Thursday, December 12, 2013

2014 Tour Dates

February-

5- Panama City, Panama
8- Puerto Ordaz, Venezuela
14- Valencia, Venezuela
16- Caracas, Venezuela
22- Miami, Florida
25- Clearwater, Florida
28- Naples, Florida

March-

2- Jacksonville, Florida
27- Highland, California
28- Scottsdale, Arizona
29- Alburquerque, New Mexico


April-
10- Valley Center, California
11- Reno, Nevada
12- West Wendover, Nevada
24- New York City, New York
26- North Bethesada, Maryland
27- Newark, New Jersey
29- Red Bank, New Jersey


May-

2- Mashantucket, CT
3- Atlantic City, NJ
13- London, England
29- Montreal, Canada
30- Toronto, Canada
31- Windsor, Canada



Source: julioiglesias.com

Thursday, November 21, 2013

Julio returns to Carnegie Hall in New York

Julio Iglesias returns to Carnegie Hall for the first time in 25 years for a one-night-only performance, on April 24. This concert is part of the Medal of Excellence Gala, honoring legendary fashion icon and philanthropist Oscar de la Renta.



Friday, November 15, 2013

Julio Iglesias still speaks the language of love


Julio Iglesias still speaks the language of love

11/12/2013 21:38

Don’t be surprised if Julio Iglesias soon applies for Israeli citizenship. The celebrated romantic crooner has spent more time in the country than most Knesset members, with two sold-out shows at the Caesaria Amphitheater in August, following similar events in 2009 and 2011, and a return engagement scheduled for November 24 at the Hechal Hatarbut in Tel Aviv.

And according to the 70-year-old romantic balladeer, he’d have no problem immigrating under the Law of Return. Iglesias told his Tel Aviv audience in 2009 that his mother was of Jewish heritage and he was Jewish “from the waist up.” And in a talk with The Jerusalem Post last week from him home in Indian Creek Island, Florida, the native of Madrid, Spain, while not elaborating on that hint of a Jewish ritual not performed, elaborated on his family’s Jewish background.

“I’ve known my whole life about my family’s Jewish past, there were lots of conversations in my house about the Inquisition and about Sephardim,” said Iglesias in heavily accented English. “My mother’s name – de la Cueva y Perignat – was a very Jewish name.”

Iglesias added that he proudly proclaimed his Jewish heritage wherever he goes, and that in turn, he feels strengthened by it, especially when he visits Israel.

“The world understands that Jews are a race that use their customs and character to make the world a better place. And when I’m in Israel, I see something completely unique taking place. I see a very strong Jewish country and I see Spanish Jews, Russians, Argentineans all with one motivation – to keep Israel safe. And that touches my heart.”

Iglesias, the prototype dark, Latin ladies’ man, has himself been touching hearts since releasing his first album in the late 1960s, after an injury from a traffic accident forced him to give up his burgeoning career as a goalkeeper for Real Madrid.

“It’s a good thing that happened, because if I hadn’t had that accident, I wouldn’t be talking to you today. I wasn’t a very good football player, and I would have probably ended up being a lawyer, but I probably would have closer to being a liar,” Iglesias said, breaking out in a boisterous guffaw.

Instead, he became one of the most successful singers of the past half century, with over 300 million albums sold in 14 languages and the Guinness Book of World Records crown as “the biggest selling Latin artist in the world.”

His duets with singers ranging from Frank Sinatra to Willie Nelson to Placido Domingo have become things of legend, and the population growth in countries where he appears on his stillbusy touring schedule spike around nine months after his concerts.

That’s actually not a scientific fact, but an educated guess, because Iglesias and his velvety voice are known to melt listeners and create a seductive atmosphere. As he enters his 70s, the singer admitted that he has to work at his craft more to stay on top of his game.

“I’ve never been a guy with a big voice, so I need to take care of it and myself,” he said.

“Imagine me at 250 pounds and no hair, it just wouldn’t work. But it’s a joy to take care of myself, eating right and exercising. Because, as you get older, being onstage is not so easy. Ask Phil Collins, or Elton John or Paul McCartney, they will tell you.”

Given his mega-success as well as varied and lucrative business interests that would allow him to never work another day in his life, it’s puzzling why the father of eight would even consider heading out on the road anymore. (In addition to his superstar chip-off-the-old-block son Enrique Iglesias from his first marriage, Iglesias has five children, including a six-year-old, with Dutch ex-model Miranda Rijnsburger).

But as he explained, when you’ve been a performer for as long as he has, it becomes part of your reason to get up in the morning.

“I’m tied up most of the time with my various businesses, and for me, to sing is my freedom. It’s the way my blood runs through my body,” said Iglesias.

“You can have problems with your family, you can feel every day of your 70 years, and you go out onstage and you feel like you’re 25. It’s amazing.”

While Iglesias had just finished a 10-day stint in the studio recording 50 songs, he said that he far prefers the immediacy of performing before an audience. And thanks to updated technology, he claimed that his songs sound clearer live than on tape.

“I travel with probably the two best sound engineers in the world, and it doesn’t matter if I’m playing for 3,000 or 30,000 people, the sound is always amazing – it’s better than a studio recording.”

“And even more important, the relationship between the audience and the artist is something very special and strong that can’t be captured in the studio.”

Despite his old-school ethic (all the sounds from the stage come from him or his nine-piece band) Iglesias said he understands the modern phenomenon of pop stars using playbacks and lip-synching as part of their show, as Rihanna recently did in Tel Aviv.

“Performers today dance and move around a lot, and I agree that it’s impossible to sing well when you’re moving,” he said. “Jumping around like that makes it impossible to breathe, and I understand that young audiences and performers want to see the spectacle, including the dancing – they want a show.”

With Iglesias, however, his presence and his voice is the show, no dancing or jumping around required. And the fact that he’s been asked back to perform in Israel only a few months after his summer shows is evidence that he’s doing something right.

