Willie Colón, who is one of the most iconic and legendary salsa musicians, has passed away at the age of 75, his family announced in a statement.
“It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved husband, father, and renowned musician, Willie Colón. He departed peacefully this morning, surrounded by his loving family,” his family posted on Facebook. “Although we mourn his absence, we also rejoice in the eternal gift of his music and the cherished memories it created, which will live on forever.
“Our family is deeply grateful for your prayers and support during this time of mourning. We kindly ask for privacy as we navigate our grief.”
No cause of death was listed, but according to TMZ, there have been unconfirmed reports that Colón was hospitalized for respiratory problems earlier in the week.
Willie Colón’s Manager, Pietro Carlos, Remembers The Musician As ‘An Architect Of The New York Sound’
Colón’s manager, Pietro Carlos, also shared a heartfelt tribute to Facebook, reflecting on the singer’s legacy and calling him “an architect of the New York sound.”
“Today, We’ve lost an architect of the New York sound, a trombonist who made metal his banner and wrote eternal chapters in our musical history,” he wrote. “Willie didn’t just change salsa; he expanded it, politicized it, clothed it in urban chronicles, and took it to stages where it hadn’t been heard before. His trombone was the voice of the people, an echo of the Caribbean in New York, a bridge between cultures.”
“Today we say goodbye to a master, but his legacy lives on. It lives in every jam session, in every young person who discovers that salsa can also be musical revolution and poetry,” he concluded. “Thank you, Willie, for everything. And above all, for your friendship.”
Fans Pay Tribute To Willie Colón
Getty“Rest in peace to a true legend of salsa music Willie Colón’s impact on Latin music and culture will never be forgotten,” one person posted on X, formerly known as Twitter.
“We will miss him,” another person shared. “Best of the best.”
“My heart is heavy…One of the Salsa greats transitioned. Willie Colón was a staple in my household, my Dad played his records and would have jam sessions in our living room playing his congas or timbales. I’m so thankful for the beautiful memories Wilies music helped our family create!,” a fan commented.
Saw him, at the gate. In, the 80’s. Banging on a School Band Drum!!! Like, Another, Salsa Great, loss. This, year. Eddie Palmeri… They, gave this “Blanca”…, love & appreciation, for Salsa. Rest in Peace. Curly, Short guy…Love, Love & love…
My sincere condolences to Mr.Willie Colons family . I still remember when my Daddy (Playboy) would have his close family friend’s over as I was La Negrita y Nena de Papi . La Lupe named me that once she met me . As I may recall my Daddy was very good friend’s with a lot of artists from The Fania era : Willie , Hector , Lupita , Cheito , Celia , and so many more that I’ve missed so much . With this I shall mourn with you all and God bless his beautiful soul…🙏💐🎺