The musician Elito Revé, leader of the famous orchestra "Revé y su Charangón", has stirred controversy within the Cuban music scene with his remarks about reggaeton artist El Taiger (José Manuel Carbajal Zaldívar). During an interview on the YouTube channel Advanced Studio Cubano, Elito lauded El Taiger's impact on contemporary Cuban dance music, especially in the urban genre, highlighting how the creator of "Habla matador" has revolutionized the format.
"El Taiger hooks people from the start because his songs come in with the tumbao. The format of the music has changed. Now, it starts with the tumbao right away and that grabs you," Revé said, referring to the reggaeton artist's musical style.
In Elito's opinion, the traditional structure of songs has evolved, emphasizing immediacy and impact from the very first seconds. "We used to build the body of the song, the action, and then the tumbao or chorus would come in, but now young people want the chorus right away," he noted.
His statements highlight the reggaeton's ability to connect with the younger audience, emphasizing that its direct and engaging style has transformed the island's music, comparing it to the evolution of other Cuban genres like changüí.
New Wave of Cuban Reggaeton
Revé also mentioned other famous Cuban reggaeton artists like Jorgito y Los Cuatro, El Yonky, Gente de Zona, Wampi, Wow Popy, Ja Rulay, and El Dray. He respects the new format they defend but admits it presents a significant change for musicians of his generation.
Elito urged young people to not only listen to reparto or reggaeton but to also enjoy other genres of Cuban music.
Elito, son of the legendary Elio Revé Matos, keeps his father's tradition alive by leading one of Cuba's most prestigious orchestras: "Elio Revé y su Charangón". The group, founded in 1956, has been a cornerstone of the island's culture since its inception. It is renowned for its advocacy of changüí and Cuban popular dance music.
However, Elito Revé shows openness to the new genres dominating today's music scene, such as reggaeton, and acknowledges the talent of artists like El Taiger.
Carbajal Zaldívar resides in Miami but frequently travels to the island. He has established himself as one of the most recognized names in Cuban reggaeton, with his hits clearly reflecting the acceptance and popularity of his style.
Revé's words have sparked debate among traditional music defenders and reggaeton followers, showcasing how the landscape of this art form in Cuba continues to evolve every day.
Impact of El Taiger on Cuban Music
The following questions and answers address some key points about the influence of El Taiger on Cuban music, as highlighted by Elito Revé.
How has El Taiger changed the format of Cuban dance music?
El Taiger has revolutionized the format by starting songs with the tumbao right from the beginning, capturing listeners' attention immediately.
What is the significance of Elito Revé's remarks about El Taiger?
Elito Revé's praise of El Taiger highlights a generational shift in Cuban music, acknowledging the impact and popularity of reggaeton among young audiences.
Who are some other notable Cuban reggaeton artists mentioned by Elito Revé?
Elito Revé mentioned artists like Jorgito y Los Cuatro, El Yonky, Gente de Zona, Wampi, Wow Popy, Ja Rulay, and El Dray.