Yuku free message boards

Scans thanks to JenniferLopez04

Translated by me:
Jennifer Lopez-singer, actress, and entrepreneur

Before becoming one of the most important Latinas in the world, Jennifer Lopez was a young boricua from the Bronx that didn't want anything to do with salsa music or puerto-rican food. "When I was young", she says, "everything was: 'Don't listen to Latin music, listen to hip-hop. I don't want that kind of food, I want McDonald's.' I remember that when I lived in LA, I would call home craving rice and beans, or chicken like my mom made it. I would call her and ask her how to make it. I couldn't take another day of Taco Bell. That's how I learned how to cook Latin food-over the phone. And that's when I started listening to Spanish music."

Lopez, 37, has recorded her first Spanish album, Como ama una mujer, which will be released March 27. Her first single, Que Hiciste, will debut on the radio January 9. The CD, produced by husband Marc Anthony, 38, explores the depth, frustration, and unlimited joy of the love a woman feels. "This album came from a beautiful place", says Lopez, 2 days after the photo session in LA (Visit peopleenespanol.com to see a video). "Of everything I've done, this is probably what I'm most proud of".

That's a considerable achievement considering the fact that this entrepreneur has not stopped creating things since she was a dancer on In Living Color in 1990. She's made 22 films, 4 discs, launched a clothing line, and created 6 fragrances, one of which, Glow by JLO, is one of the most successful perfumes in the world. Lopez's fortune is estimated at $255 million. It will surely increase when El cantante is released in theaters. Lopez is easily the most famous Latina on the planet, but she's also the first to say that she was not the first. "I am absolutely moved by the fact that Rita Moreno is also on this list. She's an icon. Just looking at her body of work, how long she's been in the business, and the fact that she was in my favorite movie, West Side Story, inspired me to chase my dreams."
And today, another generation of young girls get that same inspiration from Lopez. "A great part of my job is that I can inspire other people. It makes me emotional when I think about the fact that I can affect people: I can change opinions, make people think, laugh, and cry. It's a beautiful part of what we do."

Rita Moreno herself says, "I think she's extraordinary. She's transformed her talent into something phenomenal. She's become an amazing mark."

In reality, Lopez has more time to reflect on these things and her need to express herself as a Latin artist. "These past two years, since I've gotten married, I've tried to live my life calmly. In reality, I've matured as an artist and as a person. I've noticed that all my current projects have a lot to do with my roots. El cantante, Bordertown, Como ama una mujer, and a perfume called (Deseo) Desire. When I look at all of this, I say, 'Wow. I didn't know I had so much inside of me.' I've happy about the fact that I've taken the time to appreciate these things."

That inner voice has continued to tell her that at some point, she'd love to have a family. "I come from a strong family, so of course I'd like to have one. But I already have my family: my immediate family, my husband, and his kids. I'm part of all of this. I'm very fortunate." That could explain why this is the best time in her life. "I feel fulfilled, satisfied, at peace, and centered like never before." True, but, is there anything that would make her life even better? "You know", says Lopez laughing, "When you are as blessed as I am, it's best not to press your luck".