Enrique Iglesias, who initially built his career in secret, without his famous father Julio Iglesias knowing, is now reflecting on his journey. Record executives who gave him his first opportunity were also unaware of his last name.
He debuted in November 1995 at just 20 years old with his first album, Enrique Iglesias, which included singles like "Por amarte" and "Experiencia religiosa." The album sold six million copies and earned him a Grammy.
Now at 50, Iglesias remains youthful and committed to his inner child. "I've learned a lot, but I hope I haven't matured because I want to remain the same immature kid I was when I was 18," he told People magazine shortly after turning 40.
Iglesias has decided to stop releasing albums, focusing instead on singles. This comes after becoming one of the most successful Latin artists, with over 180 million records sold and 154 singles on Billboard charts, according to his official website.
His latest album, described as his last, is titled Enrique Iglesias Final Vol.2 (2024). In an interview, he explained that "the world of music has changed, and it is no longer necessary to release albums in the way we used to conceive them."
This marks the end of his discography, which includes 12 albums, five of them bilingual. Iglesias was a pioneer in combining Spanish and English in his music and in reggaeton-pop, with his hit "Bailando."
His plan is to release songs, like his latest track "Tamos Bien" with Pitbull and IAmChino, and continue touring the world. He also prioritizes his family, residing in Indian Creek, Miami.
Iglesias insists he will never retire from concerts. "Being able to share a moment with my fans and see them sing along with me is very special," he stated.
His most recent concert was on May 3 in Egypt, and his next performance is scheduled for July 5 in Gran Canaria. A childhood trauma impacted his life significantly.
The kidnapping of his grandfather in Spain led Enrique and his siblings to move to Miami with their father, who was at the height of his fame. This resulted in them growing up under intense media scrutiny.
As an adult, Iglesias has strived to maintain his privacy. Little is known about his relationship of over two decades with Anna Kournikova, and they did not publicize the birth of their three children.
However, in recent interviews, Iglesias has shared his happiness in enjoying his children's growth and actively participating in their upbringing. He enjoys taking them to school and watching them grow.
"I'm relaxing, at home with the kids, enjoying being able to take them to school, watching them grow. Every day that passes, they grow so fast, and I want to enjoy it," Iglesias said during his last visit to Spain in November.