“When I’m invited to come back to perform someplace, like I have been to Israel, it’s an amazing privilege for me,” he said. “The people of Israel have given me the opportunity to come back to their country.”

“I was just talking to [tennis star] Rafael Nadal about this – how champions cannot live without passion,” he said. “In Tel Aviv, I’m going to give my passion to the people, because it’s the only way they’ll come back to see you again. Without passion, you don’t have anything.” 


(Source:  http://www.jpost.com/Arts-and-Culture/Arts/Julio-Iglesias-still-speaks-the-language-of-love-331514 )

Thursday, October 24, 2013

New Interview (from Romania)





(Source: YouTube)

Wednesday, September 25, 2013

Hola! Magazine

(Source: hola.com)

New US 2014 Tour Dates

(Source: facebook.com/JulioIglesias)

"Billboard" celebrates Julio's 70th Birthday

Julio Iglesias turns 70 today (Sept. 23), and pop music's archetypal Latin lover is still busy romancing fans around the world.

Julio Iglesias turns 70 today (Sept. 23), and pop music's archetypal Latin lover is still busy romancing fans around the world. The first U.S. date on his current international tour will be at Miami's American Airlines Arena next February. He goes to Romania next month, and will finish up the year with concerts in Indonesia and Hong Kong.

Iglesias made this year's Guinness Book of World Records. Citing sales of 300 million albums in 14 languages, Guinness named him "the biggest selling Latin artist in the world," including him in the book for the second time. His albums have sold a total of 5.3 million copies in the United States, according to Nielsen Soundscan.

While no other U.S. dates have been announced as yet, tickets for Iglesias' Feb. 22 show in Miami are now on sale.

We celebrate Julio's birthday by remembering a few of his most enduring songs:

"La Vida Sigue Igual"
The song that started it all for the former soccer player and law school grad: the then-unknown Iglesias won the 1968 Benidorm International Song Contest with "La Vida Sigue Igual." Here a young -- and barely tan -- Julio sings a live big band arrangement of his first hit, complete with a string section. Without the dramatic synthesized accompaniment that has become his trademark, his easy vocal delivery paired with a shy smile are testament to his early seduction of massive (mostly female) audiences.

"Gwendolyne"Catch Julio on the soccer field in footage of Franco-era Madrid in the intro to this video from the 1970 Eurovision song contest, his first big TV appearance. Although the singer finished 4th in the competition, this song about his love affair at age 20 with a French girl went to no. 1 in Spain. 

"Hey"
The title track of Iglesias' 1980 album is perhaps his most memorable song of all time, ushering in the sweeping chords and warbling voice that have defined his career.

"To All the Girls I've Loved Before"
Willie Nelson's vocals overpowered Julio's in this performance of the hit duet at FarmAid II in Austin in 1986, where the Spaniard's preppy ensemble of double breasted blazer, button down and boat shoes seemed a bit, well, foreign, at the all-American event - even if he was wearing red, white and blue. Despite a struggle with his in-ear monitor, Iglesias smiled through it, seductive as ever.

Saturday, September 7, 2013

"Y Anque Te Haga Calor" Alternate Version (YouTube Video/Song)



 An alternate version of "Y Antque Te Haga Calor" from the album "Calor"

(Source: YouTube)

Sunday, September 1, 2013

Julio in Amman

Julio Iglesias’ live performance Thursday at the Amman Citadel confirmed one more time the enduring appeal of Latin romantic tunes; even more so when delivered by a great, charming voice such as his. 

The celebrated Spanish crooner had no trouble getting to the hearts of an audience estimated at more than 3,500 — a rather exceptional number at the Citadel. 

All elements came nicely together to create a wonderful, most entertaining atmosphere and a delightful evening. 

The highly professional accompanying musicians, the three backing vocal singers/dancers, the smart choice of songs and the quality of the sound, all blended naturally with the unique, distinguished voice of the great Iglesias to mesmerise the audience. 

Few artists are as effective as Iglesias at singing romantic songs. Suffice it to see the reaction of the female part of the audience; clearly the majority that night. 

 Singing mainly in Spanish — understandably the language that suits him best — but also very well in English and by moments in French or Italian, Iglesias sailed with ease and genuine grace from “Amor” to “A medialuz”. “Natalie” was interpreted with the superb melody of the Russian folk song, “Dark eyes”. 

On the French side, Iglesias did three covers of well-known songs: “Ne me quitte pas” (Jacques Brel), “J’aioublié de vivre" (Johnny Hallyday) and “Mamy blue” (Nicoletta). Other covers like “Caruso” (in Italian), “Always on my mind”, “My way”, “Crazy”, “Careless whispers”, “Falling in love with you” and “Fragile” came nicely to complement Iglesias’ usual Latin repertoire. 

Tango music was particularly well represented with “La Cumparsita” and “A media Luz”, not only with the crooner’s fine singing, but also with first-class tango dancing by an elegant couple. 

Iglesias managed to win the audience's participation on many an occasion and must have been happy to see how many knew the lyrics of his songs. He delighted with his voice, his talent and with his stage presence. All the familiar traits were there, including the way Iglesias tends to close his eyes almost all the time when singing, as if in deep introspection. 

Prior to the concert, Iglesias said he was looking forward to performing “at one of Jordan’s most prestigious archaeological sites, the Amman Citadel". 

 "And I can't wait to meet the Jordanian audience. See you, my friends, on August 22,” a statement from the organisers quoted him as saying. 

With over 300 million album copies sold worldwide, Iglesias is ranked as one of the top-five best-selling artists of all time. Over the course of 45 years in the music business, he received hundreds of globally-acclaimed awards and accolades, and performed in front of more than 60 million fans at 5,000 concerts in 600 cities across the world, according to the statement. 

