A recent TikTok video shared by @Cubanow01 has brought back cherished memories for fans of Cuban urban music. The clip revisits the momentous first journey of El Taiger to the United States, where he made his mark as part of the duo Los Desiguales. This pivotal trip occurred when José Manuel Carbajal Zaldívar, known by his stage name El Taiger, was just 26 years old. At that time, the duo was rapidly gaining traction in the Cuban music scene.
The video reveals El Taiger alongside fellow artists and Damián, who co-founded Los Desiguales with him after leaving the well-known group Los 4, led by his cousin Jorge Jr. This departure signified the beginning of a new musical endeavor, which quickly became one of the most successful and influential acts in Cuba's urban genre. Their distinctive energy and style allowed them to swiftly become key figures in the music world, captivating audiences both domestically and internationally.
Nostalgic Hits and Cultural Impact
Among their standout hits were tracks like “De maravilla,” “La contestadora,” “No me calientes,” and “Yo sigo aquí,” which became anthems of Cuban reggaeton during that era. Interestingly, at the time, José Manuel was recognized by the moniker El Príncipe, a stage name he would later use in his solo career.
The TikTok post has sparked a wave of nostalgia among Cuban reggaeton enthusiasts, who fondly recall the golden age of the genre and the significant impact Los Desiguales had on the island's urban music scene. A particularly discussed moment from the video was the phrase “The Prince was a fad, El Taiger is a feeling LBMA,” igniting debates about the lasting influence of certain artists from those years.
A Turning Point in El Taiger's Career
The trip to the United States marked a critical turning point for El Taiger, who would later embark on a successful solo career, establishing himself as a prominent figure in Cuban urban music. This journey back in time highlights how music has the power to immortalize moments and define generations, allowing fans to relive the memories of a period that shaped the direction of urban music in Cuba.
The video has garnered thousands of views and comments filled with nostalgia and admiration for that era, as urban genres began to take flight in Cuba and gain international recognition. Fans fondly remember the songs that defined a generation and the experiences shared during Los Desiguales' concerts.