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A$AP Rocky Says Rihanna Inspires Him at Footwear Awards

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News Americas, New York, NY, December 5, 2024: A$AP Rocky took a moment to celebrate Rihanna, his partner and muse, during his acceptance speech at the 38th Annual Footwear News Achievement Awards (FNAAs) in New York City last night. The rapper received the Collaboration of the Year award for his successful partnership with Puma but made sure to shine the spotlight on Rihanna, calling her his inspiration.

Barbadian singer/actress Rihanna and partner us rapper A$AP Rocky arrive for the 38th Annual Footwear News Achievement Awards at Cipriani South Street in New York on December 4, 2024. (Photo by LEONARDO MUNOZ/AFP via Getty Images)

“I was inspired when my lady received this thing almost a decade ago,” Rocky said, referring to Rihanna’s previous FNAA honor. “Her doing that, she inspires me a lot.” He invited Rihanna and the Puma team to join him on stage, calling the recognition “one of the best accomplishments ever.”

The couple, who share two children, RZA and Riot, lit up the evening with their stylish appearance and Rocky’s heartfelt words. His speech balanced humor and gratitude as he reflected on his influence in the sneaker world, joking, “I thought there was something missing in the market—and it was me,” before adding, “I wouldn’t be anything without everybody in the team involved.”

Barbadian singer/actress Rihanna at the 38th Annual Footwear News Achievement Awards at Cipriani South Street in New York on December 4, 2024. (Photo by LEONARDO MUNOZ/AFP via Getty Images)

The FNAAs, held at Cipriani South Street, celebrated the best in footwear innovation and influence. Other honorees included Kenneth Cole (Lifetime Achievement Award), Bjørn Gulden of Adidas (Person of the Year), Angel Reese (Style Influencer of the Year), and brands like New Balance and On, which were named Companies of the Year.

Rocky’s heartfelt tribute to Rihanna added a personal and memorable touch to the evening, highlighting the intersection of creativity and partnership that drives the sneaker industry.

The annual Footwear News Achievement Awards, famously known as the “Shoe Oscars,” honor the visionaries shaping the footwear industry. For nearly four decades, this star-studded event has celebrated trendsetters, style icons, innovative brands, dedicated philanthropists, rising talents, and seasoned industry leaders. A cornerstone of the footwear calendar, the awards have been a stage for groundbreaking moments, fostering game-changing collaborations and historic partnerships that redefine the industry.

Dancehall Icon Vybz Kartel To Return To The Stage This Month

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News Americas, New York, NY, December 4 2024: After 13 years behind bars, dancehall legend Vybz Kartel is reclaiming his throne with a triumphant return to the stage. The iconic artist, recently released from prison and nominated for his first GRAMMY Award, will headline the highly anticipated Freedom Street Concert on December 31, 2024, at Kingston’s National Stadium in Jamaica.

Vybz Kartel

This New Year’s Eve celebration marks Kartel’s first live performance in over a decade and promises to be a historic moment for the dancehall genre.

Freedom Street Concert: A Historic Event

Produced by Downsound Entertainment, the team behind Reggae Sumfest, the Freedom Street Concert will feature a star-studded lineup, including Spice, Popcaan, Skillibeng, Tommy Lee, Chronic Law, and Shawn Storm. Kartel’s sons, Likkle Vybz and Likkle Addi, along with Lisa Hyper and Gaza Indy, will also grace the stage, making the event a true celebration of the Worl’ Boss’s return.

Tickets are available online at freedomstreetlive.com and at retail outlets across Jamaica, with multiple pricing tiers to accommodate fans worldwide.

STR8 VYBZ Rum: A New Venture

In addition to his return to live performances, Kartel has ventured into the spirits industry with the launch of his STR8 VYBZ Rum brand. Partnering with TJ Records and The House of Angostura, Kartel’s rum line features bold flavors like Fever (white overproof), Ramping Shop (spiced rum), Electric (white rum), and Unstoppable (dark rum).

