If ever there was a time for the phrase 'the band played on' the time is now

Host Paul Rodriguez

Organisers were forced to cancel two gala shows, one of which was due to go ahead on 11 September.

"Por fin - it's been a long haul," said Enrique Fernandez, vice-president of the Latin arm of the National Academy of Recording Arts & Sciences (NARAS).

In August, the Latin Grammys were switched from Miami to Los Angeles over security fears from anti-Castro demonstrators, protesting at the appearance of Cuban artists.

Nestor Torres won best pop instrumental album

The show was then pulled at the last minute as the events in New York and Washington unfolded.

The proposed ceremony would have been broadcast to nearly 120 countries around the world.

But NARAS still wanted to honour the Latin music world and decided a quieter affair would be more appropriate.

And the musicians still turned out to collect their awards, albeit forfeiting thank you speeches.

The 2nd annual awards were hosted by actors Jimmy Smits and Paul Rodriguez.

"Congratulations to all of you who braved an airplane flight on such short notice. If ever there was a time for the phrase 'the band played on' the time is now," said Rodriguez.

Christina Aguilera did not attend the event

Alejandro Sanz was presented with four awards, including record of the year and song of the year.

Newcomer Juanes picked up three gongs, including best new artist, after being nominated in seven categories.

After receiving his awards he performed Amor Eterno to a packed audience at the Los Angeles nightclub where the event was held.

Christina Aguilera, who was scheduled to host the event, was awarded best female pop vocal album for her Mi Reflejo but she did not appear to collect it, saying she had flu.

'Passion'

Another winner was Colombian electronic rock band Aterciopelados, who won best rock album by a duo or a group with vocal for Gozo Poderoso.

Legendary salsa singer Celia Cruz won best traditional tropical album for Siempre Vivire and Puerto Rican Nestor Torres was rewarded for best pop instrumental album.

"The journey has been a difficult one but the passion has really shone through in miraculous ways," said Michael Greene, president of the National Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences, which sponsors both the Latin Grammys and the traditional Grammy awards.

He added: "The variety of this year's winners spotlights excellence in Latin music from all over the globe.

"In 2002 we're going to be there better than ever."