Bad Bunny Honors Willie Colón During Brazil Concert

During his performance at Allianz Parque in São Paulo, Brazil, on February 20, 2026, Bad Bunny paid tribute to salsa legend Willie Colón, who passed away on Saturday, February 21, 2026, at the age of 75.

A Moment of Remembrance

Bad Bunny paused his “Debí Tirar Más Fotos World Tour” concert to acknowledge Colón’s death, describing him as a “great legend” and highlighting his significant influence on Latin music, particularly salsa. “Today, one of the legends who contributed to this elegant and legendary genre passed away,” Bad Bunny told the audience, according to Billboard.

Connection Through Music

The artist specifically referenced his song “NUEVAYoL,” which includes a nod to Colón, rapping, “Willie Colón, me dicen ‘el malo,’” (“Willie Colón, they call me the bad one,”) referencing Colón’s 1967 debut album, El Malo. Bad Bunny expressed his condolences on behalf of himself and his band, Los Sobrinos, wishing Colón peace and sending strength to his family. O Globo reported that Bad Bunny celebrated Colón’s influence on Caribbean music, emphasizing his lasting impact.

Willie Colón’s Legacy

Willie Colón was a pivotal figure in salsa music, known for expanding the genre, incorporating political themes and bringing it to new audiences. His longtime manager, Pietro Carlos, noted that Colón “didn’t just change salsa. He expanded it, politicized it, clothed it in urban chronicles and took it to stages where it hadn’t been before.” Colón is celebrated for hits like “Aguanile” and his collaborations with Celia Cruz and Rubén Blades. La Opinion highlighted the heartfelt tribute during Bad Bunny’s successful tour.

Bad Bunny’s tribute underscores the enduring legacy of Willie Colón and his profound impact on generations of musicians.