Willie Colón leaves behind an extensive career that marked the history of salsa and Latin music. A fundamental member of the Fania All Stars, his legacy as a trombonist, producer and composer positions him as one of the most influential figures of the genre.
The emblematic trombonist, composer and performer of salsa classics such as Idilio and Gitana, Willie Colón, would have died this Saturday at the age of 75 due to health complications, according to versions spread on social networks and digital media.
So far, no official statement has been issued by his family or representatives.
On Friday, Panamanian artist Rubén Blades published a message on his social networks in which he expressed concern for his friend’s health, indicating that he had been transferred to a hospital in New York. Blades noted that he did not have additional details beyond what was circulating on social media, but expressed his wishes for a speedy recovery and joined the fans’ prayers.
Rumors about Colón’s delicate state of health began to circulate from Juana Peña’s X account, where it was indicated that the musician had been admitted as an emergency to the Lawrence Hospital in Bronxville, in the state of New York. The publication also made reference to the unusual absence of activity on social networks by the artist, known for his constant interaction with the public.
It is not the first time that the musician has faced health complications. In December 2023, during a concert in Cali, Colombia, Colón had to leave the stage after suffering a physical mishap. On that occasion he explained that the intense heat and the exhausting travel schedule affected his performance.
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“It was very hot and this trip to Cali was very complicated because of the connections and things we had to do to get there. I couldn’t rest enough, I started well and suddenly I ran out of gas,” he said then.
Willie Colón leaves behind an extensive career that marked the history of salsa and Latin music. A fundamental member of the Fania All Stars, his legacy as a trombonist, producer and composer positions him as one of the most influential figures of the genre.
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