Victor Willis, lead singer of Village People and co-writer of 'YMCA', dies at 74

Early life and formation of Village People

Victor Edward Willis was born in Texas in 1951, the son of a preacher, and sang gospel in his father’s Baptist church before moving to New York. He began acting in musicals and was spotted by arranger Horace Ott while performing in 'The Wiz'. Ott recommended him to French producer Jacques Morali, who was assembling a new disco project.

I have four songs... I can't pay you much now, but if you accept, I'll make you a star.

Willis became the first member of Village People, recording the group’s debut album in 1977. The band quickly added members dressed as masculine stereotypes, policeman, construction worker, cowboy, biker, Native American and soldier. Willis performed as the policeman or naval officer.

Global disco hits

Willis co-wrote and sang on a string of worldwide smashes, including 'YMCA', 'In the Navy', 'Macho Man' and 'Go West'. The 1978 single 'YMCA' became an anthem of the gay movement and later found a new audience through US President Donald Trump, who played it at his rallies.

Departure, legal battles and return

Willis left Village People in 1980 and subsequently fought a lengthy legal battle over song copyrights. He was the only original member to eventually rejoin the group, returning to the stage in the 2000s. In 2017 he reconciled with the band, and in January 2025 he performed 'YMCA' with them at Trump’s second inauguration.

Personal life and final days

Willis married Karen Huff in 2007; the couple lived in San Diego, California. The band completed a European tour in May 2026 and had further concerts scheduled in Italy and France. He died on 30 June 2026, survived by his wife. His death was announced on Facebook by his wife and the group, who requested privacy.