El Taiger

José Manuel Carvajal Zaldivar (September 6, 1987 – October 10, 2024), known professionally as **El Taiger**, was a Cuban reggaeton artist, rapper, and record producer. He was recognized for his fusion of traditional Cuban rhythms with reggaeton and hip-hop, which earned him a significant following in the Latin music scene. He was considered one of the notable figures in Cuban urban music.
==Early Life and Career==
El Taiger was born in Havana, Cuba, where he was exposed to the rich musical traditions of his country. Influenced by salsa, son, and timba, he developed a style that reflected his Cuban heritage. His music career began in the early 2000s, with performances in Havana’s underground music scene.
He first achieved recognition as a member of the group *Los 4*, which helped to popularize Cuban reggaeton. This early success established him as a prominent figure in Cuba’s music industry.
==Solo Career==
In 2013, El Taiger launched his solo career, releasing his single "*La Historia,*" which resonated widely with Cuban audiences. He went on to release other successful singles, such as "*Habla Matador*" and "*Coronamos*," which expanded his popularity across Latin America and among the Cuban diaspora.
==Musical Style==
El Taiger’s music was known for blending traditional Cuban sounds with reggaeton, trap, and hip-hop. His lyrics often explored themes of personal struggle and resilience, inspired by his own experiences growing up in Cuba.
==Collaborations==
Throughout his career, El Taiger collaborated with numerous artists, including Gente de Zona, Yomil y El Dany, and El Chacal. His notable collaborations with international stars like Bad Bunny and J Balvin helped him reach a broader audience, reinforcing his influence in the Latin music community.
==Controversies==
El Taiger’s life and career were not without controversy. He faced scrutiny for his connections within the criminal underworld, a situation that culminated in his untimely death. On October 3, 2024, he was shot in Miami under circumstances that remain under investigation. Damián Valdez-Galloso, a known criminal, was named as a person of interest in connection to the incident.
During his final days, it was revealed that El Taiger did not have health insurance, which complicated his medical care. Public figures and fans raised funds to support his recovery while his family awaited visas to join him in the United States.
==Death==
El Taiger passed away on October 10, 2024, one week after being hospitalized due to a gunshot wound. His death was widely mourned, and fans around the world paid tribute to his contributions to Cuban and Latin urban music.
==Discography==
===Studio Albums===
- *La Historia* (2014) 
- *Cuba Libre* (2016) 
- *Coronamos* (2019) 
- *Habla Matador* (2021) 
===Selected Singles===
- *"La Historia"* 
- *"Habla Matador"* 
- *"Coronamos"* 
- *"Corre"* 
==Legacy==
El Taiger is remembered for his contributions to Cuban reggaeton and Latin urban music. His unique fusion of Cuban sounds with contemporary urban genres influenced the development of Cuban reggaeton on an international level.
Category:1987 births
Category:2024 deaths
Category:Cuban people 
Category:Rappers
Category:Record producers