Shakira Channeled Inner Gazelle While Writing Zootopia 2’s Anthem

Shakira, who voices Gazelle in the Zootopia films, discussed her work on the song “Zoo,” the anthem of Zootopia 2. In a recent interview, the singer-songwriter said that the song was about people relying on one another for support and enjoying the moment. Notably, the Colombian singer previously recorded “Try Everything,” the anthem of the first film.

Shakira wanted Zootopia 2’s anthem to ‘have that universal message’

In a recent interview with Variety, Shakira explained what Zootopia 2’s anthem “Zoo” represented. She said, “We wanted it to have that universal message. These are hectic times, and it’s about stopping and taking a moment to lean on each other and enjoy the moment.”

The singer added that each detail, from “the writing” to “the lyrics,” was created “consciously and carefully.” She further stated, “When I’m writing for ‘Zootopia,’ I try to channel Gazelle and think about the message that lives within the movie, and what the song should represent in the film.”

In addition, the singer said that both the song and Zootopia 2 were timeless. “The morals in this film are timeless, too, and I hope that the song reflects that,” she shared. “As an ambassador of my own culture, I felt that this song was a reflection of that too.”

Shakira co-wrote “Zoo” with Ed Sheeran and Blake Slatkin. The trio also co-produced the song with Alex (A.C.) Castillo. It was released as a digital single on October 10, 2025, and as a music video on November 12, 2025.

Fans can purchase the seven-inch vinyl for “Zoo” via Disney Music Emporium’s official store, where it costs $14.98.

“Zoo” is an upbeat pop song that blends natural and modern Latin tropical sounds with champeta that has urban pop touches. The instrumental portion of the song includes rhythmic Latin-style percussion and chords played on an electric guitar.

The song primarily has English lyrics but also includes some Spanish lyrics. It has also been compared to Shakira’s iconic FIFA track, “Waka Waka (This Time for Africa),” primarily due to its intro and percussion. The singer acknowledged this comparison in an interview with Associated Press at Zootopia 2’s red carpet premiere. She said “Zoo” reminded her of “Waka Waka” as both songs had a “universal sound and message.”

Source: Comingsoon.net