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What do the nicknames ‘El Jefe’ and ‘La Patrona’ mean and what do they have to do with Shakira and Piqué?

Shakira’s new single ‘El Jefe’ could make reference to her ex, Gerard Piqué, by using nicknames... what do they mean and where did they come from?

Shakira accepts the Video Vanguard Award during the 2023 MTV Video Music Awards at the Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey, U.S., September 12, 2023. REUTERS/Brendan Mcdermid
BRENDAN MCDERMIDREUTERS

At the 2023 MTV Video Music Awards, Shakira was recognized as one of the most successful and renowned artists in the music industry. In the middle of the awards ceremony, the Barranquilla artist announced the release of her new single ‘El Jefe,’ featuring the California band Fuerza Regia, known for performing regional Mexican music.

Shakira, known for countless hits including ‘Waka Waka,’ ‘Copa Vacía,’ and ‘Acróstico,’ became the first Latin American to receive the prestigious “Video Vanguard Award,” elevating her to the level of other music giants such as Madonna, David Bowie, and Beyonce.

Shakira’s recognition at the VMAs focused on her success in the music industry and the impact she has had as a reference for women worldwide. The Colombian superstar has inspired a generation of young artists to reach the audiences that Shakira has worked to build over the course of her career.

What do the nicknames ‘El Jefe’ and ‘La Patrona’ have to do with Shakira and Piqué?

After celebrating her well-deserved praise at the award show, the singer has been focused on promoting her new single, which will be released on 20 September. Many speculate that the new song, titled ‘El Jefe’, or the boss in English, will make reference to her ex-partner, former Spanish soccer player Gerard Piqué Bernabéu.

“El Jefe” could be a response to the nickname ‘La Patrona,’ which translates to the landlady in English, given to Shakira by friends of Piqué when they were still in a relationship.