Teresa Padrón, former manager and close friend of the late Cuban singer José Manuel Carvajal Zaldívar, known as "El Taiger," announced on Wednesday that Nelson Martínez has been appointed as the new steward of the artist's music and legacy.
The announcement included a subtle critique of those previously responsible for managing these affairs after the singer's passing.
"Since José's departure, his music and legacy have been in the hands of individuals who weren't truly committed to preserving his work, his music, or his name... it became clear that José was no longer a priority for some," Padrón stated.
Addressing the new appointee, the former manager was clear: "Nelson Martínez has been appointed to oversee the management of his music and legacy, a professional with genuine connections in the music industry and real experience in elevating artists to new heights."
Ensuring a Lasting Legacy
Padrón expressed a clear mission: "To keep his music alive; to ensure his legacy never fades, and his name reaches the recognition it deserves; for new generations to discover, listen, and feel his work; and for his memory to endure indefinitely."
She concluded with a strong message: "My stance is clear. This is not about personal opinions or differences... it's about respect and doing things right."
The announcement comes amidst a protracted dispute over control of the artist's musical and personal legacy, which began after his death on October 10, 2024, at Miami's Jackson Memorial Hospital, a week following his discovery with a gunshot wound to the head at Damián Valdés Galloso's residence in Hialeah.
Since then, managing his work has led to numerous conflicts. In December 2024, Padrón herself was removed as the legal representative when the mother of one of the artist's children took over that role.
In February 2025, a live Instagram broadcast on the singer's official account showcasing unreleased material sparked a new confrontation: Eliani Rodríguez Pérez, the mother of one of his daughters living in Cuba, claimed she never authorized the use of that material.
The heirs' attorney, Yuni Barreto, was adamant at the time: "We do not agree with commercializing or exposing José Manuel's work without a court order."
El Taiger's four children are equal inheritors of his estate, each receiving 25%, as specified by the attorney. Former manager Marcel Reinosa had claimed to possess "four, five albums at least, and music for three or four years" of unreleased material from the artist.
Ongoing Legal Battles
Despite her legal exclusion, Padrón has remained a vocal public advocate for the legacy, organizing tributes in Cuba and Miami, acquiring a chapel at the Colón Cemetery for the singer's remains, and leading campaigns to escalate charges against the accused.
The trial against Valdés Galloso has faced numerous delays. In January 2026, the accused appeared in court for the first time since the judicial process began in 2024.
Valdés Galloso appeared with his third defense attorney, court-appointed lawyer Ricardo Hermida, who, in his initial statement on behalf of the accused, expressed, "On behalf of Mr. Valdés Galloso, we are truly sorry and extend our condolences to the family of the deceased, El Taiger."
Frequently Asked Questions About El Taiger's Legacy
Who is Nelson Martínez?
Nelson Martínez is the newly appointed manager responsible for overseeing El Taiger's music and legacy. He is recognized for his professional credentials and genuine industry connections.
What led to the controversy surrounding El Taiger's legacy?
The controversy began after El Taiger's death in 2024, involving disputes over control of his musical and personal legacy, and disagreements over the unauthorized use of his unreleased material.
What role does Teresa Padrón play in preserving El Taiger's legacy?
Though legally excluded from representation, Teresa Padrón continues to advocate for El Taiger's legacy through organizing tributes and campaigning for justice regarding the circumstances of his death.