The entire event was first-class, enhanced by the clear, beautiful summer sky over Amman. It came within the scope of the Amman Citadel Festival, organized by Friends of Jordan Festivals. The festival continues through September 10, with concerts by the Palestine Youth Orchestra and members of the Amman Symphony Orchestra, Jordanian soprano Dima Bawab and the Choir of London, and Lebanese singer and oud player Marcel Khalife.

(Source:  http://www.albawaba.com/entertainment/julio-iglesias-amman-concert-515774)

Saturday, July 20, 2013

"My Sweet Lord" in Rotterdam (June 2013)

(Source: YouTube)

Julio in Portugal

(Source: YouTube)

Friday, June 28, 2013

Julio Iglesias starts his summer concert series in Spain

Merida, Spain, Jun 23 (EFE).- Julio Iglesias filled the ancient Teatro Romano in Merida, Spain, where a devoted crowd sang along with the artist, with the strains of his greatest hits on the weekend.
The singer, currently on a world tour, for the past 11 years had always wanted to return to perform among the magnificent Corinthian columns of the theater, where on Saturday he began his series of summer concerts in Spain that will conclude on Aug. 3 in Marbella, just a few days before he celebrates his 70th birthday.

Iglesias began his tour in Guatemala in February, and - while in Spain - he will perform eight times, namely in Merida, Marbella, Barcelona, Santander, Logroño, Elche, Roquetas de Mar and Ciudad Real.

Some 3,000 fans were in the stands on Saturday, more than half of them non-locals who filled the city's hotels on the weekend.

The singer, who for years has lived in Miami, came close but did not quite manage to achieve a sell-out at the concert, where the least expensive seats - comprising just 10 percent of the available spaces - went for 50 euros ($65.50), while the exclusive and highest-priced "golden tickets" went for 295 euros (about $386.50).

After touring Spain, Iglesias will continue his international tour in Jordan, Mexico, Brazil, India and Australia, as well as other countries.

(Source: GlobalPost)

Monday, June 3, 2013

"Careless Whisper" live in Mexico 2013


Julio performs George Michael's "Careless Whisper" from the "Romantic Classics" album in Mexico.

(Source: YouTube)

Sunday, May 19, 2013

Julio Iglesias returns to Mexico after 3 decades

Mexico City, May 14 (EFE).- Julio Iglesias felt he owed Mexico something for having been 30 years without giving a concert here, so he paid his outstanding debt with affection, moving words, mariachis and his all-time greatest hits.

Iglesias appeared Monday night at Mexico City's National Auditorium before 10,000 people, using a ploy with which he has conquered half the world - becoming one with the country where he happens to be performing, singing in its language and reflecting its customs, saying on this occasion that he could not feel more Mexican.

"I feel Mexican here tonight...I am where I sing and today I am Mexican," the artist said, adding that he has sung Mexican music around the world.

Iglesias kicked off the night with the Mexican number "Amor, Amor, Amor" accompanied by six musicians and three exuberant backup singers.

His repertoire included such legendary tunes as "Un Canto a Galicia," with which he recalled his father and mother, whose genetic input from north and south gave him "a Celtic head and an Andalusian body," Iglesias said.

He sang "Abrazame," "Hey!," "Corazon Parto," "Derroche" and "Me Va, Me Va," followed by words of affection for an audience that gave him the energy to get onstage and give his all.
Singing "Por el Amor de una Mujer," "A Mi Manera" and "Agua Sala," Iglesias wrapped up the concert after almost three hours of music.

Saturday, May 18, 2013

Univision Special

Tune into Univision this Sunday, May 19th at 4pm Eastern / 3pm Central for a special on Julio Iglesias.

Sunday, May 12, 2013

Photo: Julio in Mexico

Julio receives a standing ovation in Mexico this past week.

(Source: julioiglesias.com)

Thursday, May 9, 2013

Julio on Univision

(Source: YouTube / Univision)

Friday, April 26, 2013

Timeless lover - Taipei Times

On Tuesday Julio Iglesias, one of the world’s most romantic crooners, will bring his charm to the Taipei Arena. Iglesias is the ageless Spanish heartthrob who has released 80 albums, selling more than 300 million records over the past four decades. As one of the top five best-selling music artists in history (according to Sony Music), he has conquered fans worldwide with his sultry vocals and sexy persona. 

 “Music is my life,” Iglesias told The Taipei Times in an e-mail interview. “Music is a universal language, which turns into a magic bond between people all over the world.” The concert is part of Iglesias’ 45th anniversary world tour, and will mark his fifth visit to Taiwan. The sex symbol is known for delivering Latin pop, sultry salsa numbers, piano-driven love odes and staggering ballads.

The superstar won a Grammy for his Latin album Un Hombre Solo (A Man Alone) in 1988 and numerous other music awards around the globe. He has performed duets including My Love with Stevie Wonder, All of You with Diana Ross and To All the Girls I’ve Loved Before with Willie Nelson. Iglesias has delivered songs in 14 languages. Asked about his willingness to tackle different languages, he said: “It is not easy, it requires many hours and the patience of a good teacher. But singing the lyrics in people’s mother tongue helps you communicate better with them.” 

The music icon will perform songs from his latest album Numero 1, backed up by a 23-person music team. This release includes all the signature hits from his career but are re-recorded and re-arranged. 

 “I truly believe I sing better now than years ago,” the singer said. “I am sure this will be a very emotional concert. I love you (Taiwan).”

(Source: Taipei Times http://www.taipeitimes.com/News/feat/archives/2013/04/27/2003560814)

Thursday, April 25, 2013

Congratulations Julio!

Julio Iglesias is one of the first five artists who entered the Latin Songwriters Hall of Fame, located in Miami.

The 2013 Latin Songwriters Hall Of Fame inductees have been selected from international nominees in both Performing and Non-Performing Songwriter categories.

On April 23rd, the first awards gala took place in Miami. The inductees received “La Musa” award.

