Childhood Friend of El Taiger Unveils Untold Aspects of His Life

A year has passed since the untimely death of Cuban reggaeton star El Taiger. Alain Ramos, his childhood friend and early music collaborator, has decided to share insights into the artist’s life and career. During an interview with Telemundo 51, Ramos nostalgically recalled the beginnings of José Manuel Carvajal Saldívar, better known as El Taiger, and the fervor he exhibited from his early days in Alta Habana.

In their teenage years, the duo would often perform impromptu songs for neighbors from a modest apartment situated on L and Vento streets in Boyeros. The pair's debut performance took place in May 2006 at Club Barbarán in Nuevo Vedado, where a 19-year-old El Taiger demonstrated his potential and determination to become one of the most influential voices in Cuban reggaeton. They went on to record their initial tracks in a humble studio, paying five CUC per song.

Ramos cherishes an old video where El Taiger boasts about their bond. "This man is my lifelong brother from Cuba, and he was the one who brought me into music," El Taiger is heard saying in the video. Now living in Homestead, Ramos prefers to remember El Taiger as a young artist who embarked on his journey with limited resources but a clear vision—a rough diamond beginning to shine.

Ramos’ greatest wish is for the truth about El Taiger's murder to be revealed. He believes the key lesson from El Taiger's life is the importance of being discerning about one's surroundings. "Because sometimes, not everything is as it seems," he advises. 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 significant void in Cuban urban music.

On the first anniversary of his passing, Cuban singer Jacob Forever shared a nostalgic Instagram post, featuring an image of his late colleague smoking a cigar. "It’s been a year since you left us. Rest in peace, and may God hold you in glory, El Príncipe, El Taiger, La Tranka, The Best in the world," Jacob wrote, using several of the nicknames by which the reggaeton artist was known.

A tribute is planned for October 10 at the chapel of the Colon Cemetery in Havana, where his ashes rest. The event, announced by Teresa Padrón, the artist's former manager, invites fans, colleagues, and loved ones to celebrate his music and essence.

A year after his tragic death, El Taiger continues to be remembered for not only his contributions to Cuban reggaeton but also for the impact he made on those who believed in him from the start. His story reflects the passion and perseverance of a young man who, despite many hurdles, turned dreams into music and left a lasting impression on those around him.