Victor Willis, who co-founded the Village People and co-wrote ‘Y.M.C.A.,’ dies at 74
Summary
Victor Willis, co-founder and lead singer of the disco group Village People, has died at the age of 74. He co-wrote famous songs like “Y.M.C.A.,” “Macho Man,” and “In the Navy,” which became global disco hits and cultural icons.Key Facts
- Victor Willis co-founded the Village People and was the group's lead singer.
- He co-wrote the group’s biggest hits, including “Y.M.C.A.,” “Macho Man,” and “In the Navy.”
- The Village People were known for their costumes representing different macho characters like a police officer and cowboy.
- The song “Y.M.C.A.” peaked at number 2 on the Billboard music chart and became a worldwide phenomenon.
- In 2020, “Y.M.C.A.” was added to the National Recording Registry for its cultural significance.
- Victor Willis died after a short but aggressive illness at age 74.
- President Donald Trump expressed condolences publicly on social media.
- Willis also acted on Broadway and starred in the 1980 movie “Can’t Stop the Music.”
- In 2015, a court ruled Willis was entitled to 50% ownership of Village People’s song copyrights.
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