(Source: julioiglesias.com)

Tuesday, April 23, 2013

Interview: "Julio Iglesias is my homeboy"

 
Julio Iglesias is cooler than cool—he’s ice cold (word to Andre 3000). Once we got on the phone with the legendary Spanish crooner, it was as if we were talking to our hip Tio Julio who schools you on love and has done it all . . . twice. Iglesias is truly the most interesting man in the world: he wrestles lions, he kicks Chuck Norris’ ass, and he flirts with your mom every chance he gets—swag!

Here Iglesias talks to us openly about his #1 Greatest Hits Deluxe Edition, which is out today, his tanning tips, oh, and, a special message for all the mothers of the world. Boss!

Do you want to do the interview in Spanish or English? Just be warned my Spanish is a bit shaky.

But why, if your last name is Trivino?

Yes, but Spanish is not my first language, so forgive me.

Spanish is your second language?

Yes, it’s my second language. I was born here but my parents are from Ecuador.

Ecuador? What part, Guayaquil or Quito?

Guayaquil.

I sang there the other say, I sang there about two months ago.

Yeah? Awesome!

I ate two crab legs—huge crab legs! They were absolutely delicious!

Yeah, the seafood there is really good.

Just amazing. So tell me. What do you want me to tell you?

Whatever you want to say!

[Laughs]

Let’s talk about your greatest hits album—there have been many before, so what makes this one different?

This one is an album where I redid everything—the bass, the guitar, the rhythm, the voice. I only kept the atmosphere and mood of previous albums, but I also put new vocals in. When I first started singing, I felt I was bad, and it’s not that I’m perfect now, but I am a little better, so there’s the difference.

[Laughs]. So tell me, after so many years of performing, what do you do to keep it fresh for you?

Jesús, it’s all about passion. How old are you, Jesús?

I am 32 years old.

Still so young. Are you single or married?

I’ve been married for almost six years, and I’ve been working in the field for 12 years.

So you’re a natural! So look, for me, what’s keeping me fresh is passion. Passion for everything. I mean, if I didn’t have passion, I wouldn’t be doing this interview. The passion I have is what keeps me alive and motivated to keep going.

Aside from being one of the greatest singers of all time, you’re also viewed as one of the most legendary Latin sex symbols of all time.

Yup!

So who do you—

You want to know about my sex life?

No, no, no, no — God, no!

[Laughs].

But you’re viewed as—I remember my mother was a huge fan of your singing but probably for something else too [laughs].

Your mother is a lady with beautiful taste!

What does it take to be a sex symbol in your opinion?

You know, sex symbol is bulls--t. What does this symbol mean? I love to sing. Singing is my passion. Everything else pales in comparison. Other than that, I guess I should say that I’m thin. I try to stay fit and healthy. I do a lot of sports, like swimming. But the most important thing in my life is my passion for singing. Think of it like this — in the ‘70s and ‘80s, I was your age, and my passion led me to have already sold millions of records by then.

You’ve recorded in many languages. How do you convey the same suaveness that comes across in your native tongue of Spanish in Chinese?

That’s a good question. First, the most important thing for me is to acknowledge what I’m talking about when I’m singing in Chinese. When I know exactly what I’m talking about phrase by phrase, I can have an actual interpretation and acknowledge what I’m singing. But in any case, for me to sing in Chinese, to sing in Japanese, to sing in Tagalong, or in German — it’s not very easy. The language is so strong, it makes a lot of difficulties for me to pronounce, and it’s very difficult.

What’s been your proudest moment as a father?

You never forget the day that your kid born, when the mommy gives birth to your baby, that’s an amazing day. But you know it’s important for a father to keep being a father throughout his life. I feel that the most important thing is the dedication that you give to being that father figure to your children.

You’re also known for having a great complexion. Do you have any tanning tips you can share?

Well, the sun has always been a good friend of mine, but not these days. I think I’ve been in the sun for too long.

Do any of today’s singers impress you?

My son Enrique. I love my son (laughs).

I knew you were going to say that! Anyone besides Enrique?

I like my son Julio after Enrique (laughs).

No one else?

Justin Timberlake, Bruno Mars and Justin Bieber. I think they’re great!

Do you have any final words for our female readers?

Thank you for your kindness and support, from your fathers, grandparents and especially from your mothers (laughs)!
 
 
(Source: julioiglesias.com)

Beijing Concert Photo

Julio Iglesias performs in Beijing, China as part of his World Tour this week.

(Source: julioiglesias.com)

Beijing Welcomes Julio Iglesias

Twenty years have gone by since his first performance in the Asian giant, but the Chinese never forgot him - the voice of Julio Iglesias, “Huliao” in Mandarin, was heard once more over the weekend in Beijing at a concert where the audience gave itself up to the rhythm and charisma of an artist whose career goes on and on.

The singer’s voice and popular lyrics echoed Sunday through the theater of the Beijing Exhibition Center before more than 2,000 people, an audience he held in the palm of his hand and who “sang” along with the artist on some of his hits and those of other well-known performers.

“He’s a very good singer. It’s the first time I’ve heard him and he reminds me of Spain, a country with passion and with good music and dancing,” Zhou Li Na, who went to see the show, told Efe.

The language in no way hindered Julio from connecting with the audience, with whom he constantly interacted during the almost two-hour concert.

“Thank you China, thank you Beijing,” the artist said on numerous occasions, winning over the audience from the moment he went onstage by dedicating a few words to those hurt by the recent earthquake in Sichuan province.

“This is a difficult day for the Chinese people. The earthquake has changed the lives of thousands of people. My heart, my feelings, my emotions, my praise and my passion go out to those who are suffering,” the 69-year-old singer said.

After three stops in China, Iglesias leaves for Singapore and Taiwan, after which he will return to his own country, Spain, on a tour that has taken him around the world, from Russia to Asia. 

