Luis Miguel Gallego Basteri, popularly known as “El Sol de Mexico”, has left an indelible mark on the Latin music scene. With a musical journey that started in 1982 when he was just 11, he’s not only sold over 60 million records worldwide but has also managed to redefine genres, making bolero music a phenomenon in the 1990s. However, as he embarks on a fresh tour, there are rising concerns regarding his health.
A Stellar Career
The Puerto Rican-born Mexican singer boasts of a career spanning over three decades, which saw him transition seamlessly from pop, ballads, to the vibrant sounds of boleros and mariachi. Despite not venturing into English pop, his influence is evident with his stature as the best-selling Latin artist of the 1990s.
Known for his powerful live performances, Miguel holds an unparalleled record for the most consecutive and total concerts at Mexico’s renowned Auditorio Nacional.
The Silent Struggle: Luis Miguel and Tinnitus
2015: The Initial Concern
In late 2015, fans received disheartening news when the singer canceled several Mexico City concerts. While initially attributed to a viral throat infection, it soon came to light that Luis Miguel was grappling with tinnitus, a condition characterized by persistent ear ringing. This condition is believed to have been triggered by his extensive exposure to loud music and stages.
The singer’s battle with tinnitus became public domain following a legal altercation with a former tour agent, where court documents disclosed Miguel’s ongoing treatment for the ailment.
The Impact on His Career
Luis Miguel described his condition as “a complicated situation,” which pushed him to momentarily step away from his music. Beyond tinnitus, the singer has also contended with issues pertaining to his vocal cords. In 2019, he underwent surgical intervention in New York to address these throat complications.
While he’s shown immense resilience, performing despite his condition, this hasn’t come without challenges. The unpredictability of his illness has led to sporadic concert cancellations, leaving fans across the world concerned.
Luis Miguel’s 2023 Health Update and Tour
A Triumphant Return
Kicking off 2023, Luis Miguel embarked on an extensive concert tour, his first in four years, starting with performances in Argentina. Observers and fans found hope as the singer looked rejuvenated, delivering a captivating 50-song setlist in Buenos Aires, which even included “duets” with legends like Frank Sinatra and Michael Jackson through archival recordings.
The 2023-2024 tour is set to span Latin America, Mexico, the United States, and eventually Spain, with over 65 shows lined up. This ambitious tour schedule serves as a testament to Miguel’s unwavering spirit and the positive trajectory of his health.
Ongoing Concerns
Although the singer’s return to the stage has been widely celebrated, it’s imperative to remember the severity of his hearing condition. There’s still ambiguity surrounding his complete recovery. Fans worldwide hold onto hope, wishing the iconic artist good health as he continues to enchant audiences.
Conclusion
Luis Miguel’s journey serves as an inspiration, not just for his unparalleled musical achievements, but for his fortitude in the face of adversity. As he marches on, the world watches and cheers, hoping for the best for the legendary “El Sol de Mexico”.
