Victor Willis, the co-founder and original lead vocalist of the iconic disco group Village People, passed away on June 30, 2026, at the age of 74.

His wife, Karen Huff Willis, announced the news on social media, describing the cause as a short but aggressive illness. The family has asked for privacy during this difficult time.

Born on July 1, 1951, in Texas, Willis grew up in San Francisco. He began his musical journey singing gospel in his father’s Baptist church before branching out into jazz, soul, and other genres.

As a teenager, his group The Ballads opened for The Temptations, and he later shared the stage with jazz greats like Dizzy Gillespie. After college, he appeared in stage productions including the Las Vegas version of Hair, as well as Broadway shows like Two Gentlemen of Verona and The Wiz.

Willis helped form Village People in the late 1970s, becoming the group’s frontman and a key creative force. He co-wrote many of their biggest hits while performing in memorable costumes—often as a police officer or naval officer—alongside bandmates representing other archetypal masculine figures.

The group exploded in popularity during the disco era with energetic anthems that blended catchy hooks, funky rhythms, and playful lyrics.

Their breakthrough came with songs like “Macho Man,” followed by the global phenomenon “Y.M.C.A.” from the 1978 album Cruisin’. The track topped charts in multiple countries, spawned an instantly recognizable group dance routine, and became a staple at events ranging from weddings and sports games to parties worldwide. It was later added to the National Recording Registry for its cultural significance and inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame. Other successes included “In the Navy” and “Go West.”

Willis left the band in 1979 amid the waning of the disco boom but maintained a connection to his work through legal efforts to secure songwriting credits and royalties. He rejoined Village People in 2017, returning to live performances decades after the group’s peak.

In recent years, “Y.M.C.A.” gained renewed prominence when it was frequently played at political rallies for Donald Trump. Willis initially had reservations but ultimately embraced the usage, noting the financial and cultural boost it provided to the song’s legacy.

Trump paid tribute following the news of Willis’s death, recalling the singer’s support and the joy the track brought to large crowds.

Beyond the stage, Willis was married to actress Phylicia Rashad for a time and collaborated with her on music projects. His contributions helped define an era of upbeat, escapist pop music that continues to resonate across generations.

Willis leaves behind a vibrant musical legacy centered on joy, energy, and timeless hooks. Fans around the world will likely continue celebrating his work by throwing their hands up whenever “Y.M.C.A.” plays—ensuring his voice endures long after his passing.