music
February 21, 2026
Willie Colón, the trombonist who ended up conquering salsa with his voice and his lyrics
“He redefined salsa practically on his own as a movement and lifestyle,” with that phrase, Fania Records describes William Anthony Colón Román, better known artistically as Willie Colón, the singer-songwriter, producer, trombonist, and trumpeter who passed away this Saturday at 75 years old.
TL;DR
- Willie Colón, a renowned singer-songwriter, producer, trombonist, and trumpeter, passed away at 75.
- He was hospitalized for five days due to respiratory problems.
- Colón is credited with redefining salsa as a movement and lifestyle.
- His solo hits include 'Oh que será', 'El gran varón', and 'Idilio'.
- He had notable collaborations with Héctor Lavoe, Rubén Blades, Celia Cruz, and Ismael Miranda.
- His work with Rubén Blades, particularly the album 'Siembra', pioneered the 'salsa conciencia' movement, addressing social and political issues.
- Colón received two honorary doctorates and numerous other recognitions for his activism and human rights advocacy.
- He released over 40 albums, received 15 gold records, five platinum records, and had eleven Grammy nominations.