Salsa legend Willie Colón dies at 75 as family share tributes

Legendary salsa musician Willie Colón has died at 75, his family said he 'peacefully' passed away surrounded by relatives and asked for privacy.

Willie Colón's family announced that the legendary salsa musician peacefully passed away on Saturday surrounded by relatives. They said they are grateful for prayers and support and asked for privacy, and they did not disclose a cause of death. Colón was a pioneer of salsa and the Nuyorican movement and worked as a poet, composer, musical director and trombonist. What is known: - Family announced his death and described his passing as "peaceful." - He was 75 and the family requested privacy; no cause of death was released. - The Puerto Rican artistic community had earlier asked for prayers as he reportedly received treatment for respiratory complications, according to NBC News. - Born in the South Bronx in April 1950, he was a leading figure in the Nuyorican salsa movement. Summary: His family said they are mourning while celebrating the music and memories he created. No cause of death or public arrangements have been announced; Undetermined at this time.