Shakira Reflects on the Past Year's 'Hardship' and Attending the VMAs With Her Sons (Exclusive)

Shakira, the iconic performer, was bestowed with the prestigious Video Vanguard Award during the 2023 MTV Video Music Awards held on Tuesday, and she had two of her most enthusiastic supporters right there with her!

Accompanied by her sons, Milan (9) and Sasha (7), Shakira expressed her delight at having her boys by her side on this momentous occasion.

"It was absolutely incredible to have my boys supporting me on this big night," Shakira remarked, speaking fondly of Milan and Sasha, her children with her ex, Gerard Piqué. "They are filled with love and care, and they serve as my inspiration to become a better person, especially for them. They truly are the most remarkable part of my life and mean everything to me."

Shakira's Vanguard recognition was marked by an epic performance that spanned her illustrious career. She wowed the audience with a medley of her greatest hits, including "She Wolf," "Objection," and "Whenever, Wherever," engaging in singing, dancing, and even crowd-surfing.

"I could see they were quite entertained and pleasantly surprised," she shared, referring to her sons' reaction to the performance. "Throughout the show, they were non-stop with their encouragement, saying things like, 'Mom, you were incredible!' They are my most enthusiastic cheerleaders."

In addition to her sons and her adoring fanbase, Shakira also found solace and support in her dedicated followers during the past year, which marked the beginning of her journey to rebuild her life following her separation from Piqué after over a decade together.

"I never truly realized the extent to which my fans could sustain me and be there for me in so many meaningful ways," Shakira revealed. "If it weren't for them, I might have experienced much greater sadness, but they provided me with immense motivation and have remained loyal throughout. They've had my back for so many years."

"They never cease to amaze me, and I genuinely believe they are the greatest fans in the world," she added. "I consider myself incredibly fortunate. They are simply extraordinary."

Shakira's fans have much to look forward to in the coming days. Following her Video Vanguard accolade, the singer is gearing up to release a new single next week titled "El Jefe (The Boss)," scheduled for release on Wednesday, September 20.

"You can listen to my last seven songs, and you'll discover a lot about me," the artist noted about her recent releases. "I feel like I've been pouring my heart into these lyrics, especially recently. It's been quite therapeutic, akin to a catharsis."