sports
February 22, 2026
Willie Colón, Salsa Legend and Latin Music Icon, Dies
US singer of Puerto Rican origin Willie Colón, known as 'El Malo del Bronx', has died. Details of the news.
TL;DR
- Willie Colón, a US singer of Puerto Rican origin and "El Malo del Bronx," died on February 21.
- He began his music career at 17 and was known for collaborations with Héctor Lavoe and Rubén Blades.
- Colón was also an advocate for social and political causes, including migration and healthcare access.
- His notable songs include 'El gran varón,' 'El día de mi suerte,' and 'Pedro Navaja.'
- He received a Latin Grammy for Lifetime Achievement in 2004 and was inducted into ASCAP's board.
- Rolling Stone listed several of his albums among the best salsa albums of all time, including 'Siembra' with Rubén Blades at number 1.