Share

Shakira gives Chavez signed, red guitar

Caracas - Colombian pop star Shakira has given Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez an autographed electric guitar that is painted red, the colour of the leader's socialist political movement.

The Grammy award winner and songwriter sent him the instrument after visiting the South American country in March, Chavez said on Sunday and thanked her for the gift.

"I was practicing last night, looking for the plugs. It's electric, a very modern guitar and I'm not used to it," Chavez said during a phone call to a state TV station. "I was singing some songs, old ones, a Mexican one."

Known for his informal style, Chavez often belts out Latin American folk songs during political rallies and speeches.

"How am I going to practice Waka-Waka with this swollen foot?" Chavez asked when an official suggested he sing Shakira's hit song written for last year's World Cup. He ended the call singing a bolero, a slow Latin American song.

Chavez is currently recovering from a knee injury and cancelled visits to several countries this week. He said the injury was improving.

We live in a world where facts and fiction get blurred
Who we choose to trust can have a profound impact on our lives. Join thousands of devoted South Africans who look to News24 to bring them news they can trust every day. As we celebrate 25 years, become a News24 subscriber as we strive to keep you informed, inspired and empowered.
Join News24 today
heading
description
username
Show Comments ()
Editorial feedback and complaints

Contact the public editor with feedback for our journalists, complaints, queries or suggestions about articles on News24.

LEARN MORE