“Disabled disco innovator” Cola Boyy dies aged 34

Matthew Urango passed away peacefully.

Photo Credit: Cola Boyy – Facebook

 The passing of Cola Boyy, the genre-defying artist and disabled rights activist, has left a void in the music world. His imprint, Record Makers, confirmed his peaceful departure on Sunday, March 17th, at the age of 34.

Cola Boyy, also known as Matthew Urango, was celebrated for his vibrant creative energy, blending disco, rock, soul, funk, and Latino grooves with the spirit of funk. His label, Record Makers, described him as “quite a soul, a man with no age, a childlike spirit with the musicality of an old legend.”

Born on February 14, 1990, in Oxnard, California, Urango hailed from a multicultural family of diverse roots. Despite being diagnosed with spina bifida, scoliosis, and kyphosis, he pursued his passion for music and became a beacon for disabled activism, earning the moniker “disabled disco innovator.”

Urango’s musical journey began in his grandmother’s home, where he taught himself to play the piano. Finding solace in the local skate punk scene during his teenage years, he played in several punk bands before embarking on a solo career as Cola Boyy.

His debut single, ‘Penny Girl,’ released in 2018, showcased his sun-soaked indie-funk sound, earning recognition from acclaimed artists like MGMT, with whom he later toured. His debut album, ‘Prosthetic Boombox,’ released in 2021, was hailed as a “joyously defiant sugar rush” by The Guardian.

Despite his untimely passing, Urango’s legacy continues to inspire. An impromptu vigil held in his hometown drew scores of people, reflecting the impact he had on his community and beyond. His manager, Jack Sills, is committed to sharing Urango’s unreleased album with fans, ensuring that his music lives on.

Cola Boyy’s contributions to music and activism have left an indelible mark, reminding us of the transformative power of art and the importance of advocating for inclusivity and diversity in all aspects of life. He may have departed from this world, but his spirit and music will continue to resonate with generations to come.

Listen to his story below.