sports

February 23, 2026

Willie Colón and the story behind an arrest with his orchestra in Medellín: he wrote a song about it

Following the passing of renowned salsa singer Willie Colón on the morning of February 21st, social media users recalled one of the artist's most famous anecdotes in Colombia: his detention with his entire orchestra in Medellín.

Willie Colón and the story behind an arrest with his orchestra in Medellín: he wrote a song about it

TL;DR

  • Willie Colón and his 13-member orchestra were arrested in Medellín, Colombia, on February 21, 1985.
  • The arrest occurred after a concert scheduled for September 7th was canceled due to logistical delays and financial disagreements.
  • The cancellation led to riots at the venue, resulting in injuries and damages.
  • Colón and his orchestra were detained for two days, inspiring the song "Especial No. 5."
  • The artist shared a photo of the incident in 2021 on X, showing him and his band behind bars.

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