The legacy of El Taiger in dispute: Legal conflict in Miami over his music and heritage

The controversy arose after a live broadcast on the official Instagram account of the late artist.

El Taiger alongside Glen, the puppet that accompanied him in his latest music videoPhoto © Instagram / El Taiger

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The legacy of the late Cuban singer José Manuel Carvajal Zaldívar, artistically known as "El Taiger", is at the center of a legal dispute in Miami, according to a report by Telemundo 51.

The controversy arose after a live broadcast on the official Instagram account of the deceased artist, where musicians who collaborated with him shared and discussed an unreleased song. This act has sparked debates about the rights and management of the singer's musical legacy.

Screenshot/Telemundo 51

Eliani Rodríguez Pérez, mother of one of El Taiger's daughters residing in Cuba, stated that she never authorized the use of the artist's Instagram account nor the sharing of unpublished material.

His lawyer, Yuni Barreto, from the firm Luis E. Barreto & Associates, P.A., emphasized: "We do not agree that José Manuel's work should be commercialized or displayed without a court order."

Eliani and her daughter, Ana Paloma, live in Cuba, which necessitates the appointment of a legal guardian to represent the minor's interests in the litigation. Lawyer Barreto emphasized that El Taiger's four children are equal heirs to the artist's estate, with each one entitled to 25%.

On the other hand, Marcel Reinosa, former manager of El Taiger, defended the action of sharing the unreleased song, arguing that the musicians involved are co-authors and producers of the work.

Reinosa stated that her goal is to protect the artist's heritage and benefit their heirs. "The band already said it: 'it was something beautiful, it's not to harm anyone'", she declared.

Currently, there is no person with the legal authority to make decisions on behalf of El Taiger's estate.

The legal process continues, and the legal representative of the estate has stated that their only interest is "to ensure that all the heirs of José Manuel Carvajal, wherever they may be, have equal rights in this process, and their work will be carried out in the courts."

El Taiger gained popularity with songs such as "La Historia" and "Marca Mandarina", collaborating with renowned artists such as J Balvin and Cosculluela. His music resonated both in Cuba and in the diaspora, establishing him as an icon of "cubatón."

On October 3, 2024, El Taiger was found with a gunshot wound to the head in Miami.

After a week in critical condition at Jackson Memorial Hospital, he passed away on October 10, 2024. The circumstances of his death caused shock in the Cuban community and the music industry.

After his death, his team has assured that there is enough unreleased material to keep his musical presence alive for several years.

Marcel Reinosa stated: "We have four, five albums at a minimum, and we have music for the next three or four years". He also emphasized that the proceeds from his work will be entirely allocated to his children.

The impact of El Taiger goes beyond his recorded music. His influence is evident in tributes and honors that celebrate his contribution to the urban genre.

For example, in December 2024, his daughter Ana Paloma, along with the singer Yulien Oviedo, released the song "The Best in the World" as an emotional tribute to her father.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Legacy and Legal Dispute of El Taiger

What is happening with El Taiger's musical legacy after his death?

The musical legacy of El Taiger is at the center of a legal dispute in Miami, where the disclosure of unreleased material and the management of his estate are being debated. The controversy arose after an unreleased song was shared on his Instagram account without legal authorization.

Who are the heirs of El Taiger?

The heirs of El Taiger are his four children, each of whom is entitled to 25% of his estate. The legal process seeks to ensure that all heirs have equal rights and that the legacy is managed fairly and equitably.

What is Marcel Reinosa's stance on El Taiger's unpublished music?

Marcel Reinosa, former manager of El Taiger, defends the release of unreleased music arguing that it is to protect the artist's legacy and benefit their heirs. He claims there is enough material to keep their musical presence alive for several years.

What legal conflicts have arisen following El Taiger's death?

After El Taiger's death, legal conflicts have arisen related to the management of his inheritance and the release of his unreleased music. The designation of a legal representative and the request for DNA tests to confirm the paternity of his children have been points of contention.

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CiberCuba Editorial Team

A team of journalists committed to reporting on Cuban current affairs and topics of global interest. At CiberCuba, we work to deliver truthful news and critical analysis.

CiberCuba Editorial Team

A team of journalists committed to reporting on Cuban current affairs and topics of global interest. At CiberCuba, we work to deliver truthful news and critical analysis.