José Manuel Carbajal Zaldívar, artistically known as El Taiger, was a prominent Cuban singer in urban music, particularly in the reggaeton and reparto genres. He was born in Havana, Cuba, on September 6, 1987. From a young age, he displayed considerable musical talent, which led him to begin his career in the early 2000s. His first steps in music were within the urban genre, as part of the Cuban reggaeton movement. During this initial phase, he gained recognition as a member of the duo Los Desiguales, alongside Damián. This project achieved significant success in the Cuban urban music scene and helped establish El Taiger's presence in the island's music landscape.
Throughout his life, El Taiger managed to establish himself as one of the most influential figures in Cuban reggaeton, spreading his music to various parts of the world, especially in Cuba and Miami, where a significant portion of the Cuban diaspora resides.
His rise in the music industry was meteoric, marked by a unique style that blended reguetón with elements of traditional Cuban music. Among his biggest hits are songs like "La Historia," "Coronamos," "Habla Matador," "Washy Pupy," "La Guariconfianza," and "Papelito," which resonated on both dance floors and digital platforms. These tracks solidified his status as a key figure in the Cuban urban genre. He was also known for his collaborations with other artists, including Oniel Bebeshito, with whom he released the hit "Marca Mandarina" in 2024.
Despite his musical success, El Taiger experienced a life filled with ups and downs, including legal issues and controversies that at times impacted his career. His rebellious nature and refusal to conform to market demands set him apart in the music scene, as he remained true to his roots and the style that brought him fame.
On October 10, 2024, at the age of 37, El Taiger passed away under tragic circumstances. He was the victim of a gunshot wound to the head in Miami, and after fighting for his life for a week at Jackson Memorial Hospital, he was unable to recover from his injuries. His death left a deep void in Cuban urban music and sparked an outpouring of tributes and condolence messages from both his colleagues in the industry and his fans.
The death of El Taiger shocked both Cuba and the Cuban community in Miami, where tributes were paid in the form of vigils and musical honors. His friends, family, and fans remember his musical legacy as a reflection of the lives and struggles of young Cubans, showcasing his authenticity and passion for music, which left an indelible mark on the Cuban urban genre.
