Shakira Welcomes Baby Boy

Latin crossover sensation Shakira and boyfriend, Gerard Piqué, welcomed their first son into the world on January 22nd.

The proud couple, who were in Piqué's hometown of Barcelona, Spain for the baby's arrival, have named their bundle of joy Milan Piqué Mebarak.

In a joint announcement on the singer's website, the new parents shared:

We are happy to announce the birth of Milan Piqué Mebarak, son of Shakira Mebarak and Gerard Piqué, born January 22nd at 9:36pm, in Barcelona, Spain.

The name Milan (pronounced MEE-lahn), means dear, loving and gracious in Slavic; in Ancient Roman, eager and laborious; and in Sanskrit, unification.

Just like his father, baby Milan became a member of FC Barcelona at birth.

Baby Milan weighed approximately 6 lbs., 6 oz., and the hospital confirms both mother and child are doing well.

Outlets ignited when Shakira hinted at the impending birth on her Twitter account, asking for fans' prayers "on this very important day".

Earlier this month, the couple released an initmate picture on the soccer star's social media sites, along with an invitation to their baby shower.

The Colombian popstar, shown wearing only a bikini top and a low-rise bottom, was photographed with her very shirtless (very sexy!) boyfriend, cradling her growing belly. The image served as a message to their fans, inviting them to join in on the festivities by donating to UNICEF. The stars, who are expecting their bundle of joy in a few months, are asking for donations in lieu of gifts on their Shakira & Gerard Pique's World Baby Shower site. Donations will be going towards helping children and families suffering from preventable diseases, and include gifts such as "UNICEF Inspired Gift [like] polio vaccines, therapeutic food, rehydration salts and more - to celebrate the occasion."

Shakira's style evolution throughout the years

Shakira showing her pregnant belly wearing a satin gown
Shakira showing her pregnant belly wearing a satin gown


Those who choose to become "UNICEF Champions" by spreading the word of the event can earn points towards prizes like Shakira CD's and DVD's and FC Barcelona shirts and footballs.

The singer announced her pregnancy in a statement back in September 2012, and the parents had some fun with the press, claiming the birth of their child as part of a practical joke.

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