“STR8 VYBZ is more than just a rum; it’s a movement,” Kartel said, emphasizing the brand’s reflection of his music and culture. The rums, produced in Trinidad and Tobago, are available across the Caribbean, U.S., and the U.K., adding another dimension to the artist’s growing legacy.

GRAMMY Recognition and New Music

Kartel’s prolific output has remained unmatched, even during his incarceration. This year, his Party With Me EP, released before his release from prison, earned him his first-ever GRAMMY nomination for Best Reggae Album. Fans can also look forward to the deluxe 10th-anniversary reissue of his pivotal album, Viking (Vybz Is King), in January 2025, featuring bonus tracks alongside hits like Unstoppable and Dancehall.

Vybz Kartel’s Enduring Legacy

From chart-topping hits like Romping Shop with Spice to his cultural anthem Clarks, Vybz Kartel has consistently shaped dancehall’s evolution and brought Jamaican music to the global stage. With Freedom Street, the GRAMMY nomination, and his entrepreneurial ventures, Kartel continues to embody the resilience and innovation of Jamaican culture.

Fans worldwide are ready to celebrate the return of the Worl’ Boss in what promises to be an unforgettable New Year’s Eve event.

US-Based Soca Artist Protests Vybz Kartel’s Carnival Friday Performance With Hunger Strike

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News Americas, NEW YORK, NY, Fri. November 29, 2024: U.S.-based Trinidadian Soca artist Kevon “Yankey Boy” Heath has launched a hunger strike to protest Jamaican dancehall star Vybz Kartel’s scheduled performance on Carnival Friday 2025 in Trinidad and Tobago.

Kartel, known offstage as Adidja Palmer, is set to appear at the One Caribbean Music Festival on February 28, 2025, the same night as the highly anticipated Soca Monarch competition.

Vybz Kartel

Expressing his frustration on Instagram, Yankey Boy acknowledged his admiration for Kartel but voiced concerns about the event’s timing. “Soca Monarch is a platform for our upcoming artists to showcase their talent. Bringing Kartel on this night could overshadow our culture,” he stated.

He also criticized the blending of dancehall and Soca during key Caribbean events, noting experiences at Labour Day in Brooklyn and Miami Carnival. “This isn’t representing our culture. It’s a disservice to Soca,” he said.

Promoters Respond
In a statement, the organizers of the One Caribbean Music Festival clarified that the event will feature a diverse lineup with 80% Soca and 20% other genres. “Our event aims to celebrate the best of Caribbean music while respecting Trinidad’s rich Carnival traditions,” the statement read.

Organizers also dismissed a viral social media video confirming Kartel’s performance, emphasizing that it was not officially released by the festival. Details of the full lineup will be announced in the coming weeks.

Mixed Reactions from the Industry
The debate has sparked widespread discussion on social media and airwaves. Soca star Fayann Lyons-Alvarez defended the inclusion of dancehall acts, highlighting the unity among Caribbean artists. “We’ve been part of reggae shows and festivals. It’s about promoting culture and celebrating our shared heritage,” she said.

Lyons-Alvarez dismissed claims that Kartel’s presence would diminish Soca’s prominence, noting, “Soca Monarch hasn’t been held for years, yet there wasn’t this level of outcry. This festival is a showcase, not a takeover.”

As discussions continue, the One Caribbean Music Festival organizers say they remain committed to presenting a celebration of the region’s diverse music and culture, ensuring Soca remains a focal point for Carnival 2025.

Beres Hammond’s Just A Man Reissued for RSD Black Friday

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News Americas, New York, NY, November 28, 2024: Jamaican legendary reggae crooner, Beres Hammond’s Just A Man is set for an exclusive reissue on Black Friday, tomorrow, November 29, 2024.

Beres Hammond – Just A Man

It will be released through 17 North Parade, an imprint of VP Records, in collaboration with Harmony House, as part of RSD Black Friday. This limited-edition release features a newly remastered colored vinyl pressing, complete with the original “Rolls Royce” cover art—a collector’s gem.

