The world of Latin American music is in mourning following the death of Willie Colón, the legendary trombonist, composer, and producer. The artist passed away on Saturday, February 21, 2026, at the age of 75. His passing was announced by his family and manager on social media. Colón, a pillar of Fania Records, revolutionized the sound of salsa by blending Afro-Caribbean rhythms with elements of jazz and the urban folk music of New York.

Death of the King of Salsa

Legendary musician Willie Colón died at the age of 75 in the New York area, as announced by his family on February 21, 2026.

Foundation of Fania Records

He was a key figure of the Nuyorican movement and a pillar of the Fania Records label, releasing over 40 albums during his 50-year career.

Artistic Legacy

He gained fame as a trombonist and arranger collaborating with icons such as Rubén Blades and Héctor Lavoe, laying the foundations of modern salsa.

On Saturday morning, surrounded by loved ones, Willie Colón passed away, considered one of the most influential figures in the history of Latin music. The news of his death appeared on the artist's official social media profile and was confirmed by his longtime manager, Pietro Carlos. While the direct cause of death has not been disclosed, media reports point to increasing health problems in recent times. The artist passed away in the New York area, where he spent most of his professional and private life. Colón was born in the Bronx to a family of Puerto Rican immigrants, which strongly shaped his musical identity. He began his career as a teenager, and his debut album for Fania Records set a new direction in the development of salsa. As a virtuoso trombonist, arranger, and bandleader, he created unforgettable duets with stars such as Rubén Blades and Héctor Lavoe. Together with Blades, he released the album „Siembra”, which to this day is considered one of the most important works in the history of the genre, combining danceable energy with deep social and political messages. In the 1960s and 1970s, salsa music was not just entertainment but the voice of the Puerto Rican diaspora in the USA, fighting for recognition and identity under the difficult conditions of the metropolis. In the last decades of his life, Willie Colón was also involved in social and political activism, becoming a spokesperson for the rights of the Latino minority in the United States. His artistic output includes over 40 albums and numerous awards, including the prestigious Latin Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award. The Latin Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award underscored his status as the „King of Salsa”, who brought the genre from the underground of New York to the world's biggest stages. His memory was honored by the most distinguished representatives of the music industry, including Marc Anthony, and numerous fans from across Latin America. „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.” — Willie Colón's family Key Albums and Collaborations: Total Career: 40, Duet with Héctor Lavoe: 10, Siembra (Release Year): 1978

Mentioned People

  • Willie Colón — Legendary salsa musician, trombonist, and activist.
  • Rubén Blades — Panamanian musician, longtime collaborator of Colón.
  • Héctor Lavoe — Legendary salsa vocalist, co-creator of Colón's successes.
  • Marc Anthony — Popular salsa singer who paid tribute to the deceased.