Legendary salsa musician Willie Colón, a trailblazer of the Nuyorican salsa movement, passed away Saturday at the age of 75, his family announced on his social media accounts.
“With profound sadness, we share the passing of our beloved husband, father, and renowned musician, Willie Colón. He passed away peacefully this morning, surrounded by his loving family,” the statement read.
“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,” the statement continued.
Born William Anthony Colón Román on April 28, 1950, Colón was an American salsa musician and social activist.
He began his career as a trombonist but also excelled as a singer, songwriter, producer, and actor.
A pioneer of salsa music, Colón became one of the genre’s best-selling artists and a central figure in the early New York City salsa scene, particularly through his work with Fania Records.
His cause of death has not been announced at this time.
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