Rubén Blades Celebrates Complicated Friendship With Willie Colón ‘Despite Everything’

Rolling Stone

by Maya Georgi

February 24, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

Rubén Blades has paid a heartfelt yet nuanced tribute to his longtime friend and collaborator Willie Colón following his passing at age 75. In a detailed post on his website, Blades reflected on their complex relationship, acknowledging both the incredible musical achievements they shared and the challenges that arose over time, including legal disputes and political differences. Despite these conflicts, Blades emphasized his enduring respect for Colón’s work and the profound impact they made together in shaping salsa music. Blades recalled their groundbreaking collaboration during the 1970s, particularly their iconic album *Siembra*, which became the best-selling salsa record of all time. He also highlighted Colón’s support for his early political endeavors, such as performing the anti-imperialist anthem “Tiburón” in Miami. However, Blades addressed the strained relationship that developed later in life, citing their legal battles and Colón’s later embrace of MAGA-aligned politics as points of contention. Despite these issues, Blades reaffirmed his affection for Colón and gratitude for their shared musical legacy. The tribute serves as a testament to the power of their artistic partnership, which brought unity and hope through salsa music. Blades emphasized that while personal differences exist, they do not overshadow the profound connection they forged or the lasting contributions they made to the genre. This story resonates with readers interested in cultural dynamics, particularly those exploring the influence of Latin music and the complexities of creative collaborations. Blades’ nuanced approach to their relationship reflects the broader importance of understanding historical and personal contexts when evaluating artistic legacies. Colón’s impact on salsa cannot be disputed, and Blades’ tribute offers a poignant reminder of how even the most challenging relationships can yield unforgettable musical achievements. For fans of Latin music and cultural history, this piece underscores the enduring relevance of

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Originally published on Rolling Stone on 2/24/2026