Willie Colón, salsa pioneer and activist, dies at 75
Iconic Nuyorican salsa musician and activist Willie Colón has died at 75, his family announced in a Facebook post.
"It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved husband, father, and renowned musician," read the statement posted Saturday.
"He passed away peacefully this morning, surrounded by his loving family. 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 family added.
His family added that they are deeply grateful for the prayers and support they have received and asked for privacy as they navigate their grief.
Born William Anthony Colón Román in New York City, Colón became one of the most influential architects of salsa music. A pioneering trombonist, composer and bandleader, he helped define the sound that emerged from New York’s Puerto Rican communities in the 1960s and 1970s.
Colón rose to prominence as a teenager and eventually became one of Fania Records' flagship artists.
Beyond music, Colón was also known for his activism and civic engagement. He frequently used his platform to advocate for social justice issues and was outspoken about political and cultural matters affecting Puerto Rican and Latino communities.
Colón’s career spanned more than five decades, during which he released dozens of albums and influenced generations of musicians.
In 1995, Colón became the first person of color to serve on the American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers (ASCAP) national board, replacing Stephen Sondheim.
Colón was the recipient of the Lifetime Achievement award from the Latin Recording Academy in 2004.
He is survived by his wife, Julia Colón, and four children.
Funeral arrangements have not yet been announced.
