Willie Colon, the iconic figure of salsa music, passed away on Saturday, as confirmed by his family and long-time manager, leaving fans to mourn the loss of "an architect of the New York sound".

Colon, renowned for his skills as a trombonist, bandleader, and producer, was born in the Bronx. He was celebrated for blending the Puerto Rican musical influences from his parents and grandparents with the jazz of his hometown.

At the age of 75, the cause of his death was not disclosed.

Born William Anthony Colon Roman in 1950, the music legend "peacefully passed away this morning," according to his family's statement.

"We've lost a pioneer of the New York sound," said manager Pietro Carolos.

"Willie didn't just revolutionize salsa; he broadened its horizons, infused it with political themes, wrapped it in urban narratives, and introduced it to new audiences."

Colon began performing with his own band at the age of 15 and released his first album at 17. He later collaborated on successful records with Puerto Rican vocalist Hector Lavoe during the 1960s and 1970s.

Siembra, an album released in 1978 featuring vocalist Ruben Blades, tackled social issues confronting the growing Latino community in the United States.

"I grew up in a very rough neighborhood," he once shared with Billboard magazine. "My father was incarcerated. Almost everyone ended up in jail... there was constant friction between us and law enforcement."

Although he only studied music in junior high, Colon continued to perform and tour until 2025.

As a testament to his enduring impact, he was referenced in Bad Bunny's 2025 hit song Nueva Yol, which won a Grammy.