Get ready to groove, because we're diving into the vibrant world of salsa, guided by the legendary Willie Colón! Known for shaking up New York’s music scene, Colón was no ordinary musician—he was a visionary, blending rhythms and styles to create something truly magical. Sadly, this salsa sensation passed away on Feb. 21 at 75, but his music lives on, thrilling fans old and new.
Willie Colón was like a salsa superhero, emerging from the bustling streets of New York City. Alongside talents like Eddie Palmieri, Colón embraced his Latin roots with a futuristic twist. Imagine funky beats meeting grand symphonic sounds, pushing salsa to become rebellious, progressive, and irresistibly alive. In the late Sixties, Colón sparked a revolution when he hit the clubs with his trombone and the dynamic Puerto Rican singer, Héctor Lavoe. With their chemistry, salsa was changed forever!
It was the Seventies when Colón really lit up the salsa scene. Creating legendary albums with Lavoe and later working with Panamanian sensation Rubén Blades, he was unstoppable. Colón also produced tracks for greats like Celia Cruz and helped redefine salsa with a mix of artistic flair and commercial savvy. Whether it was the rough-and-ready salsa dura or the smoother salsa romántica, Colón was a master of innovation, crafting over 40 albums that continue to captivate listeners.
Ready to feel the rhythm? Check out these 10 tracks that showcase Colón’s brilliance, featuring his solo hits and some exciting collaborations with Lavoe and Blades. Let's celebrate this salsa star whose music continues to move the world!