William Anthony Colón Román, a celebrated trombonist, vocalist, composer, and producer widely recognized as a driving force in the salsa music scene, has died. His family confirmed his passing on Saturday, stating he was 75 years old. Colón was known for melding diverse musical styles, including jazz, rock, and Afro-Caribbean rhythms, into his influential salsa compositions. Beyond his musical achievements, he was also a vocal social activist. The cause of his death has not been publicly disclosed.
Musical Legacy and Innovation
Colón's career, spanning over five decades, saw him release more than 40 albums, achieving significant commercial success with millions of records sold and numerous platinum certifications. He garnered 11 combined Grammy and Latin Grammy nominations, underscoring his prominent position in the industry. His work is credited with shaping the sound and identity of Latin music, particularly in New York City.
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Colón's music often featured a distinctive trombone-led brass section, setting his band apart from other popular Fania Records artists.
He was described as one of the architects of salsa and a leader within the genre.
His influence extended to Latin jazz and contemporary Latin music, pushing creative boundaries beyond established formulas.
A Life of Activism and Engagement
In addition to his musical contributions, Colón was a dedicated social activist. He was involved with organizations such as the Latino Commission on AIDS and the United Nations Immigrant Foundation. He also served on the board of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus Institute. His public presence and pronouncements were noted for their impact, and he was a figure whose endorsement was sought after by New York politicians.
Early Life and Musical Beginnings
Born in New York City to Puerto Rican parents, Colón developed an early passion for music. He was introduced to music by his grandmother, who gifted him a trumpet at the age of 11. This early exposure to instruments, coupled with his absorption of popular music of the 1960s – including R&B, rock, jazz, and Puerto Rican folk music – laid the groundwork for his unique musical approach. He began taking trumpet lessons, a step that marked the beginning of his historical path.
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A Statement from the Family
Colón's family released a statement following his death: "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." This sentiment was shared across platforms, including Colón’s Facebook page.
Noteworthy Details
Colón's birth name was William Anthony Colón Román.
He rose to prominence as a teenager and became a flagship artist for Fania Records.
Yonkers Voice News reported that he was admitted to NewYork-Presbyterian Westchester hospital in Bronxville, N.Y., prior to his death due to respiratory problems, noting he appeared fragile.
His musical style is characterized by its urban and confrontational nature, influenced by his New York roots.
Willliam Anthony Colón Román, a celebrated salsa musician and activist, died on Saturday at the age of 75. His family confirmed his passing, noting the profound impact of his musical innovation and dedication to social causes. The cause of death was not disclosed.
Sources:
CNN: https://www.cnn.com/2026/02/21/entertainment/willie-colon-death - Reports on his death, musical style, activism, and a statement from his family.
The Guardian: https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2026/feb/21/willie-colon-music-salsa-dead-aged-75 - Confirms his death, age, and highlights his commercial success and critical acclaim.
Billboard: https://www.billboard.com/music/latin/willie-colon-dead-salsa-1236184449/ - Details his status as an architect of salsa, his upbringing, and early musical influences.
ABC News: https://abcnews.go.com/GMA/Culture/willie-coln-salsa-pioneer-activist-dies-75/story?id=130370368 - Emphasizes his dual role as a Nuyorican salsa musician and activist, and his rise to prominence.
Los Angeles Times: https://www.latimes.com/delos/story/2026-02-21/willie-colon-salsa-71-hector-lavoe-ruben-blades - Notes his extensive album output, later involvement in politics, and a report on his hospitalization.
NPR: https://www.npr.org/2026/02/21/nx-s1-5722320/willie-colon-obituary - Covers his status as a salsa pioneer, his recording career with Fania Records, and his musical influences.
Music Times: https://www.musictimes.com/articles/111253/20260221/willie-colon-architect-modern-salsa-one-latin-musics-most-fearless-innovators-dies-75.htm - Discusses his profound shaping of Latin music and his innovative approach to salsa.
NBC News: https://www.nbcnews.com/news/latino/willie-colon-dies-obituary-rcna260062 - Highlights his recognition for sociopolitical activism alongside his musical genius and mentions his family.
