The artist brilliantly mixed reggaeton with traditional Cuban rhythms.
Jose Manuel Carbajal Zaldivar, better known by the stage name “El Taiger”, 37, died Thursday in a Miami hospital, reports the Miami Herald.
News of his death, coming a week after he was found unconscious in his car with a gunshot wound to the head, shook the urban Music world. The artist, who brilliantly mixed reggaeton with traditional Cuban rhythms, left behind memorable hits such as “La Historia”, “Papelito” and “Habla Matador”.
“We say goodbye to one of the most recognized figures of the urban genre, who has not renounced his condition as a Cuban and has always expressed his love for his country,” reacted the Cuban Music Institute. Words that resonate as a testimony to the profound impact that El Taiger had on the music scene of his native country.
“Dance and celebrate his life”
His family urged fans to celebrate his life rather than mourn his loss. “Turn up your music, dance and celebrate his life,” she said. An invitation was heard in Havana, where hundreds of people gathered for a vibrant and moving tribute.
Legendary band Los Van Van expressed their sadness while celebrating El Taiger’s career. “We are deeply saddened by your death, but we are proud to have known you and to have shared the stage (with you) on more than one occasion,” they react.
In Guanabacoa, a neighborhood in Havana, fans held an impromptu vigil, lighting candles and singing his songs. “We are sad, very sad, but we are celebrating as he would have wanted. He said he wanted parties, joy,” explains Yuli Mauro, a 30-year-old fan. “We have already lit his candle so that he can reach the sky with the light,” she adds.
An investigation has been opened to shed light on the exact circumstances of his death.
