Bad Bunny Pays Tribute to ‘Great Legend’ Willie Colón During Brazil Concert

Rolling Stone

by Maya Georgi

February 22, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

Bad Bunny paid a heartfelt tribute to salsa legend Willie Colón during his Debi Tirar Más Fotos world tour concert in São Paulo, Brazil. The Puerto Rican artist honored the late musician, who passed away at 75, by referencing him during a performance of his song “NUEVAYoL.” Bad Bunny expressed his respect for Colón’s influence on salsa music and acknowledged the emotional weight of losing such an iconic figure in the genre. He also extended his condolences to Colón’s family, highlighting the importance of Colón’s contributions to Caribbean culture. Colón, often referred to as “El Malo,” was a pioneering figure in the salsa genre, known for his 1967 debut album and his role in shaping Puerto Rican music. Bad Bunny’s song “NUEVAYoL” pays homage to Colón and other Nuyorican icons, blending salsa elements with modern reggaeton beats. Despite Colón’s later-life political views, which drew criticism from some quarters, he responded positively to being name-checked in Bad Bunny’s work, recognizing the cultural significance of the nod. The tribute underscores the lasting impact of Colón’s music and his status as a legend in Latinx culture. It also highlights the interconnectedness of musical genres and generations, as Bad Bunny continues to pay homage to the roots of his craft. This moment not only celebrates Colón’s legacy but also reinforces the importance of preserving and honoring cultural icons like him. For readers interested in music history and the evolution of Latinx artistry, this story offers

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Originally published on Rolling Stone on 2/22/2026