Award during the Billboard Live Music Summit in Los Angeles.
This award recognizes performers with a lasting and significant impact on the worldwide live entertainment industry. Shakira stands as the first Latina artist to receive this prestigious distinction.
Recognition and Achievement
The award was presented by Marty Hom, her tour manager and a prominent figure in the international music scene. Billboard emphasized Shakira's overwhelming success with her Las Mujeres Ya No Lloran World Tour, which became the highest-grossing Latin tour ever by a female artist, marking a milestone in the global music arena.
Shakira's Reaction
Although Shakira did not attend the ceremony in Los Angeles, she received the news while rehearsing for a concert in Cali, Colombia—her first return to the city in two decades. Sharing her feelings in a message, she said:
“I never thought, not even in my wildest dreams, that I would fill every stadium. It’s incredible and inspiring at the same time; I feel like I’m just beginning my career, and it’s crazy because it’s been 30 years. … This has been the best tour of my life — just as we dreamed it.”
Summary
Shakira’s groundbreaking achievements highlight her enduring influence as a global touring icon and a trailblazer for Latin artists worldwide.