Originally released by Joe Gibbs in 1979, Just A Man highlights Hammond’s early versatility, blending reggae with funk, R&B, and disco. The album, produced in collaboration with Willie Lindo and Ivor Lindo, includes tracks like “Do This World a Favour” and “Keep My Wheel Turning,” which remain beloved on the Funk & Soul scene as 2-step dancefloor classics.

This reissue offers fans a fresh opportunity to experience Hammond’s early musical experimentation, supported by an all-star lineup of musicians, including Val Douglas, Mikey Chung, Dean Fraser, Clive Hunt, Harold Butler, Robbie Lyn, and Pam Hall. The remastering enhances the album’s intricate arrangements, delivering an enriched listening experience.

With a career spanning over four decades, Hammond is celebrated as one of reggae’s iconic voices, known for hits like “Rock Away” and “They Gonna Talk.” Honored with the Order of Jamaica and an honorary doctorate from the University of the West Indies, his influence on reggae and lovers rock remains unmatched.

Just A Man will be available at participating RSD Black Friday stores.

Miss Trinidad and Tobago Crowned Miss Congeniality 2024

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News Americas, New York, NY, November 16, 2024: Trinidad and Tobago’s Miss Universe 2024 delegate, Jenelle Thongs, has been crowned Miss Congeniality at this year’s Nov. 16th competition, held in Mexico City, Mexico, a recognition that celebrates her warmth, kindness, and ability to connect meaningfully with others. The award is given to the contestant deemed most approachable and kindhearted by her peers.

Miss Trinidad and Tobago Jenelle Thongs Crowned Miss Congeniality 2024. (Miss Universe image)

Despite facing criticism on social media about her wardrobe, appearance, and age, the 32-year-old Thongs has stood firm, reminding everyone of her confidence and purpose.

Responding to Critics

In a post on the official Miss Trinidad and Tobago Facebook page, Thongs addressed the negativity with grace and determination:
“I’m sorry to disappoint the haters, but I am that girl! I will never dim my light for anyone else.”

In a heartfelt four-minute video, Thongs revealed that the social media backlash initially caught her off guard but became a source of strength: “Hearing things about yourself right before stepping onto the big stage can affect your psyche, but I chose to channel it into something positive. Your words don’t get to me; they fuel me.”

Her fellow contestants also rallied behind her, with Miss Cambodia and Miss Lebanon praising her authenticity. Miss Cambodia declared, “Yes, she’s the best, you guys don’t know.”

A Title of Warmth and Connection

Thongs’ authenticity and resilience shone through during the preliminary rounds, earning her the coveted Miss Congeniality title. Reflecting on the honor, she shared:“I am so blessed and honored to be given this award because it truly means I achieved what I set out to do—to make lasting connections and impressions with the girls, the team, and everyone involved.”

The Miss Universe organization shared her joy, posting:“We’re thrilled to announce Janelle Thongs as our Miss Congeniality winner! Her kindness and warmth have captured our hearts.”

Championing Empowerment Through ‘The Sprouting Onion’

Beyond the pageant, Thongs highlighted her personal project, The Sprouting Onion, which empowers individuals by addressing psychological and cognitive layers to promote personal and community growth. “This win is not just for me but for all of us as we champion women’s empowerment and respect for cultural differences,” she added.

A Message to Trinidad and Tobago

Thongs expressed gratitude to her supporters in Trinidad and Tobago, sharing a heartfelt message on social media: “Journeying with me to the universe has been nothing short of a dream. I bleed red, white, and black for you, living our national motto of unity every day on this global stage.”

The 73rd Miss Universe competition, which took place at the Arena CDMX in Mexico City, was won by Miss Denmark, Victoria Kjær Theilvig. The first runner up was the first runner-up Miss Nigeria Chidimma Adetshina while Miss Mexico Maria Fernanda Beltran was the second runner-up.

