Nuyorican Salsa Pioneer Willie Colón Dies at 75
AP Photo/Claudio Cruz, File.
The world has lost a salsa icon and social activist. Today (Feb. 21), Willie Colón was confirmed to have died at age 75. The cause of his death has yet to be revealed.
“It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved husband, father, and renowned musician, Willie Colón,” his official social media account announced. “He passed away peacefully this morning, surrounded by his loving family.” The post continued: “While we grieve his absence, we also rejoice in the timeless gift of his music and the cherished memories he created that will live on forever.”
The statement ends by thanking his fans for their sentiments. “Our family is deeply grateful for your prayers and support during this time of mourning. We kindly ask for privacy as we navigate our grief.”
Colón—born William Anthony Colón Román—was born on Apr. 28, 1950, in New York City, NY. He was a salsa pioneer, known for his classic hits like “Oh Qué Será?,” “El Gran Varón,” and “El Día De Mi Suerte,” which helped him become one of the best-selling artists in the genre. During his musical career, he collaborated with artists like Héctor Lavoe and Rubén Blades, spearheading the genre into the mainstream. With Lavoe, he recorded the debut album El Malo, which remains one of his most popular works today.
In his lifetime, he became one of Fania Records’ most prized talents. Not only did he sing, but he also played the trombone and trumpet. He also acted in films like Vigilante (1982), The Last Fight (1983), and It Could Happen to You (1994). Beyond the entertainment industry, Colón was also known to partake in social activism, which included being a member of the Latino Commission on AIDS and the Congressional Hispanic Caucus Institute.
Fans and artists worldwide are mourning his untimely death. May he rest in peace.