The world of salsa music is mourning the loss of Willie Colón, a pioneering trombonist and composer whose innovative sound and socially conscious lyrics left an indelible mark on Latin music. Colón passed away peacefully on Saturday, February 21, 2026, at the age of 75, surrounded by family, according to a statement released by his family. The news prompted an outpouring of tributes from fellow musicians and fans, including a moving homage from Bad Bunny during his concert in São Paulo, Brazil.
Colón’s career spanned decades, yielding over 30 million records sold and a legacy that extended far beyond the realm of music. He wasn’t simply a performer; he was a cultural force who blended jazz, rock, and traditional rhythms from Cuba, Brazil, Africa, and Puerto Rico into a uniquely vibrant and politically charged sound. His longtime manager, Pietro Carlos, described Colón’s impact, stating that he didn’t just change salsa, but “expanded it, politicized it, clothed it in urban chronicles and took it to stages where it hadn’t been before. His trombone was the voice of the people.”
The tribute from Bad Bunny, a global music superstar who often incorporates elements of Latin music into his work, underscored Colón’s enduring influence across generations. During his ‘Debí Tirar Más Fotos’ world tour stop in São Paulo on Saturday night, Bad Bunny paused his performance to acknowledge Colón’s passing. He told the audience, “This music is particularly special. It’s the influence of all of us who grew up listening to salsa in the Caribbean. Today, one of the great legends who contributed to this beautiful genre passed away.”
Palabras de Bad Bunny sobre el fallecimiento de Willie Colón. pic.twitter.com/4aXBEuD8xm
— Bad Bunny HQ (@BBPRTV) February 22, 2026
Bad Bunny then launched into his song “NUEVAYoL,” which notably references Colón in its lyrics. The line, “Willie Colón, me dicen el malo, ey. Porque pasan los años y sigo dando palo,” translates to “Willie Colón, they call me the bad one, as the years come and I’m still hitting,” a nod to Colón’s 1967 debut album, ‘El Malo.’ He continued, “From me and Los Sobrinos, we wish Willie Colón rests in peace. Much strength to his family.”
The connection between the two artists, while spanning different genres, highlights the ongoing vitality of salsa and its influence on contemporary music. Still, the relationship wasn’t without complexity. Rolling Stone reported that some fans noted Colón had expressed right-wing views in recent years, even criticizing Bad Bunny’s performance at the Super Bowl earlier this month, which drew controversy from some on the American right. Despite these apparent differences, Colón publicly embraced Bad Bunny’s tribute, expressing surprise and gratitude upon hearing “NUEVAYoL,” stating in a social media video that it provided “a push” for salsa and Puerto Rican culture.
Colón’s musical journey began early, and he quickly rose to prominence as a bandleader and composer. He collaborated with the legendary Héctor Lavoe, creating a string of iconic salsa hits that defined the genre for a generation. His music often addressed social and political issues, giving voice to the struggles and aspirations of marginalized communities. He wasn’t afraid to challenge conventions, both musically and lyrically, earning him both critical acclaim and a devoted following.
Beyond his musical achievements, Colón was a dedicated advocate for social justice and a proud Puerto Rican. He used his platform to raise awareness about issues affecting his community and to promote cultural pride. His music continues to resonate with listeners around the world, serving as a testament to his artistic vision and his commitment to social change.
Bad Bunny le rinde homenaje a Willie Colón esta noche en su concierto en Brasil 🫶🥺🇧🇷 pic.twitter.com/MbxbDKw5h0
— BAD BUNNY DAILY UPDATES (@keiveiec) February 22, 2026
Willie Colón is survived by his wife, Julia Craig, and their children. Details regarding memorial services have not yet been announced. As fans and fellow musicians continue to reflect on his life and legacy, one thing remains clear: Willie Colón’s music will continue to inspire and uplift generations to come. The impact of his work on Latin music and beyond will be felt for years to come, ensuring that his voice – the voice of the people, as his manager so eloquently put it – will never be silenced.
The family has requested privacy during this tricky time. Further information regarding memorial arrangements will be released through official channels in the coming days. Those wishing to honor Colón’s memory are encouraged to support organizations dedicated to preserving and promoting Latin music and culture.
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