The passing of El Taiger has cast a pall not only over the Cuban reggaeton scene but has also sent ripples of grief through artists, friends, and fans worldwide. After several days in critical condition at Miami's Jackson Memorial Hospital, the reggaeton star succumbed on Thursday, October 10, leaving his followers and peers in a state of shock.
Cuban artists have flooded social media with tributes, and among them, rapper Aldo El Aldeano has shared poignant words, transcending past differences with El Taiger to honor him with respect and sorrow. In an Instagram story, Aldo posted a picture of the reggaeton artist alongside a heartfelt message: "What a tragedy, man! After so many battles, today I light a candle from my village to help illuminate your path. May you be with your parents and God. Safe travels," he wrote, underscoring that, despite past conflicts, human respect prevails over any feud.
This message comes just days after Aldo expressed his support during El Taiger's fight for life. The rapper had set aside months of public disputes, including a fierce diss track filled with insults and mockery, to reach out with words of encouragement: "I deeply regret what happened to you, man, hope you recover. Strength to you, your children, your family, your friends, and your fans," he stated at the time.
Community Mourning and Unending Tributes
Aldo's farewell is one among many from other Cuban artists who have been unable to contain their sorrow over El Taiger's loss. Friends and fans have been paying their respects, gathering at Jackson Memorial in Miami, where he was hospitalized after the shooting that claimed his life. Online, tributes, anecdotes, remembrances, expressions of grief, and condolences for his family, particularly his daughters and grandmother, continue unabated.
El Taiger's legacy will forever be etched in the history of Cuban reggaeton, and his departure leaves a void that will be hard to fill.