The frontman of 1970s disco group Village People, Victor Willis, has died aged 75 after a short illness. Willis — the powerhouse frontman of the iconic group known for worldwide anthems including YMCA and Macho Man — died on Monday, his band confirmed in a Facebook post.
Band confirms death
“We are profoundly sad to announce the death of VICTOR WILLIS, lead singer of Village People. Victor passed on Monday June 30, 2026 of a short but aggressive illness. Privacy is requested,” they wrote on Wednesday.
Career and contributions
Willis was the original frontman and a key creative force behind Village People, alongside producers Jacques Morali and Henri Belolo, co‑writing many of the group’s biggest hits and shaping the sound that defined the disco era. His commanding vocals and charismatic presence helped propel the group to worldwide fame, with their songs becoming staples of dance floors, sporting events and pop culture for nearly five decades.
Born in 1952, Willis joined Village People in the late 1970s and quickly became the face, and voice, of the group’s meteoric rise. The group sold around 100 million records worldwide, particularly in the wake of YMCA’s popularity.
Later years and legal battle
Willis left the band in 1980 to pursue a solo career, spending years fighting a legal battle over copyright to the songs he had written. Willis rejoined the band in 2017 and performed YMCA at US President Donald Trump’s inauguration rally in January 2025.
Tributes
News of his death has prompted tributes from fans and musicians across the world, many crediting Willis with shaping the soundtrack of a generation. “What a talented and skilled man that gave joy to millions all over the world. Victor wrote many hits that over the years turned into anthems. RIP and Vale Victor Willis. You will be missed,” one fan wrote.
