Willie Colón, trombonist who pioneered salsa music, dies aged 75

Willie Colón, the pioneering salsa trombonist, orchestra leader, and singer-songwriter, has died at the age of 75. Colón's family announced his peaceful passing on Saturday, but did not provide a cause of death. The Puerto Rican musician, known for songs like "El Malo" and "Talento de Televisión," began his career playing the trombone in the Bronx and went on to become one of the most influential Latino artists of all time. Colón's music explored the Puerto Rican experience in the United States, addressing social issues and cultural identity. His manager described him as an architect of the New York sound who politicized salsa music and bridged Caribbean and New York cultures.

Willie Colón, widely recognized as the "architect of urban salsa," died on Saturday, February 21, 2026, at the age of 75. Colón was a singer, musician, and influential figure in the salsa music genre. He was known for his innovative approach to salsa, incorporating urban sounds and themes into his music. Throughout his career, Colón received accolades, including an award for best musica afroamericana at the Lunas del Auditorio Nacional awards ceremony in Mexico City in 2018. He performed at events such as The Climate Rally on the National Mall in Washington, D.C., and tribute concerts honoring fellow musicians.

Willie Colón, the influential salsa musician known for his trombone playing, vocals, and compositions, died on Saturday at age 75. Colón, born in the Bronx to Puerto Rican parents, sold over 30 million albums and earned multiple platinum records and Grammy nominations. He began his career at age 15 with Fania Records, releasing his debut album "El Malo" in 1967. Colón's music blended jazz, rock, and salsa with traditional Latin rhythms, and his collaborations with artists like Héctor Lavoe and Rubén Blades produced genre-defining hits such as "Pedro Navaja." His 1978 album "Siembra" with Blades remains the best-selling salsa album ever. Colón's manager and Fania Records both released statements highlighting his impact on expanding and politicizing salsa music, bringing it to a global audience.