Cuban musician Jose Manuel Carbajal Zaldivar, popularly known as “El Taiger,” passed away at the age of 37 after being shot in Miami, Florida. His family confirmed his death on Thursday, just one week after the artist was found unconscious in a car and hospitalised due to a gunshot wound to the head.
El Taiger, a well-known urbano singer, blended reggaeton with traditional Cuban music, creating hits like “La Historia,” “Papelito,” and “Habla Matador.” His unique style and passion for Cuban culture earned him a devoted fanbase both in Cuba and internationally.
“We bid farewell to one of the most recognised figures of the urban genre, who did not renounce his Cuban identity and always expressed love for his country,” said the Cuban Institute of Music in a statement on Facebook.
Although he had lived in the United States for several years, El Taiger remained deeply connected to his Cuban roots. Fans and fellow artists have been mourning his loss, with tributes pouring in across social media.
His family expressed their gratitude to the medical team that cared for him during his hospitalisation. “We are thankful for the prayers and tributes offered while he was in the hospital,” they said in a statement. They encouraged his fans to remember him by celebrating his life: “Turn up the volume of your music, dance, and celebrate his life.”
Legendary Cuban band Los Van Van also paid tribute to the late artist on Instagram, sharing, “We are deeply saddened by your death but proud to have known you and shared the stage on more than one occasion. Rest in peace, tireless warrior.”
In Cuba, fans gathered in the Guanabacoa neighbourhood in eastern Havana to honour El Taiger. Scores of people assembled in a park, placing photos of the musician, lighting candles, and singing his songs. Many turned on the lights of their cell phones as a tribute to the fallen artist.
“We are sad, very sad, but we are celebrating as he wanted,” said Yuli Mauro, a 30-year-old fan who danced to his music alongside her son. “He said he wanted parties and joy. We’ve already lit his candle so that he can reach heaven with light.”
Also Read:
- Nigerian Music Legend Onyeka Onwenu Dies After Performance
- Burna Boy Describes Nigeria as “Collateral Damage” in Candid Reflection on Nation’s Challenges
El Taiger’s untimely death has cast a shadow over the urbano music scene, and many fans continue to express their sorrow over the loss of such a vibrant and influential figure in Cuban music.
The Miami police are investigating the circumstances surrounding the shooting, and further details about the case have not been released yet.
El Taiger’s death has once again highlighted the growing issue of gun violence in the United States. Mass shootings in schools and public spaces remain a significant problem, with ongoing debates about gun control, mental health, and public safety fueling discussions across the nation. Gun violence continues to be a divisive and controversial topic in American society, with no easy solution in sight.