
Shakira
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Shakira Fixates On Latin GRAMMY History: For The Record
After the mega-crossover success of her 2001 English-speaking album, Laundry Service, it seemed logical to assume Shakira would attempt a similar effort for her follow-up. Instead, the Colombian singer/songwriter wanted to go back to her roots with a Spanish-language Latin pop project.
For The Record: Shakira
That instinct to be the right call, while adding proof that her fans are willing to follow Shakira "Whenever, Wherever" her career takes her.
Released in June 2005, Fijación Oral Vol. 1 was a milestone for the Colombian singer/songwriter. Executive produced by GRAMMY winner Rick Rubin, the album spawned four Latin singles chart hits, including "La Tortura" featuring Alejandro Sanz, which also hit the Billboard Hot 100.
With sales in excess of 157,000 in its first week, Fijación Oral Vol. 1 landed at No. 4 on the Billboard 200, constituting the highest debut for a full-length Spanish-language album in the chart's history — a record that still stands. The album has been certified 11-times platinum (Latin) by the RIAA.
At the 7th Latin GRAMMY Awards in 2006, "La Tortura" earned Record and Song Of The Year and Best Short Form Video honors. And the LP won Best Female Pop Vocal Album and Album Of The Year, topping Gustavo Cerati (a contributor on Fijación Oral Vol. 1), Chayanne, Leon Gieco, and Julieta Venegas.
Making her victory even sweeter, Shakira became the first female artist — and lone to date — to capture the coveted Latin GRAMMY for Album Of The Year.