Shakira
Most artists might see a bump in social media follower counts slightly after a new album, but Shakira is instead seeing one before.
The Latin music star is now the most-liked musician on Facebook, the singer announced on her page today (March 21). She's garnered over 86.3 million likes at press time, now edging out the 86.2 million of Rihanna.
In response, the singer made a statement on her page, thanking fans for their support.
"Wow... I was just told I now have the most-followed page on Facebook in the world! I still cannot believe it!" the post reads. "I always wanted to have a lot of friends but never imagined it would be so many... 86 [million]! So humbled, can't thank you guys enough for your support. I feel so fortunate to have you."
She closed the post with, "Giant kiss! Forever thankful," with an accompanying photo of her blowing a kiss to the camera.
The announcement precedes the release of her self-titled new album this Tuesday (March 25). Lead single "Can't Remember to Forget You" -- interestingly featuring the now-No. 2 in Facebook likes in Rihanna -- has peaked at No. 15 on the Hot 100.