On Monday morning, family, friends, and fans will gather in New York City to honor the life and legacy of Willie Colón, the renowned trombonist, composer, and social activist who played a pivotal role in the development of urban salsa music. Colón, who passed away last month at the age of 75, was celebrated for his contributions to the genre, boasting a career that spanned over several decades.

A public funeral Mass is scheduled to take place at St. Patrick’s Cathedral, located in midtown Manhattan. This event follows a weekend that included both private and public visitations for those wishing to pay their respects. Colón's final resting place will be private, according to family statements.

Willie Colón died on February 21, although the specific cause of death was not disclosed. His family shared via social media that he peacefully passed away surrounded by loved ones in a hospital in Westchester County, just north of New York City. They expressed their sorrow at his passing while reiterating the everlasting joy his music brings, stating, "While we grieve his absence, we also rejoice in the timeless gift of his music and the cherished memories that will live on forever."

Born in the Bronx borough of New York City, Colón became one of the defining figures in Latin music, producing over 40 albums that collectively sold more than 30 million copies worldwide. His collaborative efforts included partnerships with notable figures such as the Fania All Stars, David Byrne, and Celia Cruz. He was a 10-time Grammy nominee and also received a nomination for a Latin Grammy, solidifying his position in the music industry. Colón was known for iconic tracks such as "El gran varón," "Sin poderte hablar," "Casanova," "Amor verdad," and "Oh, qué será."

His manager, Pietro Carlos, highlighted Colón’s transformative impact on salsa music, remarking that he not only changed the genre but also expanded and politicized it. Colón brought urban narratives to the forefront, sharing stories through his music and taking it to stages previously unoccupied by the genre. His contributions to music were paralleled by his commitment to social activism and civil rights.

In addition to his musical career, Colón was actively engaged in his community, often advocating for civil rights, primarily across the United States. His political endeavors included serving as a special assistant to New York City Mayors David Dinkins and Michael Bloomberg. In 1994, he sought public office by challenging incumbent U.S. Rep. Eliot Engel in the Democratic primary but was unsuccessful.

Colón's legacy extends beyond just his music; he is remembered as a powerful voice for change and a passionate advocate for his community. His work has had lasting effects on both the salsa genre and the broader discourse on civil rights, making him not only a notable musician but also a key figure in the fabric of urban culture.