ENRIQUE IGLESIAS: The Festiva Interview

Enrique Iglesias has discovered a cure for writer's block.

For the first time in his more than 10 year career, Iglesias is simultaneously writing music for two new albums - one in English and one in Spanish. And the process has all but eliminated his struggle to put to paper.

"It's completely different, Spanish and English when you write," Iglesias said during a phone interview last week. "Actually, I like it better I think. If you're going through a little bit of a rough patch writing in English you switch to Spanish, or vice versa."

And fans should be excited, Iglesias said, because the new songs sound great. Those interested in a sneak peak of the albums, which likely won't come out until 2009, should check out Iglesias on Sept. 5 at the Dodge Arena. The Madrid-born, Miami-raised singer will play his third show in the Valley with opening act Aventura, also known as the Kings of Bachata. And he may play a couple new songs.

Where Iglesias has written Spanish and English songs separate in the past, he says the new work marks a fusion. One that will play better with today's younger fans.

"I don't really want to have such a different sound from English to Spanish," Iglesias said. "I want it to be more equal. It's changed a lot. I think it's become a more bilingual audience."

Iglesias rose to fame among Spanish music fans in the mid ‘90s. He recorded a self-titled album in Spanish, which to date has sold more than 7 million copies. His sophomore album, Vivir, also recorded in Spanish, even broke the Top 40 in the United States.

Iglesias sealed his mainstream success in 1999 with Enrique. His first English album launched him to fame. The single Bailamos received radio and television play across the world.

But shouldn't overlook his opening act, Iglesias said.

"Aventura, they're really cool," Iglesias said. "They're considered bachata and hip hop. But they're fresh. They're young and they're good. They're really good in the sense their songs are very catchy. I've liked them for quite a few years, and we became friends."

So when he launched his massive, nation-wide tour, he seized the opportunity to add the band. Tickets are on sale now for the show.