Victor Willis Dead: Village People “YMCA” Singer Was 74
Victor Willis, the frontman of Village People, one of Donald Trump’s favorite bands, has died aged 74.
Willis died after a “short, aggressive illness,” according to Village People’s official Facebook page.
“We are profoundly sad to announce the death of Victor Willis, lead singer of Village People,” wrote the band. “Victor passed on Monday June 30, 2026 of a short but aggressive illness. Privacy is requested.”
Born in Texas in 1951, Willis was a founding member and lead singer of Village People.
The hugely successful band has been making music for decades. Its biggest hits include “YMCA,” “Go West” and “In The Navy.” All three were global sensations, particularly “YMCA,” which has been a queer anthem for decades although its true meaning has been the subject of heated debate.
Willis left the band in 1983 but continued making music and subsequently returned in 2017 following years of legal battles over royalties.
In recent years, Village People has attracted attention due to Donald Trump and his famous “YMCA” jig. The band is one of Trump’s favorites.
Willis initially demanded that Trump not use Village People music but then reversed, and the band performed at the Turning Point USA inaugural ball in celebration of his second inauguration last year.
