Colón, a towering pillar of Fania Records, made his chart entrance with his album Criollo in 1985. This iconic album not only solidified his place in the world of salsa music, but it also marked a turning point in his career, propelling him to new heights of success and recognition.
Héctor Juan Pérez Martínez, better known as Héctor Lavoe, was a Puerto Rican salsa singer and songwriter. He was born on September 30, 1946, in Ponce, Puerto Rico, and was known for his unique voice, improvisational skills, and charismatic stage presence. Lavoe began his musical career in the 1960s, singing with various bands in Puerto Rico before moving to New York City in 1967.
In New York, Lavoe began working with Fania Records, a record label that would become synonymous with the salsa music genre. It was here that he met and formed a partnership with trombonist Willie Colón, a fellow Puerto Rican who was also making a name for himself in the salsa scene.
Together, Colón and Lavoe created a musical fusion that would captivate audiences around the world. Their first album, El Malo, was released in 1967 and was a huge success, launching both of their careers to new heights. Over the next decade, they would release numerous albums together, solidifying their place as one of the most influential duos in salsa music.
But it was in 1985 that Colón would make his chart entrance as a solo artist with his album Criollo. This album, which translates to “Native” in English, was a tribute to his Puerto Rican roots and culture. It was a departure from his usual sound, incorporating elements of traditional Puerto Rican music such as bomba and plena, while still maintaining his signature salsa style.
Criollo was an instant hit, reaching number one on the Billboard Tropical Albums chart and earning Colón a Grammy nomination for Best Tropical Latin Performance. The album’s title track, “Criollo,” became a fan favorite and is still considered one of Colón’s most iconic songs.
But it wasn’t just the music that made Criollo a success. The album’s cover art, featuring a portrait of Colón in traditional Puerto Rican attire, captured the attention of fans and critics alike. It was a powerful statement of pride and identity, showcasing Colón’s deep connection to his culture and heritage.
With the success of Criollo, Colón proved that he was more than just a talented musician – he was a cultural icon. He used his platform to celebrate and honor his Puerto Rican roots, paving the way for future generations of Latinx artists to do the same.
In the years following the release of Criollo, Colón continued to release hit albums and collaborate with other notable artists such as Celia Cruz and Rubén Blades. He also ventured into other areas of the entertainment industry, including producing and acting.
Today, Colón’s legacy lives on through his music and the impact he had on the world of salsa. He will always be remembered as a towering pillar of Fania Records and a pioneer of the salsa genre. His chart entrance with Criollo in 1985 marked a significant moment in his career and solidified his place in music history.
In conclusion, Willie Colón’s album Criollo was a defining moment in his career and a testament to his talent and passion for his culture. It not only showcased his musical versatility but also served as a source of pride and inspiration for the Latinx community. Colón’s legacy continues to inspire and influence generations of artists, making him a true legend in the world of salsa music.
