Willie Colón was an explosive energy source who took salsa into the stratosphere | Music
Willie Colón, a defining force in salsa music, has died in New York at the age of 75. He was a musician, actor, and political figure whose career spanned decades and defied easy categorization. Colón’s energy and innovative spirit left an indelible mark on Latin music and beyond.
A Nuyorican Legend
For Puerto Ricans living in New York – known as Nuyoricans – Colón was a cultural icon. While less widely known to some Anglo New Yorkers, he collaborated with artists like David Byrne and received 10 Grammy nominations. However, his influence extended far beyond the United States, earning him recognition as one of the most celebrated brass players in Latin America, culminating in a Latin Grammy for musical excellence in 2004.
From the Bronx to Salsa’s Forefront
Born and raised in the South Bronx, Colón initially played the trumpet before switching to the trombone, an instrument he used to shape the sound of salsa. He grew up immersed in Latin boogaloo but quickly moved towards a faster, more complex style, blending Cuban son, Puerto Rican music, and influences from jazz, funk, and rock – a fusion he described as a “swinging musical Jabberwocky.”
The Fania Revolution
Signed to Fania Records, Colón joined forces with vocalist Héctor Lavoe, and together they revolutionized Latin music. Their sound, captured on Colón’s 1967 album El Malo, resonated with a new generation identifying as “Nuyoricans.” This album helped shift the centre of Latin dance music from Havana to New York.
Beyond Music: Collaboration and Controversy
In 1968, Colón co-founded the Fania All-Stars, a supergroup that performed with artists like Billy Cobham and Manu Dibango, even appearing at a concert in Zaire celebrating the Muhammad Ali v George Foreman heavyweight title fight in 1974. His collaboration with Rubén Blades in 1978 resulted in the critically acclaimed and bestselling salsa album, Siembra, selling over 3 million copies. Their partnership, however, was marked by periods of conflict, eventually leading to a five-year legal battle. Colón’s political views also evolved, from performing at Bill Clinton’s inauguration to later becoming a supporter of Donald Trump.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was Willie Colón’s contribution to salsa music?
Colón helped create a faster, more complex, and dynamic sound for salsa, blending various musical influences and becoming a central figure in the genre’s rise to prominence.
Who did Willie Colón collaborate with during his career?
Colón collaborated with numerous artists, including Héctor Lavoe, Rubén Blades, David Byrne, Billy Cobham, and Manu Dibango.
Did Willie Colón pursue interests outside of music?
Yes, Colón was also an actor, appearing in Mexican soap operas, and was involved in politics, unsuccessfully running for public office in New York and seeing Rubén Blades unsuccessfully run for president in Panama.
How will Willie Colón’s legacy continue to shape Latin music and culture in the years to come?