Willy Colon

Willy Colon is an American trombonist, composer, bandleader, and activist, widely recognized as a pioneer of Salsa music who significantly influenced the genre’s popularity in the United States and globally. After signing with Fania Records in 1965, Willy Colon swiftly became a pivotal figure in the nascent New York City Salsa scene. In 1967, he released his debut album, ‘El Malo,’ which sold over 300,000 copies and launched his influential career as a pioneering force in Salsa music. This seminal release also initiated his enduring partnership with vocalist Héctor Lavoe, a collaboration instrumental in developing the distinctive ‘New York sound’ in Latin music.

Colon performed at U.S. President Bill Clinton’s inauguration in 1993 and was part of the Jubilee 2000 delegation to the Vatican in 1999. In 2000, he was inducted into the International Latin Music Hall of Fame. Willy Colon’s significant contributions have garnered numerous accolades, including the Latin Recording Academy Lifetime Achievement Award in 2004 and the International Trombone Association Lifetime Achievement Award in 2010.

In 2008, he released ‘El Malo Vol II: Prisioneros del Mambo.’ Billboard recognized his enduring impact by naming him one of the 30 Most Influential Latin Artists of All Time in 2015. His 50th Anniversary Tour launched in 2016. In 2017, Colon announced an upcoming book, ‘Barrio de Guapos,’ and the launch of his new record label, ‘Willie Colón Presenta.’ He received the Ellis Island Medal of Honor and a Lunas Del Auditorio Award in 2018, and was inducted into the Latin Songwriters Hall of Fame in 2019, solidifying his legendary status.