Willie Colón, salsa singer and musician, dies aged 75

“It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved husband, father, and renowned musician, Willie Colón. He passed away peacefully this morning surrounded by his beloved family,” the statement underneath an image of the singer read in both Spanish and English.

“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 concluded: “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.”

The details of his funeral have not yet been finalized or revealed.

While Colón’s cause of death is not yet known, reports claimed he was hospitalized Friday in New York for respiratory concerns.

Colón, born William Anthony Colón Román, largely embraced his Puerto Rican heritage throughout his life in the South Bronx in New York City. Growing up, he learned Spanish from his grandmother, Antonia (Toña).

In 1967, when he was 16, he recorded his first album, El Malo, with Puerto Rican salsa singer Héctor Lavoe. The duo was signed with Fania Records, the legendary label that became synonymous with the birth of salsa.

Colón then took a risk with his career in 1976 as he decided to produce a ballet called El baquiné de los angelitos negros, incorporating his instrumental education by playing the flute, trumpet and bugle. He eventually broke away from his association with Lavoe, launching his solo career with the albums The Good, Bad and The Ugly in 1976 and Solo in 1988.

His career spanned decades as he collaborated with many other future salsa-greats, including Celia Cruz, Ismael Miranda and the Fania All-Stars. Colón constantly reinvented his music, which stayed relevant with fans old and new. The singer’s discography features over 40 albums, earning him nine Gold Records and five Platinum Records.

Beyond the recording studio, Colón was also an activist, involving himself in political causes in New York City, even going as far as his endorsement being coveted by local politicians.

He is survived by his wife, Julia Colón Craig, and their four sons: Willie Jr., Diego, Miguel, and Antonio.