Shakira

To lump Shakira in with the Britneys, Ashlees and Avrils of the world would be to do her an incredible disservice. The Colombian firecracker is a far cry from plastic, label-manufactured talent. Don’t believe me? The Oral Fixation Tour DVD might change your mind. Shakira’s live show blends world beat, Latin rhythms and perfect pop songs like "Whenever, Wherever,” "La Tortura” and "Hips Don’t Lie,” the head-spinning final number, which is a total party, complete with confetti and an appearance by Wyclef Jean. Splashed out in outfits that might have been cast-offs from the set of I Dream Of Jeannie, Shakira isn’t afraid to embrace her inherent camp value with zest and humour. The whole wonderful spectacle is enough to forgive her omission of the amazing, surf-inspired "Objection (Tango).” Shakira is head, shoulders and hips above a vast array of ersatz pop princesses. She can sing. She can dance. She can wail on the guitar. She can connect with her audience. Best of all, there are no lip-synching numbers or body double shenanigans to be found. And that, my friends, is entertainment.