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A year after the tragic death of the Cuban reggaeton artist El Taiger, Alain Ramos, childhood friend and companion during his early musical endeavors, decided to speak publicly about the artist's life and career.
In an interview with Telemundo 51, Ramos nostalgically recalled the beginnings of José Manuel Carvajal Saldívar, the real name of El Taiger, and the passion he displayed from his early days as an artist in the Alta Habana neighborhood.
In those adolescent years, they would often improvise songs in front of the neighbors, in a small apartment in a building on L and Vento street, in the Boyeros municipality.
The duo's first performance in front of an audience was in May 2006, at the Club Barbarán in Nuevo Vedado. There, El Taiger, at just 19 years old, demonstrated that he had the talent and drive to fulfill his dreams and become one of the most influential voices in Cuban reggaeton.
Later, they managed to record their first tracks in a modest studio, paying five CUC per song.
Ramos keeps an old video in which El Taiger boasted about the relationship they both had.
"This man has been my brother for life, from Cuba, and he was the one who came to my house to make music," the singer can be heard saying in the recording.
Ramos, who resides in Homestead, prefers to remember El Taiger as a young man who began his journey in the arts with few resources, but with a clear vision, "that diamond that is starting to be polished."
But now, her greatest wish is for the truth about her murder to be known.
In his opinion, the greatest lesson from El Taiger's story is that one must carefully choose from what surrounds them. "Because sometimes, not everything is as it seems."
El Taiger was shot in Miami on October 3, 2024. After spending seven days in intensive care at Jackson Memorial Hospital, he passed away on October 10, leaving a deep void in Cuban urban music.
On the first anniversary of his passing, the Cuban singer Jacob Forever shared an image on Instagram of his colleague smoking a cigar, accompanied by a message filled with nostalgia and affection.
"Today marks a year since your departure. Rest in peace, and may God keep you in glory El Príncipe, El Taiger, La Tranka, El Mejor del mundo," Jacob wrote, using several of the nicknames by which the late reggaeton artist was known.
For this October 10, a tribute will be held at the chapel of the Colón Cemetery in Havana, where his ashes rest.
The invitation, shared by Teresa Padrón, the singer's former manager, encouraged fans, colleagues, and close ones to remember the music and essence of the artist.
A year after his tragic death, El Taiger is still remembered not only for his contributions to Cuban reggaeton but also for the impact he had on those who believed in him from the very beginning.
His story reflects the passion and perseverance of a young man who, despite the obstacles, managed to turn dreams into music and impact the lives of those around him.
Frequently Asked Questions about El Taiger and his Legacy
Who was El Taiger and what was his impact on Cuban music?
El Taiger, whose real name was José Manuel Carvajal Zaldívar, was a prominent Cuban reggaeton artist known for his unique style and influence on urban music. His career was highlighted by collaborations with international artists such as J Balvin and Bad Bunny, and his songs became anthems for a generation of Cubans. His legacy lives on through his music and the cultural impact he left on the Cuban community.
How did El Taiger die?
El Taiger was murdered on October 3, 2024, in Miami after being shot in the head. He was found seriously injured inside a vehicle and transferred to Jackson Memorial Hospital, where he passed away a week later. The police investigation identified Damián Valdez-Galloso as the primary suspect in the crime, who was subsequently arrested in New York.
What is known about El Taiger's musical legacy one year after his death?
A year after his death, El Taiger's musical legacy remains alive through his songs, which continue to resonate on the streets and in playlists. His family has announced the release of unreleased tracks he recorded, as a way to keep his memory alive and honor his influence in Cuban reggaeton. His fans and peers have organized several tributes in his honor, reaffirming his impact on music and urban culture.
How has the Cuban community reacted to the anniversary of El Taiger's death?
The Cuban community has responded with heartfelt tributes and commemorations on the first anniversary of El Taiger's death. Family, friends, and colleagues have gathered to remember his life and legacy at events organized both in Cuba and Miami. Artists like Jacob Forever and Yomil have shared messages of affection and nostalgia on their social media, while his former manager, Teresa Padrón, has led initiatives to keep his memory alive.
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