MEXICO CITY (AP) - Enrique Iglesias said he plans to leave the spotlight before he turns 50 - unlike his famous father, Julio, who is still crooning romantic ballads after four decades.

''I'm not sure I want to be up on a stage when I'm 64 or 65,'' the pop singer told The Associated Press in a phone interview Thursday from Miami.

''In my father's case, I think he's going to die onstage and I respect that very much,'' the 32-year-old pop star said of the 64-year-old. ''In my case, in 15 years I'll probably look ridiculous singing 'Bailamos' ('Let's Dance').''

The Madrid-born artist - who debuted in 1995 with a self-titled album and releases a greatest hits compilation ''95/08'' on March 25 - said dissatisfaction with his own work is what drives him to continue performing and recording.

''When I listen to my music I think it can still continue to evolve,'' he said. ''After a couple of months go by, I think I could write a better song.''

Iglesias said he is striving to make the perfect record - ''One you listen to 10, 15, 20 years from now and say, 'Oh! I wouldn't change a thing.'''

And until Iglesias makes that album, it seems nothing is set in stone.

''I want to retire in the next 15 years,'' Iglesias said. ''But that's what I say now. Who knows if I'll have the courage to do it when the day comes.''

By ISAAC GARRIDO Associated Press Writer

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