“They Scammed Me..” Ex-Manager of Shakira Lost $600,000,000 in Cryptocurrency Scandal and Lives Off on Rice and Eggs

Shakira has been in the music industry for several decades. She released her first-ever music album back in 1995. Since then, the Colombian singer has never looked back. She has had the courage to try her hand at several music genres. Due to that, she has also managed to acquire a very diversified fan base. The Colombian singer has had several key people that have helped her along the way.

One of those people is Jairo Martinez, her long-time friend, and ex-manager. In retrospect, Martinez is indirectly credited for launching the singer’s career.

In the latest interview, Martinez shockingly opened up on the scam that cost him a fortune. Recently, he was seemingly the victim of a cryptocurrency racket and lost a humongous chunk of money.

How did Jairo Martinez lose so much money?

Jairo Martinez is a renowned celebrity representative. Unfortunately, the man who helped kickstart Shakira’s career was a victim of a major fraud. In an exclusive interview with Vanguardia, he assertively said, “You think you know them all, but there’s always someone more cunning than you. You never finish getting to know people”.

He continued, “I handed over $600 million and was scammed. Keeping my job has helped me to meet the debts I have that are many”. He also revealed that he was overconfident about investing in cryptocurrencies.  Even after the major financial hit, Martinez continues working hard to pay off his debts.

But the cryptocurrency scam has majorly dented his bank accounts. Even after having such a successful career, he is currently living on a ‘rice and egg’ diet at the age of 70. Apart from Shakira, Martinez has rubbed shoulders with influential names like Ricky Martin, Noemi Sanin, and many more.

READ MORE: “This Doesn’t Work in America No?” – Shakira Rightly Predicted the Global Smartphone Culture in a 20-Year-Old Resurfaced Footage

This begs the question; how did Martinez have an impact on Shakira’s life?

How did Martinez help Shakira launch her music career?

Back in 1995, Shakira was just trying to establish her foundation in the global music industry. The young Colombian was definitely in need of some professional advice. That’s when her long-time friend talent manager and promoter, Jairo Martinez came into the picture. Martinez used to be in direct contact with Emilio Estefan. At that time, Estefan was the most renowned producer in the Hispanic market.

Naturally, Martinez thought that Estefan would be the perfect fit for Shakira’s career which was at a nascent stage. After meeting Shakira, Estefan saw the Waka–Waka singer’s pure potential, especially to break into the US Latin music market.

However, Jairo Martinez didn’t leave Shakira’s side after introducing her to Estefan. He became the director of public relations and promotions at Estefan’s company. He then helped a number of musicians and celebrities while also helping Shakira aim for the stars.

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What do you think about Jairo Martinez losing $600 million on a cryptocurrency scam? Let us know in the comments below.