Colombian singer Shakira performed a free concert on Copacabana Beach in Rio de Janeiro on Saturday, attracting an estimated crowd of 2 million people, according to the city’s mayor. The event is part of Shakira’s “Las Mujeres Ya No Lloran” (“Women No Longer Cry”) tour, named after her 2024 album.

The show began around 11 p.m. local time, with fans welcoming the artist amid applause and cheers. Skywriting drones above the beach spelled out “I love you Brazil” in Portuguese, adding a visual spectacle to the performance. During her set, Shakira reflected on her early experiences in Brazil, recalling her arrival nearly 30 years ago as an aspiring singer. “I arrived here when I was 18 years old, dreaming about singing for you,” she said. “And now look at this. Life is magical.”

Shakira performed a selection of her hits, including “Hips Don’t Lie,” “La Tortura,” and “La Bicicleta.” In addition to her musical performance, she highlighted themes of female empowerment and resilience. “Us women, every time we fall, we get up a little wiser,” she told the audience.

The concert follows in the footsteps of similar large-scale free performances held on the famous beach, including shows by Madonna earlier this year and Lady Gaga in 2023, both of which also drew substantial crowds. The event underscores Rio de Janeiro’s continuing appeal as a destination for major international artists and public celebrations by the sea.