Just moments after the official account of José Manuel Carbajal, widely known as El Taiger, announced his death on Thursday, a wave of grief swept through the social media profiles of numerous artists and public figures.
Reggaeton artist El Micha shared on Instagram, "I will always remember you this way, old friend. It's so sad, my brother, so sad," alongside a joyful photo of El Taiger.
Seidy La Niña offered her condolences on the same platform, wishing peace for his soul, "May your soul rest in peace... Light for your spirit, strength for your family."
Singer Alexx Duvall expressed his sorrow by posting, "Not the best, but this is the last photo we took together. You always looked out for me like an older brother every time you saw me." He continued, "So many projects and advice you gave me, not knowing that days later this would happen. You left us too soon, 'gordo,' but your music will never be forgotten. You touched and united Cubans all around the world, the sentiment of a nation. Fly high, José, and rest alongside your beloved mother."
La Diosa de Cuba shared her condolences with the message, "RIP Taiger. Rest in peace and may you reunite with your parents once again. Condolences to the family."
Actress Yuliet Cruz Delgado joined in the expressions of sympathy, writing, "May God keep you, and may your mother embrace you with peace. Light for you. Artists are farewelled with a grand applause."
Singer Maykel Blanco conveyed his emotions on Instagram, stating, "Peace to your remains, El Taiger, and our heartfelt condolences to the family and fans. We are here for whatever is needed, as physically we can't be there due to prior international commitments. Rest in peace, José Manuel Carbajal Zaldívar."
Cuban singer Mawell shared his pain in a brief yet heartfelt message, "We will miss you. Asere, I can't believe it."
DJ Conds, who collaborated with El Taiger for 15 years, expressed his sorrow on Instagram, "I am at a loss for words. It feels terrible. We will miss you every day, my brother, my guide. I love you so much; we spent so many days creating together. I am devastated."
Songwriter Descemer Bueno also mourned El Taiger's passing, writing, "Today we lost a great artist. I never thought we would say goodbye at the peak of your career. We will miss you, José. Thank you for gifting us so many great songs and, personally, for the one we wrote together. I will never miss a chance to sing it to honor and remember you. Rest in peace."
El Yonki reminisced about their friendship, writing, "We fought till the end. Thank you for everything. A hug from Earth to Heaven, my bro..." along with a photo of them together in the backseat of a car.
The renowned Orquesta Aragón highlighted the loss, stating, "We deeply regret the passing of this significant figure in our country's urban music scene. Our sincere condolences and support to his family and close ones."
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