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Willie Colón, the influential Puerto Rican salsa musician, trombonist, and producer, has died at the age of 75. His family announced his passing on Saturday, February 21, 2026, via a post on his official Facebook page. Colón’s death marks a significant loss for the Latin music world, leaving behind a legacy of innovation and iconic songs that defined a generation.

The family’s statement expressed deep sorrow, noting that Colón “departed peacefully this morning, surrounded by his beloved family.” They also acknowledged the outpouring of support and requested privacy during their time of grief, while celebrating the “eternal gift of his music and the cherished memories he created.” Colón’s career spanned decades, and his impact on salsa music is immeasurable, blending musical talent with a deep connection to his Puerto Rican heritage.

Born William Anthony Colón Román on April 28, 1950, in the Bronx, New York, Colón grew up immersed in the vibrant Puerto Rican community of the borough. He consistently identified with his Puerto Rican roots, a cultural identity instilled by his parents. From a young age, he demonstrated a passion for music, initially learning to play the flute before mastering the clarinet, trumpet, and the trombone – the instrument he became most known for. According to the Fundación Nacional para la Cultura Popular, a cultural organization based in San Juan, Puerto Rico, Colón recorded his first album, “El malo,” in 1967 at the age of 16, collaborating with the late Héctor Lavoe. This partnership would develop into one of the most important in the history of Fania Records and salsa music.

A Pioneering Partnership with Héctor Lavoe

Colón’s collaboration with Héctor Lavoe was pivotal in shaping the sound of salsa. Together, they popularized a string of hits including “Calle Luna, calle Sol,” “Abuelita,” “Ah, ah, oh, no,” “Ghana’e,” “El día de mi suerte,” “La murga,” and “Juana Peña.” These songs resonated deeply with audiences, capturing the energy and spirit of the Latin community in New York and beyond. The duo’s innovative arrangements and Colón’s distinctive trombone playing helped to elevate salsa to new heights of popularity.

Expanding the Boundaries of Salsa

Colón’s musical vision extended beyond his work with Lavoe. In 1977, he introduced Panamanian singer Rubén Blades to audiences with the album “Metiendo mano.” A year later, in 1978, he produced “Siembra” alongside Blades, an album widely considered one of the best-selling salsa albums of all time. This collaboration demonstrated Colón’s ability to identify and nurture new talent, further solidifying his role as a visionary producer. Throughout his career, Colón worked with other prominent artists, including Celia Cruz, contributing to four albums with the “Queen of Salsa.”

Colón’s discography boasts an impressive collection of over 32 albums, earning him nine Gold records and five Platinum records. He reportedly sold over 30 million records worldwide, with 16 albums alongside Lavoe, six with Blades, and four with Celia Cruz. He received eight Grammy nominations in the Tropical category, recognizing his significant contributions to the genre. Beyond music, Colón also ventured into acting, appearing in films and television shows such as “Vigilante,” “The Last Fight,” “Salsa,” “Miami Vice,” and the telenovela “La intrusa.”

Tributes from Fellow Musicians

Following the news of Colón’s death, numerous artists expressed their condolences. Rubén Blades, a longtime friend and collaborator, confirmed the passing on X, stating he was “resisting believing” the news. He extended his sympathies to Colón’s wife, Julia, his children, family, and loved ones, promising to share more about Colón’s legacy at a later time. Puerto Rican singer Víctor Manuelle posted on Facebook, calling Colón “El malo del Bronx” and praising him as a “producer and visionary” responsible for a new sound in salsa. Jerry Rivera, also from Puerto Rico, expressed his respect for Colón, noting how he “turned the trombone into a flag and the neighborhood into a symphony.” Dominican musician Wilfrido Vargas described Colón as a “giant” whose music impacted the Caribbean and the world, calling him a “revolution, identity, and artistic courage.”

Willie Colón’s last performance in Puerto Rico was on August 9, 2025, at a sold-out concert in San Juan with the Puerto Rico Philharmonic Orchestra, conducted by Ángel ‘Cucco’ Peña.

The legacy of Willie Colón extends far beyond his musical achievements. He was a cultural icon who championed his Puerto Rican heritage and gave a voice to the Latin community. His innovative spirit and dedication to his craft will continue to inspire generations of musicians and fans. As the music world mourns his loss, his contributions to salsa and Latin music will undoubtedly endure.

As the salsa community reflects on Colón’s life and work, the focus will likely turn to preserving his musical legacy and ensuring his contributions are recognized for years to come. Further tributes and celebrations of his life are expected in the coming weeks.