Shakira Candidly Answers If She's Happy After Gerard Piqué Split: 'I Can't Say I'm Part of the Club'

Shakira, the 46-year-old singer, has been open and candid about her life following her separation from Gerard Piqué, addressing the challenges she faces as a single mother while balancing her pop star career. In a recent interview for Billboard's latest issue, Shakira discussed how her life has transformed both personally and professionally since her move from Barcelona, Spain, to Miami, Florida earlier this year.

In Europe, her career was her "third priority" as she had dedicated much of her life to caring for her children and partner. Now, residing full-time in the U.S., Shakira finds herself with easier access to collaborators and professional resources, allowing her to release music more swiftly. However, she acknowledges that being a single mom and maintaining the pace of a pop star can be challenging. She describes her daily routine as a constant juggle between putting her kids to bed, heading to the recording studio, and striving to be a present mom while also earning a living.

When asked if she's happy in the interview, Shakira responds with depth, stating, "It's a very short question for a very long answer." She expresses that she doesn't believe happiness is accessible to everyone and doesn't feel like she's part of that exclusive club at this moment. She acknowledges that there are moments of happiness, distraction, reflection, but also moments of nostalgia, and her current music draws inspiration from this mix of emotions.

Despite personal challenges, Shakira is achieving significant milestones in her career. She recently received the Video Vanguard Award at the Video Music Awards, becoming the first South American artist to earn this honor. She is also a top nominee at the upcoming Latin GRAMMY Awards.

Shakira candidly shares her deep desire to have raised her sons with their father, Gerard Piqué, and to grow old together. She acknowledges that her dream has not materialized but remains motivated by her children.

Reflecting on her personal struggles, Shakira notes that she has discovered her own strength over the years. She admits to being a "true drama queen" in the past, citing an incident where she broke her tooth while on The Voice in 2012. In those days, she would become inconsolable over minor issues, but maturity and facing difficult circumstances have given her a new perspective and empathy for others.

Shakira and Gerard Piqué share two sons, Milan Piqué Mebarak, 9, and Sasha Piqué Mebarak, 7, who continue to be a source of inspiration and motivation for her. The interview reveals Shakira's deep love and appreciation for her children and how they bring out the best in her.

Shakira also expresses gratitude for her dedicated fan base, who have supported her throughout her career and especially during the past year as she rebuilt her life post-separation. She credits her fans for providing her with strength and loyalty, describing them as the best fans in the world.

Shakira's latest single, "El Jefe (The Boss)," was released recently, and she views her music as a form of therapeutic catharsis, with her soul poured into the lyrics.