Willie Colón No More!
San Juan, Feb 21 (EFE).-
Willie Colón, the legendary trombonist, composer, and performer of salsa icons such as ‘Idilio’ and ‘Gitana,’ who achieved massive success alongside singers Héctor Lavoe and Rubén Blades, passed away on Saturday at the age of 75 due to health complications in a New York hospital.
“It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved husband, father, and renowned musician, Willie Colón. He passed away peacefully this morning, surrounded by his loving family. While we mourn his absence, we also rejoice in the eternal gift of his music and the cherished memories he created, that will live on forever,” reads a statement from his family posted on his Facebook page.
“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,” added the text issued by the relatives of William Anthony Colón Román, the birth name of the ‘El gran varón’ singer, who was born on April 28, 1950, in the Bronx neighborhood of New York.
The musician, who was also a poet, arranger, producer, and musical director, began his career at the age of 16 when he recorded the 1967 album ‘El Malo’ with Héctor Lavoe, forming one of the most influential salsa duos under the Fania label.
Colón, alongside Lavoe, catapulted hits such as ‘Calle Luna, Calle Sol,’ ‘Che Che Colé,’ and ‘El día de mi suerte,’ becoming a key figure in 1970s salsa music.
Following the news of Colón’s passing, his admirers, fellow artists, and salsa lovers immediately expressed their condolences and support for the family.
The Panamanian musician, singer, and composer Rubén Blades, Colon’s long-time collaborator, expressed his sorrow on social media: “I have just confirmed what I resisted believing: Willie Colón has indeed passed away. To his wife Julia, his children, family, and loved ones, I send my heartfelt condolences. Later, and calmly, I will write about Willie and his vital and important musical legacy.”
“Maestro Willie. Today the trombones of the Bronx inspire my gratitude to God and life for having allowed me to listen to the genius of an artist who communicated through his creativity and sensibility,” artist Elvis Crespo also expressed on his social media. “His influence is embedded in my brain and my heart.”
Colón, a former member of the legendary Fania All-Stars, cemented his status as one of the most influential salsa artists, with over 32 recorded albums, nine Gold and five Platinum Records, and more than eight million albums sold worldwide. EFE
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