Gabriela Rodriguez

Willie Colón began playing the trombone at age 14 in the South Bronx, where he was born.

At 17, Colón released his first album, El Malo, with singer Héctor Lavoe.

It sold hundreds of thousands of copies.

In the 1970s, Colón was a Latin music star, creating hits with salsa legends such as Celia Cruz and Rubén Blades.

Willie Colon was also an activist whose viewpoints moved steadily towards the right as he aged.

He was deeply involved in New York City politics throughout his entire career.

For NPR News, I'm Gabriela Rodriguez.