Victor Willis, co-founder and lead singer of the American disco band Village People, has died at the age of 74. I mentioned On the social networks of the group.
The statement read: “It is with deep sadness that we announce the death of Victor Willis, lead singer of The Village People. Victor passed away on Tuesday, June 30, 2026, after a short but severe illness.”
No other details were provided.
The Village People was founded in 1977 by Willis with producers Jacques Morali and Henry Bellolo. Willis was the vocalist and co-writer of the group’s biggest hits, including the YMCA, Go West (known in performance Pet shops boys) and in the marine.
He left the band in 1980 and fought for many years in court over the copyrights to the group’s songs. In 2017, Willis returned to the group.
Donald Trump used the YMCA song in his election campaigns. In 2020, Willis said he did not support Trump, but because of US law he could not ban the use of the song. However, in 2025, as… Notes BBC News, Willis surprised fans by agreeing to perform with the band at Trump’s pre-inauguration rally. “We know this won’t please some of you, but we believe music should be performed regardless of politics. Our YMCA song is a global anthem that we hope will help unite the country after a turbulent and divided election campaign in which our candidate was defeated.”