Cuban singer Alexander Delgado, a founding member of Gente de Zona, took to social media this Thursday to express his deep sorrow following the official confirmation of El Taiger's passing. El Taiger had been hospitalized for a week at Miami's Jackson Memorial Hospital. "In shock and with a broken heart from the news last Thursday until today," Alexander penned on Instagram, sharing a photo of the two smiling together, a testament to their deep friendship.
Delgado lamented the loss of the singer, stating, "Everyone deserves a second chance. This wasn’t the way for a warrior like you to leave, but as your lyrics said, you're 'A Fighter' and you fought till the end." He reminisced about the many facets of El Taiger's career, noting that people knew him in different ways, but emphasized, "We're not God to judge anyone. I remember the José Manuel Carbajal Zaldívar I met 20 years ago. Brother, and the best in the world as you used to say."
Alexander also highlighted the significant loss this death represents not just for loved ones but for the urban music scene: "Cubans, music, your colleagues, friends, and the genre have lost a great talent." In a heartfelt conclusion, the artist sent his condolences and prayers: "Fly high and rest in peace, José, your music will live on with us."
Tributes from Fellow Artists
Randy Malcom, another member of Gente de Zona, shared his disbelief on Instagram: "I still can't believe it… José, your music will continue to play on every corner." Alongside a photo of them sharing the stage, he wrote, "Today I say goodbye remembering your joy and every happy moment we shared. All our prayers are with your family and loved ones. Fly high and rest in peace, José Manuel."
The members of Gente de Zona join the mourning of many other artists who have shared heartfelt messages of condolence on social media. In addition to the virtual tributes, hundreds of fans gathered outside the Jackson Memorial Hospital in Miami, where the renowned Cuban reggaeton artist passed away, to mourn his death.