Cola Boyy, songwriter and disability rights activist, dead at 34
Cola Boyy, the musical performer and activist who described himself as the “disabled disco innovator”, has died at the age of 34.
Cola Boyy, born Matthew Urango, passed away on Sunday, March 17th. His label, Record Makers, posted the tracing news first via X, formerly Twitter. “He was quite a soul, a man with no age, a childlike spirit with the musicality of an old legend,” it stated. “His lyrics, his melodies, the sound of his voice: every side of his music was unique and timeless…”
Urango’s father, Joseph, wrote a tribute on Facebook: “Words cannot express the sadness and pain in my heart. Matthew lived his life on his own terms all of his life. Matthew travelled the world, performing in so many countries.” He added that he felt honoured to have witnessed some of his son’s performances, adding, “As his father felt such deep pride in his accomplishments.”
Meanwhile, Urango’s manager, Jack Sills, issued a statement via Instagram. He commented on the performer’s “larger than life” personality and noted a gentle, caring demeanour. “He was always the life of the party and could chop it up with anyone,” Sills added. “He was also one of the most talented and down-to-earth people I’ve ever met. His humor and natural charisma endeared him to whoever he met.”
According to Sills, Urango had “just finished” work on a new album under the Cola Boyy alias. He revealed that Urango “was excited to start releasing” some of the new music this summer, adding that he would ensure that the newly completed album sees the light of day before long.
Although his disabilities could do little to inhibit musical triumph, Urango was born with several spine complications, including kyphosis, scoliosis and spina bifida. After playing bass with Sea Lions, Urango broke out into a solo career as Cola Boyy, beginning with the Black Boogie Neon EP in 2018.
The musical industry immediately warmed to the charismatic performer, with MGMT and Nicolas Godin from Air inviting him on tour. In 2020, Urango was featured on ‘We Go On’, a track on Avalanches’ third studio album, We Will Always Love You. In 2021, Prosthetic Boombox, the first Cola Boyy album, arrived complete with contributions from Andrew VanWyngarden of MGMT, Avalanches, Nicolas Godin and more.
Alongside his musical career, Urango worked tirelessly as an activist seeking to raise awareness for those living with disabilities. He campaigned for the rights of disabled people and racial minorities as a keen supporter of Todo Poder Al Pueblo and APOC (Anarchist People Of Colour).
See some of the tributes for Matthew Urango below, including those from Avalanches and Chromeo.
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