Salsa legend Willie Colón has died at the age of 75, following an emergency hospitalization for respiratory issues at Lawrence Hospital in Bronxville, New York.
Born William Anthony Colón in New York in 1950, the musician of Puerto Rican descent is celebrated for his work with the iconic duos Willie Colón & Héctor Lavoe and Willie Colón & Rubén Blades. He is widely considered one of the most influential figures in the history of salsa music, a genre that continues to resonate with audiences worldwide.
Colón was a pioneer of the genre and a commercially successful artist, playing a key role in the burgeoning New York music scene associated with Fania Records. He was similarly known for adopting a “gangster” image on his album covers, a stylistic choice that predated its widespread popularity.
Beyond music, Colón was deeply involved in community and political activism, dedicating himself to the fight for civil rights. He served as president of the Association of Hispanic Arts, and during his tenure, he oversaw the construction of the Julia de Burgos Cultural Center in New York.
Colón also served on the board of directors of the Latin Commission on AIDS and the UN Pro-Immigrant Foundation, and as president of the Coalition for a Better New York.
In 2001, Colón was the sole Latino candidate for the position of New York City Public Advocate, running on the Democratic ticket.
Foto Marco Peláez
The American singer and trombonist was one of the most recognizable voices in Latin music, achieving international fame in the 1970s with songs that captured stories relatable to communities across Latin America. Among his most celebrated works is “La Murga,” which became a classic of the salsa repertoire, known for its infectious rhythm and trombone arrangements.
His influence on salsa and Latin rhythms is undeniable. His music resonated deeply with fans alongside fellow icons like Héctor Lavoe and Rubén Blades, with each track narrating a story brought to life by an orchestra and sung by enthusiastic crowds. Colón’s passing marks a significant loss for the Latin music community and beyond.
Colón leaves behind a rich musical legacy, with songs like “Oh Qué Será?”, “Talento de Televisión,” “Idilio,” “El Gran Varón,” and “El Día de Mi Suerte” having resonated with generations of Latinos.