(Source:  http://www.hispanicallyspeakingnews.com/latino-daily-news/details/beijing-welcomes-julio-iglesias/24005/)

Sunday, April 14, 2013

SiriusXM Interview (part 2)



In the second part of the SiriusXM interview, Julio discusses working with Willie Nelson.

(Source: SiriusXM & YouTube)

Friday, April 12, 2013

Julio: 'The artist I like the most is my son Enrique'

The iconic Spanish artist Julio Iglesias - who is currently promoting his latest album of greatest hits, ' 1 - Greatest Hits'- has confessed that the singer likes his son Enrique, and his his first-born son, country singer Julio José Iglesias most in the current musical scene.

"[What I like the most is] my son Enrique, I love him. After Enrique, I like the music of my oldest son Julio José", replied Julio to the question about his favorite artist in an interview with Latina Magazine.

But despite this strong statement, that may have surprised many by the so-called bad relationships between the youngest of Iglesias and his father, the Madrid singer also highlighted the work of other young singers today.

"I like Justin Timberlake, Bruno Mars and Justin Bieber, I think they are just phenomenal!", admitted the vocalist.

His taste for these artists could represent the image that he himself embodies for years: that of a sex symbol; a description that does not convince you because he considers his success with women is not more than the result of the "passion" that the singer feels towards his work.

"Thing of being a sex symbol is a nonsense. I love to sing, it is my passion. Anything else falls short in comparison. Passion is everything an artist, in fact it is what keeps me fresh and in form, which gives me life and helps me to continue later", explained the artist.

Julio knows that to compete in the music industry and continue to Captivate women as it did during its best years, it is important to keep in good physical shape, something that is very conscious.

"I am slim and try to keep in shape and healthy. I practise many sports, including swimming. But the most important thing in my life is my passion for music. Think of it this way: in the 70's and 80's, I was very young and yet my passion took me to sell millions of records all over the world."  It's honest.



(Source: http://www.la-razon.com/la_revista/espectaculos/Julio-Iglesias-artista-gusta-Enrique_0_1812418806.htm)

Iglesias combines 45 years on one album

Julio Iglesias is releasing a new album gathering the biggest hits from his 45-year career, saying that he has "travelled through life, singing with everyone and learning from everyone".

"I've travelled through life," said the artist calmly, adding that he had sung about human concerns.

"It doesn't bother me if I've sung them well or badly; I (interpreted) them and I sang them.
"The negative part of my life, the criticism, the intrigues - I've overcome them."

Thus did the 69-year-old artist summarise his career as one of the 10 best-selling singers in history in an interview with Efe in Miami with an eye towards the April release of his first album since 2006.

"I'm living happily here," he said before travelling to Asia, where he is currently on tour to promote 1: Greatest Hits, which hits the market with recently-recorded versions of some of his most popular numbers.

Overall, Iglesias holds the Guinness record for the Latino artist who has sold the most albums worldwide.

The double album contains 37 songs in Spanish, English, French, Italian and Portuguese, including duos with music greats like Willie Nelson, Sting, Diana Ross, Frank Sinatra, Dolly Parton, Stevie Wonder and Art Garfunkel, among others.

"When you join your voice with an artist like Sinatra or Placido (Domingo), you're fascinated. It's an occasion on which to learn. I've always learned from those who play it better than I," he said, adding that he never feels tired.

"My arms, my legs hurt me, yes, but I don't like to go to sleep. I like to wake up.

"I'm (watching) everything. I deeply live any circumstance that affects daily life."


(Source:  http://au.news.yahoo.com/entertainment/a/-/entertainment/16698124/iglesias-combines-45-years-on-one-album/)

Thursday, April 11, 2013

Julio on ExtraTV



(Source: ExtraTV & YouTube)

Seoul Concert Pictures

Photos from Julio's performance in Seoul, South Korea provided by julioiglesias.com 



(Source: www.facebook.com/julioiglesias)

Dubai Concert Review: "Julio Iglesias gets hearts pounding in Dubai"


Julio Iglesias still has star power at age 70.
Julio Iglesias still has star power at age 70.

Twenty four hours after his much-anticipated one-night-only concert at the Dubai World Trade Centre was called-off at the eleventh hour due to a technical glitch, legendary Latino singer Julio Iglesias stormed back on Friday night to charm the pants off a sell-out crowd with stellar renditions of some of the most beautiful love songs every written.
The Spanish heart-throb, who turns 70 this year, was in fine voice as he relied on his trademark light, lyric tenor and generous use of vibrato to deliver classics like ‘Crazy’, ‘Nathalie’, ‘Je n’ai pas change’, ‘Let It Be Me’, ‘When You Tell Me That Your Love Me’ and ‘To All the Girls I’ve Loved Before’.
With over 300 million albums sold Iglesias has a vast repertoire of music, which would take a lifetime to fully explore. So it was interesting to note that he depended, for the greater part, on his Spanish and French catalogue of hits to entertain his Middle Eastern fans at the two-hour concert.
“Tonight was going to be a very special night, because there are so many different nationalities at this concert,” he told his enthusiastic audience. “Hello to the people from India, Pakistan, the Philippines, Italy, France, Britain, Lebanon and Dubai.
“You are so lucky to be living here in this beautiful city among so many different nationalities. I once passed through Dubai many, many years ago, and somebody told me that one day something special was going to happen to Dubai. And it has, this is one of the most beautiful cities that I have seen.”
Iglesias made admirable use of his charm to keep the audience entertained all night with his infectious humour, illuminating anecdotes and sheer brilliance on the microphone. However, I would have to admit that the sound quality in parts of the Shaikh Rashid Auditorium truly let the singer down on the softer ballads only to be rescued during his trademark up-tempo flamenco-tinged chansons like the seventies hit Mammy Blue that has been covered by the likes of Demis Roussos, Celine Dion and Lara Fabian.

