Willie Colón’s Medellín Arrest: A Salsa Legend’s Brush with Controversy and its Musical Legacy
Willie Colón, a titan of salsa music, maintained a strong connection with Colombia throughout his career. The country enthusiastically embraced the salsa boom of the 1970s, and Colón cultivated a devoted fanbase who celebrated his music. However, a 1985 incident in Medellín, involving a canceled concert and a subsequent arrest, became a defining anecdote in his relationship with the nation – and the inspiration for a now-iconic song.
The Medellín Incident: A Night of Disappointment and Disruption
On September 7, 1985, Willie Colón was scheduled to perform at the Coliseo Iván de Bedout in Medellín. The venue was packed, but behind the scenes, logistical issues threatened the concert’s realization. A delayed flight from Bogotá, carrying Colón and his orchestra, meant they couldn’t take the stage at the originally scheduled time of 9:00 p.m., pushing the performance to midnight.
Upon arrival, a contractual dispute erupted between Colón and the promoters, Rumba Producciones (Giovani Andrés Ulloa and Diego A. Parra). Colón alleged that the agreed-upon payment hadn’t been made, leading him to refuse to perform and effectively cancel the concert.
A Riot and Arrests
The cancellation sparked outrage among the waiting audience. Reports from El Tiempo detailed a violent reaction, with attendees throwing chairs and causing significant damage, resulting in six injuries and approximately 10 million pesos (roughly 690 million pesos today) in property damage. Police intervened, arresting Colón and all 13 members of his orchestra on charges of breach of contract and fraud. They were held at the Belén police station.
“Especial Número 5”: From Jail Cell to Musical Masterpiece
The arrest and subsequent two-day detention in cell F2 became a pivotal moment, immortalized in Colón’s music. He shared a photograph of himself and his bandmates taken during their imprisonment on his social media account in 2021.
This experience directly inspired “Especial Número 5,” the closing track on his 1986 album, Contrabando. The title refers to the cell number where he was held in Medellín. The song is a musical chronicle of the events, presenting Colón’s perspective on the situation and the frustration he felt over the promoters’ alleged deception.
Lyrical Details and Social Commentary
The lyrics are laced with irony, as Colón defends his integrity and protests what he considered an unjust arrest. The song opens with a self-deprecating reference to his “Malo del Bronx” persona: “En especial No. 5, por fin pudieron encerrar a uno de los grandes peligros para la comunidad. Eran un chorro de bandidos que venían de Bogotá, declaraba el coronel, que aspiraba a general.”
The song similarly details the harsh conditions of his confinement: “Ni tan siquiera un banquito pa’ poderse apoyar. Tomando soda en saquitos, ni una galleta pa’ zamar. Sucios, cansados y humildecitos, veinte horas de esperar.”
“Especial Número 5” incorporates the recurring phrase “Amor con amor se paga,” allegedly a statement Colón made to authorities during his arrest. The song concludes with a surprising reference to a fellow inmate: “Por lo menos cámbialo de celda, que estamos con Pedro Navaja.”
Colombia’s Enduring Influence on Salsa
Willie Colón’s story highlights Colombia’s significant role in the history of salsa music. The country’s enthusiastic reception of the genre in the 1970s fostered a deep connection between Colombian audiences and artists like Colón. This incident, while controversial, ultimately solidified his bond with the nation and provided the inspiration for one of his most memorable compositions.
FAQ
Q: What charges were Willie Colón and his band facing?
A: They were arrested on charges of breach of contract and fraud.
Q: What inspired the song “Especial Número 5”?
A: The song was inspired by Willie Colón’s arrest and detention in Medellín.
Q: What is the significance of the number “5” in the song title?
A: It refers to the cell number where Colón was held in Medellín.
Q: What year was the album Contrabando released?
A: The album was released in 1986.
Did you know? Willie Colón’s music continues to resonate with audiences worldwide, and “Especial Número 5” remains a fan favorite, a testament to the power of turning adversity into art.
Explore more about the history of Salsa music and its cultural impact here.
What are your favorite Willie Colón songs? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
