VILLAGE PEOPLE FRONTMAN VICTOR WILLIS DIES AT 74
The founding lead singer and co-writer behind disco's biggest anthems has passed away following a short illness.
Victor Willis, the iconic voice of Village People and co-writer of some of the biggest disco bangers of all time, has died at 74. According to Variety and Deadline, Willis passed away on Monday, June 30, following a short but aggressive illness.
Willis founded Village People and penned or co-wrote the group's most legendary hits—"YMCA," "Macho Man," and "In the Navy." Those tracks became worldwide smashes and remain absolute party staples decades later, instantly recognizable to generations of music fans.
The band announced Willis's passing on their official Facebook page, writing: "We are profoundly sad to announce the death of Victor Willis, lead singer of Village People." Village People's legacy as one of disco's most fun and enduring acts is cemented, with Willis's contributions to pop culture impossible to overstate.
Willis leaves behind an enormous musical footprint—those three-word titles alone guarantee his melodies will keep spinning on dance floors and at celebrations for years to come.
Sources · Variety · Deadline