Miguel Costas speaks about health struggles and his musical journey
Miguel Costas, born in Vigo in 1961, spoke from the village of O Saviñao near Monforte, where he lives, about a challenging health episode. In a sequence of tweets last Friday, he warned followers that he was on the verge of falling seriously ill due to a leg infection linked to antibiotic resistant bacteria. It was noted that the Castelao Medal was awarded to his band Total Loss sometime between 1981 and 1994, recognizing a period of health issues rooted in that era. He recalled an accident on stage with Siniestro Total in Bilbao when equipment damaged him, causing a fall that fractured his heel bone. Over time, age-related discomfort persisted. Doctors performed nerve-destroying blocks and applied radiofrequency treatment, but the infection was believed to have originated from the heel bone.
– First, as Bisbal asked: how is the machine?
– He remains in recovery. The infection shows signs of retreat, yet full healing has not occurred and a renewed spread remains possible. An infection appeared suddenly, and its source was unclear. The team initially suspected holes from previous procedures as a possible cause. A seven-day hospital stay was required while cultures were processed to identify the exact bacteria and determine the right antibiotic. The infection had begun to affect the bone and could have led to sepsis. After the culture results, the responsible bacteria were identified.
– On May 3, during the La Recta Festival of the Eighties in Baiona, other participants appeared pale and seated while he stood and performed. He chose to go on stage despite the strain.
– He performed a few concerts while seated, since playing is his profession. His condition worsened daily, and he decided to cancel several planned performances until full recovery was achieved.
– How long was he hospitalized?
– Antibiotics were taken for two months, then a week for culture results, followed by home care with ongoing antibiotics as movement was limited. He also faced anemia and a fungal infection. After nearly three months of treatment, the situation gradually improved.
“You said you were about to die.” What moment carried the greatest danger?
– In the hospital, the team could not identify the bacteria initially, and they warned that if the infection reached the bone, sepsis could occur. Strong medications were used to prevent this and to keep the blood infection from spreading.
– Were sedatives used, or was he fully conscious?
– Morphine and fentanyl were administered because the pain was intolerable. Other opioids were used, and there was a plan to reduce the heavy medications as recovery progressed.
– How is the leg treatment progressing?
– The infection required drainage through a wick, which caused intense pain, but it was necessary. Ongoing daily therapies are part of the routine. He jokes about the pain but acknowledges the struggle. It is clear that the recovery process is personal and demanding for those close to him as well.
The tweets carried a tone of real concern. When he released the song “I’m a Punk,” he wrote a message referencing someone dear and a sense of urgency about the future.
– The seriousness of the situation was evident. At one moment a doctor hinted that there might be no easy solution.
– Last Friday, he posted several of his own songs on social media, expressing a desire to leave a lasting legacy. He reflected on the value of his stage presence within Total Loss, alongside other projects and future plans.
He admitted feeling undervalued, noting a prolific catalog of twenty-eight LPs, yet only a few widely recognized. The music industry in the country often prioritizes immediate marketing and promotion, which can overlook longtime artists. He contrasted this with the careers of veterans who still receive attention and respect, while younger acts benefit from aggressive branding gone viral online.
– Did the artists you mentioned receive requests to perform famous songs from decades ago?
– He performs tracks like “Bailaré sobre tu tumba” and “Miña terra galega,” choosing material that may be less familiar to new audiences. He explained that his team manages social networks, and he sometimes sees programs focused on selling misery and pushing records. His aim is career recognition earned through decades of work, not just current trends. He enjoys making music for joy and personal fulfillment, regardless of wide acclaim.
– What is his view on the Castelao Medal? As a founder of Sinestro Total, he was not invited to attend the event and has no intention of going. He does not hold any hard feelings, only concern for his health and recovery. He prefers to focus on getting better and continuing to perform when possible. He lives with the idea that music keeps him alive and considers his career to be respectable, even if public recognition remains uneven.
– Among the messages he has received, are there any surprises?
– He notes the abundance of supportive friends and the time needed to reply to everyone. It is clear that many people care deeply and are eager to see him regain strength.
– The relationship with Sinestro Total has evolved, and some fans felt disappointed by a lack of a final Vigo farewell. He says he participated as a guest and respects other members, hoping to reconnect with them during future gatherings. He does not share all the decisions but understands the boundaries set by the group dynamics. He remains open to future opportunities and to honoring his musical past in his own terms.
– Regarding his musical family, two sons named Bruno and Yago perform with The Riggos. Is this a source of pride?
– His children play because they love it. They work other jobs, and music remains a passion. He started without a clear plan to become a musician and found himself on that path because it brought joy. One day he realized the journey had become a career and there was no turning back.