Despite his age Iglesias showed that he can still embrace a melody with a rare tenderness to have the women in his audience swooning in exaltation.
Cries of ‘we love you Julio’ frequently rent the air as male members on the audience made unsuccessful attempts to restrain their partners who seemed only to have eyes for the incredibly handsome man in the spotlight, who for the most part, stood almost motionless, holding the microphone his left hand and using his right hand to express a thought or emotion.
Particular highlights on the night included Iglesias’ version of George Harrison’s My Sweet Lord, from his 1970 multi-platinum selling triple album All Things Must Pass, an upbeat adaptation of the George Michael debut solo single Careless Whisper and his own monster hit Je n’ai pas change (I Haven’t Changed).
It was a mixed effort and Iglesias, who has an extraordinary ability to phrase a song, was on fairly sold ground. As a vocal stylist Iglesias showed that he is still capable of handling almost any kind of material, even if he does handle them pretty much the same way – exhibiting flawless technique and complete emotional involvement.
It was 43 years ago that he had his first single with the Eurovision song Gwendolyne, but Iglesias’ proved that his gifts have not diminished one bit.

By Leslie Wilson Jr
(Source:  http://www.albawaba.com/entertainment/julio-iglesias-dubai-479748)

Wednesday, April 10, 2013

Julio Iglesias on His Career and Wanting to Work with Justin Bieber

Julio Iglesias on His Career and Wanting to Work with Justin Bieber
 Getty Images


“Extra’s” Jerry Penacoli sat down with Latin singing legend Julio Iglesias, who is preparing to release the album “1," which highlights 45 years of his hit songs. Iglesias opened up about his career and who he would still like to work with.
The 69-year-old said his career-defining moment in America was the song, “To All The Girls I’ve Loved Before,” his duet with Willie Nelson. Julio explained, “I remember I couldn't speak English at all, and it took me a long time to sing, ‘To all the G-G-G-G.’ Now when I go back to that moment, I am very thankful because I think without that music, that song and Willie Nelson, I would not be here today.”

Speaking of duets, Iglesias said he would love to work several artists. “Justin Timberlake, Bruno Mars and Justin Bieber. I love that little guy... I was watching him the other day with the guitar singing and it was magic. He’s a guy who is going to stay on the road longer than people think.”



(Source:  http://www.extratv.com/2013/04/10/julio-iglesias-on-his-career-and-wanting-to-work-with-justin-bieber/)

Interview on SiriusXM



Julio talks about meeting Frank Sinatra during this SiriusXM interview

(Source: SiriusXM & YouTube)

Julio triumphs in South Korea


Julio Iglesias performed a great show in Seoul (South Korea), on April 9th, in front of 12.000 enthusiastic people, who packed out the Olympic Gymnasium.

The artist will sing in China, Singapore and Taiwan, in the upcoming 10 days.
(Source: julioiglesias.com)

Julio honored in China



Julio Iglesias received two historic awards in Beijing, on April 1st 2013:

-          First & Most Popular International Artist of All Time in China, an award given by Sony Music China and which was presented to Julio by the World renowned Chinese artist Lang Lang.

-          The Guinness World Records for the Best-selling Male Latin Artist.

“This is one of the most exciting moments in my career.”, Julio’s voice thrilled after receiving the awards. “I came to China for the first time in 1971. I imagined China as a great country, full of passion. And I was right. For me, dancing on the Great Wall, 20 years ago, was a moment of magic in my life.  This award comes from a country that’s been in my heart for decades. Thank you so much, China!”

(Source: julioiglesias.com)

Interview with Julio Iglesias

INDIAN CREEK, Fla. - In Julio Iglesias' recipe for success, talent is only a tiny ingredient. And although the Spanish crooner says singing was not an innate gift for him, he says he's gotten better — and he wants to show that to fans with his latest album.

"Good timing is the first thing you need in order to achieve success," says one of the 10 best selling Latin artist in history. "Then you need good luck and then a little talent ... and a lot of passion, a lot of drive, and discipline."

In a recent interview with The Associated Press at his luxurious house on the island of Indian Creek, Iglesias spoke about the reasons he recorded "1 - Greatest Hits", a double CD with songs he made popular in English, Spanish, French and Italian, like "Begin the Beguine (Volver a Empezar)," ''Crazy," ''Hey," ''Me Olvide de Vivir," and "Me Va, Me Va."

"I wanted to be practical and sing better the songs that deserved to be better sung," he said.
He also said he didn't care much about critics anymore and spoke about his fear of sleep, his next birthday and why he wouldn't sing with his famous son, Enrique.

AP: What would you like to say with this album?
Iglesias: Nothing. I want to make things better. I want people to know that I sing better, that sound today is a lot better. I don't want anyone to hide my voice in 20 years and put the orchestra they want in. I don't want anyone to do dirty tricks with my music. I want to do it myself.

AP: Throughout all these years, your profession surely has given you many things and also taken things away from you.
Iglesias: It has taken nothing... How unfair it would be for a guy like me to say...

AP: Hasn't it taken time from you with your family?
Iglesias: Not at all. My family has all the time in the world. My family lives the way it lives because I have this time marginalized for them, not in a sense of reproach but happiness. All my children and all my direct family must be really happy that I spent less time (with them).

AP: What did your career give you?
Iglesias: The gaze of the people. The applause, the recognition. When I go to a restaurant and they give me the freshest food (laughs). No, what this career has given me is the chance to know people inside and out; the looks with just the eyes, the cultures. If I ride with you in an elevator and there are six different cultures, I get five right for sure. That's wonderful.

AP: What makes you happy?
Iglesias: (Silence) No, no, happiness for me is not a special motivation. There are things way more important than happiness. Emotion is much more important ... Excitement and passion is 100 times better than happiness.

