The world of Latin music is in mourning today as news of Wilson Manyoma's death sweeps across Colombia and beyond. Manyoma, popularly known as "Saoko," passed away on the morning of February 20 in his hometown of Cali after a prolonged battle with cancer. His passing marks the end of an era for salsa music, a genre he helped define during his illustrious career.

Wilson Manyoma, born in Cali, was a pillar in the salsa music scene, famous for his soulful voice and dynamic stage presence. He first rose to prominence in the early 1970s as a member of Fruko y sus Tesos, a leading salsa orchestra in Colombia. Under the leadership of Julio Ernesto Estrada, known as Fruko, Manyoma's voice became synonymous with salsa classics such as "El Preso" and "Tu Sufrirás," which are celebrated as some of the most influential tracks in the history of Colombian salsa.

Throughout his career, Manyoma collaborated with several other notable Latin music groups, including The Latin Brothers and La Sonora Dinamita. He later established his own group, Wilson Manyoma y la Orquesta Saoko, further solidifying his influence and dedication to the salsa genre.

Despite his success, Manyoma's journey was not without its hurdles. He endured personal struggles, including a battle with addiction, which temporarily derailed his musical endeavors. However, his resilience shone through as he overcame these challenges and returned to the stage with renewed vigor, as reported by El Tiempo.

His legacy is defined not only by his music but also by his impact on future generations of salsa musicians. "Manyoma was not just a singer; he was a phenomenon in the salsa world, embodying the spirit and rhythm of Cali's streets," said Martín Cortés, a music critic for Caracol Radio.

The news of Manyoma's death has elicited tributes from across the music industry, with artists and fans alike expressing their sorrow and admiration on social media. According to reports from RCN Radio, celebrations of his life and music are being planned across Colombia, particularly in Cali, where his influence was most profound.

Manyoma leaves behind a rich discography, peppered with hits like "Los Charcos," "Mi Rio Cali," "Zafra y Molienda," and "El Patillero." These songs not only highlight his musical talent but also his deep love for his city and its culture.

As the salsa community and music lovers worldwide remember Wilson Manyoma, his songs continue to resonate, a lasting testament to his contribution to the world of music. His voice, once a defining sound of Colombian salsa, will forever echo in the hearts of those who knew him and those who were moved by his music.