I think my dad is the only Arabic descendent who is an unsuccessful businessman.
I consider myself a laborer, building my career brick over brick under the sun.
I have always loved performing.
In this life, to earn your place you have to fight for it.
Writing in English was a major challenge. I didn't want other songwriters to write for me. I wanted to preserve the spirit of my songs in Spanish. I am the same Shakira in English as I am in Spanish.
I consider myself a survivor more than anything else.