AP: And what excites you?
Iglesias: Many things. Waking up, that excites me a lot because I don't like to sleep.

AP: Are you afraid of not waking up?
Iglesias: I am afraid precisely of ... the time I lose, the fear that I don't like to go to sleep, I don't feel like it, I don't want to.

AP: How many hours do you sleep at night?
Iglesias: Oooh, I must sleep four. Very little.

AP: What makes you go on?
Iglesias: Discipline. Success.

AP: Are you afraid to lose it?
Iglesias: Not anymore. The only thing I'm going to lose at this point is life. It's not a very modest answer, but is a fair one. After three generations, there will always be a place where I can sing for 10 people at any club in Stockholm or any little corner of your country in Syria. There will always be a moment, there will always be people for me. Less, much less probably, but even if there are 100 I communicate.

AP: You turn 70 this year. Is this something special or just one more number for you?
Iglesias: It is crap. 70 years. (He pauses). Not an easy number, 70. Nor was easy 60, or even 50. I think I haven't had an easy number because I've had to learn how to live continuously. I wasn't born knowing. There are people who are born with everything in place but I was born with all the pieces separated and I have been putting them together. And now that I'm 70 I am approaching that crossword where many things get completed. And I don't want to get things completed, because the day I do I will get screwed.

AP: How do you view your son Enrique's career?
Iglesias: Enrique is magical. Enrique is like that miracle to a parent... We want our children to be successful and stand out, but as much as we can imagine it we can never think that our own children will have such an outstanding success.

AP: When are you going to sing together?
Iglesias: My son and I singing together is something that may seem very commercial, (but) I think that neither he nor me are going to do it, ever. ... I don't believe in a commercial duet between myself and my children.

(Source:  http://www.timescolonist.com/entertainment/julio-iglesias-wants-to-show-his-improved-chops-in-new-hits-album-1.107098)

Thursday, March 21, 2013

Dubai Concert Postponed

Julio Iglesias Deeply Upset Over Dubai Gig Equipment Mix-up

21 March 2013











The 69-year-old star was scheduled to perform at the Dubai World Trade Centre, but promoters had to axe the gig at the last minute when they discovered Iglesias' gear had not arrived at the venue. A statement from organisers reads, "(We) regret to announce the re-scheduling of tonight's World Legends Tour concert with Julio Iglesias due to the delay in dispatch of the concert equipment... Iglesias sincerely apologises to his fans, sponsors, people and Government of Dubai".
Iglesias says of the equipment problems, "I love Dubai and was very much looking forward to sharing my show with you tonight. I am deeply upset that my concert equipment did not leave as scheduled to arrive in Dubai on time. Had this have happened anywhere else in the world, we would not have been able to reschedule the concert so quickly because in Dubai everything is possible."
The concert has been pushed back to Friday night (22Mar13).


Friday, February 1, 2013

U.S. Release of "1"

NEW YORK, Jan. 31, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- The phenomenal 45-year career of international megastar Julio Iglesias, one of the world's ten best-selling recording artists with global sales in excess of 300 million units, is the focus of an inspired new collection of his signature songs entitled 1 – GREATEST HITS. The title is set for release April 9, 2013, through Columbia/Legacy, a division of SONY MUSIC ENTERTAINMENT. 

Already certified multi-platinum in virtually every Spanish-speaking territory on earth, 1 – GREATEST HITS showcases newly-recorded versions (from 2006 and 2011) of the bulk of its tracks, representing Julio's most-loved hits from the '70s, '80s and '90s. These are the songs that have turned Julio into the world's biggest-selling Latin artist and one of the most emblematic celebrities of all time. 1 – GREATEST HITS is the first new album from Julio since Romantic Classics in 2006. The collection will be available in two separate configurations: The 2-CD version will include 37 tracks, comprising 19 tracks on CD One and 18 tracks on CD Two. The deluxe version will include the same two CDs, plus Starry Night: Live From the Greek Theatre, the DVD chronicle of Julio's historic concert at the legendary Los Angeles venue in 1990. 

 "This album," said Julio of the project he has been working on for three years, "is mainly dedicated to all the anonymous people who have been following me for 45 years, with generosity and affection, and who have allowed me to keep singing up until today. They'll always be the great driving force of my career." Fans will immediately be struck with the new arrangements and vocals, and the sonic advancements that enable Julio's unique and distinctive style to flourish and fill a room. Far from having the differences in sonics and production that normally affect compilations, the music possesses a uniformity and maturity of sound and interpretation. To hear a comparison between the original and re-recorded songs, please go to http://bit.ly/yMvona

The achievements and awards bestowed upon Julio Iglesias would fill numerous rooms. As far back as 1983, he received the first and only Diamond Record award from the Guinness Book Of World Records, for selling more records in more languages than any music artist in history, including Spanish, English, German, Japanese, Italian, Portuguese, and French topping the list. To date he has sold over 300 million records and received over 2,600 gold and platinum record certifications from around the world. Ever since Julio conquered the UK in 1981 with his #1 Pop Hit of Cole Porter 's "Begin the Beguine (Volver A Empezar)," he has courted the English-speaking segment of his audience with an ever-expanding repertoire. The song became the focus track of his first Columbia LP in the U.S. in 1983, simply titled Julio. The album included "Hey," one of many collaborations with co-writer Ramon Arcusa , and the opening track on the second disc of 1 – GREATEST HITS as re-recorded in 2011. Julio released his first LP entirely sung in English in 1984, 1100 Bel Air Place, which featured his breakthrough duet with Willie Nelson , "To All The Girls I've Loved Before," a Top 5 hit on the Billboard Hot 100 that year and re-recorded by Julio in 2006. In addition to "To All The Girls I've Loved Before," two other songs were also re-recorded in 2006 and are included on 1 – GREATEST HITS: "All Of You," a duet with Diana Ross , and " My Love ," a duet with Stevie Wonder . 

