Victor Willis, the lead singer of the Village People, passed away at 74 after a brief illness. Known for hits like “YMCA,” “In the Navy,” and “Macho Man,” the Village People became iconic beyond the disco era. Willis, who was born in Texas and grew up singing gospel, helped form the group in 1977 and played the “Cop/Admiral” character. He left and rejoined the band several times, returning permanently in 2017. “YMCA” was added to the National Recording Registry in 2020 and the Grammy Hall of Fame in 2021. Former President Donald Trump, who used “YMCA” at rallies, expressed his condolences, noting the song’s resurgence. Willis was previously married to actress Phylicia Rashad and is survived by his wife, Karen Huff-Willis.
QUESTION: How do you think music from past decades continues to influence and connect with new generations today?
‘YMCA’ co-writer and Village People frontman Victor Willis dies at 74
