Willie Colón Dies at 75 After Decades of Musical Innovation

Salsa legend Willie Colón died at age 75 on February 21, 2026, after a career redefining Latin culture.The Bronx-born trombonist signed with Fania Records at fifteen and achieved fame through collaborations with Héctor Lavoe and Rubén Blades.Beyond music, Willie Colón served as an advisor to David Dinkins and Michael Bloomberg and ran for the USA House of Representatives.His manager, Pietro Carlos, confirmed the icon passed away peacefully after touring as recently as 2025.