3 songs that sample Willie Colon’s ‘La Murga de Panamá’

You know the sound: it’s that unmistakable trombone riff that can be heard at the beginning of “La Murga de Panamá” from one of Willie Colón, Hector Lavoe and Yomo Toro’s Asalto Navideño Christmas albums. The salsa classic has an infectious rhythm that has echoed across decades, influencing a variety of musical genres and inspiring modern day Latino artists. From dancehall to reggaeton, here are three tracks that sample the Puerto Rican musician’s timeless hit, blending traditional salsa vibes with modern sounds.

"Come On to Me" – Major Lazer featuring Sean Paul

On this song, a Jamaican American electronic trio founded by Diplo and Switch join forces with dancehall legend Sean Paul. The song, released in 2014, blends Willie Colón’s “La Murga de Panamá” iconic salsa rhythms with Major Lazer’s electronic style. The result is a vibrant, modern track that bridges classic Latin sounds with contemporary dance music.

"Come See Me" – Pitbull 

In “Come See Me,” Pitbull, the renowned Cuban American rapper, released a song with a nod to Willie Colón’s classic, “La Murga de Panamá.” Released in 2006, the song opens with Pitbull asserting his authenticity and distancing himself from illegal activities, creating a lively and engaging new track.

"Perriando" – Reykon

Reykon, known as “El Líder” in the reggaeton world, samples Willie Colón’s “La Murga de Panamá” in his song “Perriando.” He kicks things off with a nod to old-school vibes, continuing with a beat that invites dance and revelry. The result is a vibrant mix that highlights the influence of traditional Latin sounds while showcasing the versatility of Colon’s trombone riff across genres. 

Blending these rhythms and sounds, these three artists pay homage to Colón’s legacy while pushing the boundaries of genre and style.  These songs remind us of the enduring power of a classic beat and the ever-evolving landscape of Latin music.

David Arias is a Puerto Rican freelance journalist in the San Francisco Bay Area, specializing in local politics, law enforcement, housing, migration, and the independent art scene. He holds a master’s degree in mass communications from San Diego State University and is originally from Logan Square, Chicago. David also serves as a communications specialist for UC Davis.