Village People frontman Victor Willis dies aged 74

Victor Willis, the frontman of the '70s disco group Village People, has died at the age of 74.

The Texas-born musician was the lead singer and co-writer of the band's biggest hits, including 'YMCA', 'In the Navy', and 'Go West'.

Willis died following a "short but aggressive illness" on Monday, according to a statement from the band.

"We are profoundly sad to announce the death of Victor Willis, lead singer of Village People," read the statement.

"Victor passed away on Monday, June 30, 2026, of a short but aggressive illness. Privacy is requested."

Village People got their first record deal in 1977, and went on to release albums Cruisin' (1978) and Macho Man in the same year.

Following a live album, Live and Sleazy, they released Go West (1979), whose title track became a gay anthem.

Willis performed with the disco band at many events for US President Donald Trump's inauguration in January 2025.

When the US President began using the YMCA in his 2020 re-election campaign, the group initially issued a cease-and-desist letter, with Willis himself saying his band did not endorse Trump. The song was used again in his 2024 campaign, culminating in the band performing at events around his 2025 inauguration.

One former Village People member, Jim Newman, said online that the original band "would never ever" perform at a Trump rally.