These Are The Caribbean and Latin American Contestants In Miss Universe 2024

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News Americas, New York, NY, November 15, 2024: The stage is set for the 73rd Miss Universe pageant, which will crown a new winner tomorrow, November 16, 2024, in Mexico City, Mexico. Among the 130 contestants from around the globe are a dazzling array of competitors from the Caribbean and Latin America, each vying for the prestigious title through events including personal statements, in-depth interviews, and the highly anticipated evening gown and swimwear segments.

Preliminaries and Final Selection Process

The journey to the crown begins with the preliminaries, where all 130 contestants will compete in swimwear and showcase traditional costumes representing their countries. Unlike previous years, the preliminary phase will not feature a gala runway show, focusing instead on the swimwear and costume presentations.

From this round, the selection committee will narrow the field to 25 finalists. Four additional finalists will be chosen regionally, representing Latin America and the Caribbean, Europe, Africa, and Asia and Oceania. A public vote will determine the 30th and final spot.

Miss Trinidad and Tobago Jenelle Thongs participates in the The 73rd Miss Universe Competition – Preliminary Competition at Arena Ciudad de Mexico on November 14, 2024 in Mexico City, Mexico. (Photo by Hector Vivas/Getty Images)

Miss Guyana Ariana Blaize participates in the The 73rd Miss Universe Competition – Preliminary Competition at Arena Ciudad de Mexico on November 14, 2024 in Mexico City, Mexico. (Photo by Hector Vivas/Getty Images)

Miss Cuba Marianela Ancheta participates in the The 73rd Miss Universe Competition – Preliminary Competition at Arena Ciudad de Mexico on November 14, 2024 in Mexico City, Mexico. (Photo by Hector Vivas/Getty Images)

Miss Jamaica Rachel Silvera participates in the The 73rd Miss Universe Competition – Preliminary Competition at Arena Ciudad de Mexico on November 14, 2024 in Mexico City, Mexico. (Photo by Hector Vivas/Getty Images)

Miss Saint Lucia Skye Faucher participates in the The 73rd Miss Universe Competition – Preliminary Competition at Arena Ciudad de Mexico on November 14, 2024 in Mexico City, Mexico. (Photo by Hector Vivas/Getty Images)

Miss U.S. Virgin Islands Stephany Andujar participates in the The 73rd Miss Universe Competition – Preliminary Competition at Arena Ciudad de Mexico on November 14, 2024 in Mexico City, Mexico. (Photo by Hector Vivas/Getty Images)

Caribbean and Latin American Competitors

The Caribbean and Latin America are well-represented this year with a diverse group of contestants:

Argentina – Magali Benejam, 29

Aruba – Anouk Eman, 32

Bahamas – Selvinique Wright, 32

Belize – Halima Hoy, 30

Bolivia – Juliana Barrientos, 27

Bonaire – Ruby Pouchet, 29

Brazil – Luana Cavalcante, 25

British Virgin Islands – Deyounce Lowenfield, 20

Cayman Islands – Raegan Rutty, 22

Costa Rica – Elena Hidalgo, 32

Cuba – Marianela Ancheta, 31

Curaçao – Kimberly de Boer, 19

Dominican Republic – Celinee Santos, 24

Guadeloupe – Coraly Desplan, 20

Guatemala – Ana Gabriela Villanueva, 22

Guyana – Ariana Blaize, 26

Honduras – Stephanie Cam, 32

Jamaica – Rachel Silvera, 25

Mexico – María Fernanda Beltrán, 24

Nicaragua – , Geyssell Garcia, 29

Paraguay – Naomi Mendez, 32

Peru – Tatiana Calmell, 30

Puerto Rico – Jennifer Colin, 36

Saint Lucia – Skye Faucher, 26

Suriname – Pooja Chotkan, 23

Trinidad and Tobago – Jenelle Thongs, 32

Turks and Caicos – Raynae Myers, 23

Uruguay – Yanina Lucas, 28

U.S. Virgin Islands – Stephany Andujar, 28

Venezuela – Ileana Márquez, 28

An Unexpected Disqualification

Miss Panama, Italy Mora, was disqualified ahead of the competition, reducing the number of contestants to 130.

