Place of Birth: Barranquilla, Colombia Mother: Nidia Ripoll Father: William Mebarak She's a sizzling superstar that has set the music world on its ear with a spin cycle of hits. And rest assured that this Latin Grammy winner is poised to clean up at future awards events! After balking at adopting a career filled with traditional commercial hits, Shakira secured chart dominance with a unique pop and rock mix, all the while living up to her name, which means "woman full of grace" in Arabic. She has performed for the Pope at the Vatican, and the Colombian government even appointed Shakira as an official goodwill ambassador. Her current dominance of North American pop charts further proves that the singer is following the motto of her song title by rising up to any challenge "Whenever, Wherever." Fast Facts About Shakira : Born Shakira Mebarak Ripoll in Barranquilla, Colombia. Heavily influenced by Arabic writings of Lebanese father, who was a jeweler and writer. Emerged victorious in local and national talent contests by age of 10. Signed Sony record deal by age 13; subsequently released debut CD "Magia (Magic)." Graduated from high school at age 15. Breakthrough recording: "Pies Descalzos"; sold four million copies worldwide. Appeared on cover of Time Magazine's "Era of the Rockera" issue. Earned honor of Latin Female Artist of the Year at World Music Awards in Monaco, 2001. Discography 1991 - MAGIA 1993 - PELIGRO 1996 - PIES DESCALZOS 1997 - THE REMIXES 1998 - DONDE ESTAN LOS LADRONES? 2000 - MTV UNPLUGGED 2001 - LAUNDRY SERVICE