Victor Willis, the legendary singer and frontman of the 1970s disco group Village People, has died at the age of 74.
The band announced his passing on social media, stating that Willis died on Monday after a short but aggressive illness.
The cause of death was not disclosed.
Willis was the theatrical lead of Village People, known for his iconic policeman and naval officer costumes.
He co-wrote many of the group's biggest hits, including "YMCA," "Macho Man," "Go West," and "In the Navy."
The group rose to fame in the 1970s, embodying their macho personas with flamboyant stage performances.
In 1980, Willis left the band and became involved in a legal dispute over copyright issues regarding songs he had written.
He eventually returned to Village People in 2017.
One of his final notable performances was at a pre-inauguration rally for President Donald Trump in January 2025, where the band performed "YMCA."
Willis is survived by his family. Fans and fellow musicians have paid tribute to his contributions to music and pop culture.