The Grand Finale

The final event, held at Arena CDMX in Mexico City, will culminate in the crowning of the 73rd Miss Universe. With the Caribbean and Latin American competitors bringing beauty, talent, and cultural pride to the stage, all eyes will be on the region to see if one of its representatives takes home the crown.

This year’s pageant promises to be a memorable celebration of global beauty and diversity.

Belize Born Rapper Shyne Opens Up About Diddy, Prison, And Redemption In New Documentary

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News Americas, New York, NY, November 15, 2024: Belize-born rapper-turned-politician Moses “Shyne” Barrow is finally sharing his side of the story about his decade-long prison sentence and his connection to Sean “Diddy” Combs.

In the upcoming Hulu documentary The Honorable Shyne, premiering on November 18th, the film delves into Barrow’s rise to fame, his fall from grace, and his eventual transformation into a political leader in Belize.

Shyne visits SiriusXM Studios on November 14, 2024 in New York City. (Photo by Roy Rochlin/Getty Images)

The Night That Changed Everything

Barrow, then a rising star in Diddy’s Bad Boy Records, recounts the fateful night in 1999 that led to his conviction. A nightclub shooting in New York City injured three people and resulted in Barrow’s arrest alongside Combs and then-girlfriend Jennifer Lopez. While Combs and Lopez made bail and Combs was later acquitted, Barrow was convicted and served eight years of a 10-year sentence before being deported to Belize.

Reflecting on that night, Barrow reveals in the documentary: “I went to Club New York with two weapons on me. A disagreement broke out, and I was caught in the middle. One of the men involved reached for his weapon, and that’s when I reached for mine.”

A Fallout with Diddy

In the documentary, Barrow accuses Combs of abandoning him during the trial and manipulating the legal process to secure his own acquittal. “When I was in The Tombs, Puff’s lawyers advised him to distance himself from me. I was left to rot in prison while he moved on,” Barrow says. He alleges that Combs’ lawyers orchestrated witness testimonies to ensure Barrow was convicted.

Barrow recalls confronting Combs years later about the incident, saying, “You apologized back then, and I’ve healed, but I won’t restate the facts. If it weren’t for you, I would’ve made the case. I would’ve walked just like you.”

A spokesperson for Combs has categorically denied these allegations, calling them “unequivocally false.”

Life After Prison

After his release, Barrow left the music industry behind, embracing his Jewish faith and turning to politics. He became the leader of the opposition in Belize, using his platform to advocate for his community. Despite making a public appearance with Combs at the BET Lifetime Achievement tribute, Barrow says their reunion was for Belize’s benefit, not personal reconciliation.

“When the allegations about Diddy assaulting Cassie surfaced, I had to distance myself,” Barrow explains in the documentary, referencing his condemnation of Combs following the release of disturbing videos.

A Story of Redemption

Barrow emphasizes that his story is one of integrity and resilience. “I didn’t betray my friends or snitch. I sacrificed my career, my life, and my family to uphold my integrity and humanity,” he says.

The Honorable Shyne showcases Barrow’s journey from a troubled youth in Brooklyn to a hip-hop sensation, and finally to a respected political figure. The documentary sheds light on his struggles, triumphs, and his ongoing mission to redefine his legacy.

Rihanna Brings Fenty Beauty “Home”

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News Americas, New York, NY, Tues. Nov. 12, 2024: Rihanna’s iconic beauty brand, Fenty Beauty, is now available in the Caribbean, marking a meaningful homecoming for the Barbadian superstar. The Caribbean launch includes nine islands, including Barbados, where Rihanna was born, grew up and first found inspiration for her music and brand.

