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Walter León, Composer of 'Colegiala' and Pillar of Peruvian Cumbia, Dies

APDAYC confirmed the death, underscoring a legacy that carried Peruvian cumbia to Europe through the enduring success of “Colegiala.”

Overview

  • APDAYC announced Walter León Aguilar’s death on November 16, prompting tributes across Peru’s music community.
  • 'Colegiala' remains his signature work, with more than five thousand registered versions and broad international reach.
  • Media recount how a Nescafé ad, following a popular Colombian cover by Rodolfo Aicardi, helped introduce the song to European audiences.
  • León also wrote staples such as 'El ambulante,' 'Flor de un día,' 'Provinciana' and led Walter León y Los Ilusionistas, while later revivals by Johnny Orosco and Grupo Néctar brought his songs to new generations.
  • Authorities have not released details about the circumstances of his death, and some outlets report he was 72 as Peru’s Culture Ministry issued condolences.