02/22/2026
A legend departs today peacefully, surrounded by love.
Willie Colon, a Bronx-born pioneer, who transformed salsa into a global force. Composer, trombonist, producer, activist. A cultural architect whose sound carried the grit of New York, the soul of the Caribbean, and the voice of the barrio.
Through his music and his public stance, he challenged injustice, spoke against discrimination, and used his influence to defend dignity, including standing against violence toward the LGBTQ+ community when silence would have been easier.
His soul echoed through every note.
His trombone gave salsa its edge.
His vision expanded what Latin music could be.
Thank you for the breath of life
that set every dance floor ablaze.
Your legacy lives in every rhythm we dance.
Rest in peace, maestro.