Rihanna poses in front of own ad campaign at bus stop in Barbados bearing mother’s name after Fenty Beauty is launched in Caribbean hometown. (IG image)

This expansion not only introduces Fenty Beauty’s inclusive products to Caribbean consumers but also strengthens Rihanna’s connection to her roots, celebrating her heritage and commitment to diversity.

Since its inception, Fenty Beauty has set new industry standards for inclusivity, launching with 40 foundation shades and expanding to 50 to meet the needs of diverse skin tones. Now, with its Caribbean launch, the brand provides beauty options for consumers who have long awaited a line that reflects their unique skin tones and styles. The expansion brings Fenty Beauty’s popular products like the Pro Filt’r Soft Matte Foundation, Gloss Bomb, and Stunna Lip Paint to islands where representation in global beauty has often been limited.

For Rihanna, the Caribbean launch is deeply personal. In a heartfelt speech at the launch event in Barbados, she shared: “Coming back home, where I first met and appreciated beauty, means everything to me. Fenty Beauty and Fenty Skin were inspired by my people, my family, and my friends here in Barbados.” Her brand’s ethos resonates strongly in the Caribbean, where Rihanna’s focus on inclusivity and empowerment strikes a powerful chord.

The Fenty Caribbean launch featured events with product demos, makeup tutorials, and exclusive consultations, allowing local fans and influencers to experience the brand firsthand. This expansion provides opportunities for local beauty experts and entrepreneurs to engage with a world-renowned brand, establishing Fenty Beauty as a new staple in the Caribbean market.

Fenty Skin and Fenty Fragrance and Fenty Hair will be available to buy in nine islands including the singer’s home country of Barbados. The other countries are Antigua, Aruba, the Bahamas, Bermuda, Cayman Islands, Trinidad and & Tobago, Grenada and Sint Maarten.

With this latest milestone, Rihanna continues to impact the Caribbean beauty landscape, creating opportunities and celebrating cultural pride. By bringing her brand to the islands, Rihanna’s Fenty Beauty underscores her dedication to representation, inclusivity, and honoring her Caribbean heritage.

Shoppers can expect to find the products at these selected retailers: Lipstick Antigua, Maggy’s Aruba, John Bull Ltd Bahamas, Bridgetown Duty Free, 59 Front, Bermuda, Kirk Freeport from Cayman Islands and Vendome in Trinidad and Tobago.

The Grammy Nominations For Best Reggae, Latin, African Music Are In

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News Americas, NEW YORK, NY, Fri. Nov. 8, 2024: The 2025 Grammy nominations are in even though the ceremony won’t be until next February. Here are the best albums released minutes ago for Best Reggae Album, as well as Best Latin Pop, Best Latin Jazz , Best African Music Performance and Best Global Music performance. The 2025 Grammy Awards will be held on Feb 2, 2025 at the Crypto Arena in LA.

Jamaican dancehall star Shenseea, seen here onstage during day 2 of the Afro Nation Detroit 2024 Festival at Bedrock’s Douglass Site on August 18, 2024 in Detroit, Michigan, is among the 2025 Reggae Grammy nominees. (Photo by Aaron J. Thornton/Getty Images)

Best Reggae Album
Collie Buddz – Take It Easy
Shenseea – Never Gets Late Here
Various Artists – Bob Marley: One Love – Music Inspired By the Film (Deluxe)
Vybz Kartel – Party With Me
The Wailers – Evolution

Best Latin Jazz Album
Donald Vega Featuring Lewis Nash, John Patitucci & Luisito Quintero- As I Travel
Eliane Elias – Time and Again
Hamilton de Holanda & Gonzalo Rubalcaba – Collab
Horacio ‘El Negro’ Hernandez, John Beasley & Jose Gola – El Trio: Live in Italy
Michel Camilo & Tomatito – Spain Forever Again

Best Latin Pop Album
Anitta – Funk Generation
Kali Uchis – Orquídeas
Kany García – García
Luis Fonsi – El Viaje
Shakira – Las Mujeres Ya No Lloran

Best Música Urbana Album
Bad Bunny – Nadie Sabe Lo Que Va a Pasar Mañana
Feid – Ferxxocalipsis
J Balvin – Rayo
Residente – Las Letras Ya No Importan
Young Miko – Att.

