SANZ HAS THE 'SPIRIT'.

Byline: - Sandra Barrera

He's recognized in Spanish- and Portuguese-speaking countries as a bona fide pop star.

Yet when Alejandro Sanz got word ``El Alma Al Aire'' - ``Free Spirit'' - was in the running for best Latin pop album at this year's Grammys, he was stunned.

``I discovered that I mattered outside (the Latino world),'' he says. ``I never knew that.''

This is the first time the voting members of the recording academy have acknowledged the work of Sanz, one of Spain's most celebrated musicians, composers and singers.

Sanz burst onto the music scene in 1991 with ``Viviendo Deprisa'' - ``Living Fast.'' The album was certified platinum seven times over, and it signaled the start of what has become a successful recording career.

Over the years he's released five albums, been covered by the likes of Julio Iglesias, won multiple awards and sold out concerts worldwide. But Sanz is especially proud of his Grammy-nominated disc.

``I found a form of making music that reflected my own life,'' he says. ``You see me as I really am, from beginning to end.''

Sanz's nomination pits him against artists who are more familiar to American audiences: Christina Aguilera, Oscar De La Hoya, Luis Miguel and Shakira.

It's tough competition.

While Sanz has no expectations about winning, he will be attending the Grammy Awards on Feb. 21 at the Staples Center.

To him, this is a once-in-a-lifetime chance.

``It's like if somebody were to give you the opportunity to meet Nelson Mandela,'' he says. ``I wouldn't want to miss it. This is probably the most important award I've ever been nominated for.''

CAPTION(S):

photo

Photo:

Alejandro Sanz is especially proud of his latest album. ``I found a form of making music that reflected my own life. You see me as I really am, from beginning to end.''