Willie Colón, the iconic trombonist, composer, and performer of salsa classics like Idilio and Oh Qué Será, who achieved great success alongside singers Héctor Lavoe and Rubén Blades, has died at the age of 75. He passed away Saturday in a New York hospital, his birthplace.
“This proves with profound sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved husband, father, and renowned musician, Willie Colón,” his family said in a statement. “He departed peacefully this morning, surrounded by his loving family. While we mourn his absence, we similarly rejoice in the eternal gift of his music and the cherished memories he created, which will live on forever.”
“Our family is deeply grateful for your prayers and support during this time of grief,” the statement continued. “We kindly request privacy as we navigate our bereavement.” The announcement came from the family of William Anthony Colón Román, the singer of El gran varón, who was born April 28, 1950, in the Bronx, New York.
Also a poet, arranger, producer, and musical director, Colón began his musical career at age 16, recording the album El Malo with Héctor Lavoe in 1967. This collaboration formed one of the most influential duos in salsa music, released under the Fani label. Colón and Lavoe recorded hits such as Calle Luna, Calle Sol, CheChe Colé, and El día de mi suerte, establishing Colón as a key figure in the 1970s salsa scene. His work helped define a generation of Latin music and continues to resonate with fans today.
Colón solidified his place as one of the most important artists in the salsa genre with over 32 albums recorded, nine Gold Records, and five Platinum Records, selling more than eight million records worldwide.
