Willy Colon

A trombonist, singer-songwriter, and producer recognized as one of the greatest Salsa musicians of all-time, Willie Colon is a legend of Latin American music. He has one of the best selling albums in the history of Salsa and has received numerous honors and awards.

Born in New York’s South Bronx to Puerto Rican parents, Colon received his first record deal at Fania Records at just 16 years old. Combining elements of jazz, rock, and traditional salsa, his songs were often about the diaspora between the Caribbean and the United States. His debut album El Malo with Hector Lavoe is recognized as a salsa classic, and his 1978 album Siembra alongside Ruben Blades was the genre’s best selling record for two decades. Colon has released dozens of albums throughout the years and recently went on a 50th-anniversary tour in 2016.

Colon is the recipient of several awards including a Lifetime Achievement Award from The Latin Recording Academy. He previously served as chair of the Association of Hispanic Arts and was the first person of color to serve on the ASCAP national board. Colon has also enjoyed a decorated career in public service, working closely with New York mayors David Dinkins and Michael Bloomberg. Recently turning 70 years old, he continues to play live shows and record music. Willie Colon is a legendary figure in Latin American music with a long and illustrious career that shows no signs of stopping.