Best Latin Rock or Alternative Album
Cimafunk – Pa’ Tu Cuerpa
El David Aguilar – Compita del Destino
Mon Laferte – Autopoiética
Nathy Peluso – Grasa
Rawayana – ¿Quién Trae las Cornetas?

Best Música Mexicana Album (Including Tejano)
Carín León – Boca Chueca, Vol. 1
Chiquis – Diamantes
Jessi Uribe – De Lejitos
Peso Pluma – Éxodo

Best Tropical Latin Album
Juan Luis Guerra 4.40 – Radio Güira
Kiki Valera – Vacilón Santiaguero
Marc Anthony – Muevense
Sheila E. – Bailar
Tony Succar & Mimy Succar – Alma, Corazón y Salsa (Live at Gran Teatro Nacional)

Best Global Music Performance
Angélique Kidjo & Soweto Gospel Choir – Sunlight to My Soul
Arooj Aftab – Raat Ki Rani
Jacob Collier Featuring Anoushka Shankar & Varijashree Venugopal – A Rock Somewhere
Masa Takumi Featuring Ron Korb, Noshir Mody & Dale Edward Chung – Kashira
Rocky Dawuni – Rise
Sheila E. Featuring Gloria Estefan & Mimy Succar – Bemba Colorá

Best African Music Performance
Asake & Wizkid – MMS
Burna Boy – Higher
Chris Brown Featuring Davido & Lojay – Sensational
Tems – Love Me JeJe
Yemi Alade – Tomorrow

Best Global Music Album
Antonio Rey – Historias de un Flamenco
Ciro Hurtado – Paisajes
Matt B & Royal Philharmonic Orchestra – Alkebulan II
Rema – Heis
Tems – Born in the Wild

El Taiger’s Alleged Killer Extradited

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News Americas, NEW YORK, NY, Fri. Nov. 8, 2024: The man accused of fatally shooting Cuban reggaeton star José Manuel Carbajal Zaldívar, known as El Taiger, was extradited to Miami-Dade County on Wednesday, Nov. 6, 2024, following his arrest in New York.

Damian Valdez-Galloso, 49, was taken into custody in Brooklyn on Oct. 29th by federal marshals for failing to register as a sex offender, according to Miami Police Chief Manuel Morales. Valdez-Galloso is a convicted felon, previously found guilty of sexual battery on a minor in 2013.

FLASHBACK – El Taiger Tribute performing at iHeartRadio Fiesta Latina at Kaseya Center on October 26, 2024 in Miami, Florida. (Photo by Romain Maurice/Getty Images)

Valdez-Galloso now faces charges of second-degree murder, tampering with evidence, and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. He is currently held at Turner Guilford Correctional Center with a $12,500 bond for tampering with evidence and failing to register as a sex offender, while bonds for additional charges are pending.

Zaldívar, 37, a popular reggaeton artist with over a million followers on Instagram and 385 million YouTube views, was discovered shot in a car in Miami on Oct. 3. Following a month-long investigation, Miami detectives identified Valdez-Galloso as the alleged shooter, Morales reported.

According to an arrest report, at approximately 5:30 a.m. on Oct. 3, Zaldívar was at a house in Hialeah when Valdez-Galloso opened the door and shot him in the head. Valdez-Galloso allegedly dragged Zaldívar into a 2023 Mercedes-Benz, cleaned up the scene, and changed clothes before driving him to Northwest Ninth Avenue and Northwest 17th Street. First responders arrived about 45 minutes later and transported Zaldívar to Jackson Memorial Hospital, where he passed away on Oct. 10.

The Miami-Dade Medical Examiner’s Office has ruled the death a homicide. Valdez-Galloso fled to New York, where he was apprehended and reportedly gave officials a statement regarding the incident. It remains unclear how he and Zaldívar were connected.