Willie Colón, the pioneering trombonist, composer and bandleader who helped define modern salsa music, has died at 75. His family announced that he passed away peacefully surrounded by loved ones. A cause of death was not disclosed.

Born in the Bronx to Puerto Rican parents, Colón became one of the most influential figures in Latin music history, selling more than 30 million albums and earning multiple Grammy and Latin Grammy nominations. He signed with Fania Records at just 15 and released his debut album, El Malo, in 1967 — launching a career that would transform salsa from a neighborhood sound into a global movement.

Colón’s collaborations with Héctor Lavoe produced classics like “Ché Ché Colé” and “Aguanile,” while his landmark 1978 album Siembra with Rubén Blades — featuring “Pedro Navaja” — remains the best-selling salsa album of all time.

Beyond the music, Colón infused salsa with political consciousness and urban storytelling, becoming known as “El Maestro.” His legacy reshaped Latin culture worldwide, ensuring his trombone’s voice will echo for generations.

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