"He's truly made a difference," expressed El Taiger about Willy Chirino during a conversation with Enrique Santos, a sentiment that Santos later highlighted on social media following El Taiger's passing. In this interview, El Taiger shared how awe-inspiring it was to witness Chirino perform live, reflecting a deep respect and pride for what Chirino symbolized for the Cuban exile community and many who had migrated to the United States.
El Taiger emphasized, "Willy Chirino is the embodiment of the Cuban spirit beyond Cuba. It's one of the blessings and the ashé that our homeland holds." He recounted an unforgettable moment when Chirino attended one of his shows, leaving him speechless. Overwhelmed with emotion, El Taiger admitted he momentarily forgot the lyrics to "Ya vienen llegando" until Chirino's embrace brought them back to him.
He further commented, "Willy welcomed all of us, this wave of Cubans who arrived. He interacted with everyone, even amidst the critiques we face because he, as I see it, understands that while some of us might not be doing the right thing, or acting correctly, we're in the right place to do the right thing. He knows this and, in a way, he's passing the baton for us to continue his legacy, ensuring it goes beyond just a song." These words hold even more weight now, highlighting El Taiger's character as a loyal friend and colleague, a trait many have acknowledged recently.
This touching memory has resonated with thousands of his followers, who continue to mourn the reggaeton artist's loss. One fan commented, "It hurts as if I knew him my whole life," while another noted, "The admiration he had for Willy Chirino was incredible. RIP Taiger."
Reflecting on the tribute, Willy Chirino shared the video on his platforms, expressing deep sorrow over El Taiger's untimely demise. "He understood, without me ever having to say it, my approach towards Cuban artists from the other side since the 1980s. Yesterday, El Taiger left us, and it pains me deeply because behind his rebellious exterior, there was a kind-hearted man, a loyal friend, who knew how to connect with the audience through his music," Chirino added.
El Taiger passed away on October 10, following a critical week at Jackson Memorial Hospital in Miami after suffering a gunshot wound to the head. His sudden departure at just 37 years old has left a profound impact on artists, colleagues, friends, loved ones, and a vast network of fans worldwide.
The investigation into the incident is ongoing, with the police actively seeking key leads. Damián Valdez-Galloso, a person of interest, remains at large, and authorities have announced a $5,000 reward for information leading to his whereabouts. The Cuban community, alongside public figures like Ana María Polo and Osmani García, are calling for justice.