Julio's next entirely English album arrived in 1990, Starry Night, produced by Albert Hammond and named for the Don McLean-penned title song, "Vincent (Starry Starry Night)." 1 – GREATEST HITS also includes "99 Miles From L.A." (by Hal David / Albert Hammond ) in its original version from Starry Night. "When I Need You," the Carole Bayer Sager/ Albert Hammond standard from Starry Night, leads off the roster of five songs that were re-recorded in 2011. The others comprise two Willie Nelson compositions, namely "Always On My Mind" and Patsy Cline 's "Crazy" (from Julio's 1994 album of the same title, Crazy); as well as "Crazy In Love" and a duet with Sting (also from Crazy) on one of his earliest ballads, "Fragile." Duets with America's top pop artists have been a focal point of Julio's attention for decades now, and CD One includes no less than nine standout duets. In addition to the four already mentioned, there are duets with Frank Sinatra ("Summerwind," courtesy of Sinatra's first Duets album in 1993); with Dolly Parton ("When You Tell Me That You Love Me") and Art Garfunkel ("Let It Be Me"), both from Crazy; and Stephanie Spruill (Casablanca's eternal "As Time Goes By"). 

On CD Two, with the exception of one song ("La Cumparsita," re-recorded in 2006), all of the selections were re-recorded by Julio in 2011. These go back to some of his earliest successes, for example, "Un canto a Galicia" from 1972, which was a #1 hit in Latin America and across Europe; "Hey" (title tune of his 1980 worldwide #1 album, which netted Julio his first Grammy Award® nomination in the Latin Pop Album category); 1981's "De nina a mujer" (from the album of the same title), and so on. 

1 – GREATEST HITS by JULIO IGLESIAS (2-CD version: Columbia/Legacy 88765 438212 2) CD One – Selections: 1. Begin The Beguine (Volver A Empezar) • 2. Crazy • 3. When I Need You • 4. Vincent (Starry Starry Night) • 5. 99 Miles From L.A. • 6. And I Love Her • 7. Always On My Mind • 8. Crazy In Love • 9. Fragile (with Sting) • 10. To All The Girls I've Loved Before (with Willie Nelson ) • 11. All Of You (with Diana Ross ) • 12. My Love (with Stevie Wonder ) • 13. When You Tell Me That You Love Me (with Dolly Parton ) • 14. Summer Wind (with Frank Sinatra ) • 15. Let It Be Me (with Art Garfunkel ) • 16. As Time Goes By (with Stephanie Spruill ) • 17. Se Ora Avessi Un Po' Di Te (Uno) • 18. Dizem Que Os Homens Nao Devem Chorar • 19. La Vie Defile En Silence (Como Han Pasado Los Anos). 

CD Two – Selections: 1. Hey • 2. Por El Amor De Una Mujer • 3. Me Va, Me Va • 4. Un Canto A Galicia • 5. El Dia Que Me Quieras • 6. Me Olvide De Vivir • 7. Corazon Partió • 8. De Niña A Mujer • 10. Amor, Amor, Amor • 11. Derroche • 12. La Cumparsita • 13. Nathalie • 14. Caballo Viejo/Bamboleo • 15. El Amor • 16. Caruso • 17. Devaneios (O Me Quieres O Me Dejas) • 18. Quelque Chose De France. 

1 – GREATEST HITS by JULIO IGLESIAS (2-CD+DVD version: Columbia/Legacy 88765 46961 2) CD One and CD Two (same as above). DVD – Starry Night: Live From the Greek Theatre – Selections: 1. Volver A Empezar (Begin The Beguine) • 2. Amor, Amor, Amor • 3. To All The Girls I've Loved Before • 4. Too Many Women • 5. La Polama • 6. Brazilian Medley: The Girl From Ipanema/Desafinado • 7. If You Go Away (Ne Me Quitte Pas) • 8. 99 Miles From L.A. • 9. When I Need You • 10. Bamboleo • 11. Moonlight Lady • 12. Pensami (Júrame) • 13. Hey • 14. Mona Lisa • 15. Ae, Ao • 16. Can't Help Falling In Love. (Previously released on VHS and internationally on DVD.) 

PR Newswire (http://s.tt/1zcOk)

Latin Songwriters Hall of Fame


Julio Iglesias in First Class to Enter Latin Songwriters Hall of Fame By

Manuel Alejandro, Jose Angel "Ferrusquilla" Espinosa, Jose Feliciano, Julio Iglesias, Armando Manzanero, and Concha Valdez Miranda are the first five songwriters to be honored by the recently created Latin Songwriters Hall of Fame at a ceremony presented in association with Billboard. 

The composers, from Spain, Mexico, Puerto Rico, Mexico and Cuba, will be inducted at a ceremony on Tuesday, April 23, at the New World Center in Miami Beach. John Leguizamo will host the gala event, which takes place during the Billboard Latin Music Conference.
Composer Desmond Child and composer/producer Rudy Perez, co-founders of the hall, announced the inaugural inductees today (January 28) at a press conference in Miami. Spanish pop singer/songwriter Natalia Jiménez -- who will receive a special award for young songwriters, Jon Secada, and members of the Latin Songwriters Hall of Fame Board of Directors joined Perez and Child for the announcement.

April's black-tie gala and subsequent Hall of Fame events will "honor the world's greatest Latin songwriters and their music in every genre." 

A nominating committee made up of songwriters, performing artists, musicians, producers, recording engineers, music critics and industry executives will meet once a year to nominate twenty-four candidates from all genres of Spanish and Portuguese-language music in the categories of Performing Songwriters and Non-Performing Songwriters. 

All members of the organization were eligible to vote for five out of the twenty-four of the inaugural round of nominees.

(Source: http://www.billboard.com/articles/columns/latin-notas/1535684/julio-iglesias-in-first-class-to-enter-latin-songwriters-hall)