Victor Willis, frontman of the 1970s disco group Village People, has died at the age of 74, the band’s official social media page announced.
The Texas-born musician was the lead singer and co-writer of the group’s biggest hits including YMCA, Go West and In The Navy.
The group became international stars in the 70s, performing in archetypal macho costumes. Willis alternated between being a police officer and a naval officer.
He left the band in 1980 and spent years fighting a legal battle over copyrights to songs he wrote. But he returned in 2017 and spoke with the YMCA at a rally before President Trump’s inauguration in January 2025.
His death was announced on the group’s official Facebook page.
“We are very sad to announce the death of Victor Willis, lead singer of the Village People,” the statement said.
“Victor died on Monday, June 30, 2026, from a short but aggressive illness. Confidentiality required.”
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