A defining musician in the 1970s/1980s salsa genre, Willie Colón passed away on Saturday (2.21) at the age of 75.
Throughout his legendary career, the native New Yorker was nominated for 10 Grammy Awards and received a lifetime achievement award at the Latin Grammys in 2004.
In a formal statement, his family took to facebook with:
“It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved husband, father, and renowned musician, Willie Colon. He passed away peacefully this morning, surrounded by his loving family.” “While we grieve his absence, we also rejoice in the timeless gift of his music and the cherished memories he created that 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.”
Among his voluminous recordings, the legendary artist collaborated with numerous music icons, including Héctor Lavoe, Celia Cruz and Rubén Blades, whom he recorded the 1978 album Siembra, the best-selling salsa album of all time.
In addition to his contribution to the arts, Colón was a political activist and was appointed an advisor to former New York City Mayor Mike Bloomberg, and a liaison to the New York City Latin Media & Entertainment Commission. And alongside music, Willie had acting roles in 1982’s Vigilante, 1983’s The Last Fight and 1994’s It Could Happen to You., and he guest-starred in episodes of Miami Vice and The Cosby Show.
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Author: Saul Goode
Photo: florian schneider from New York