Victor Willis, the founding lead singer of Village People and co-writer of the disco hits “YMCA,” “Macho Man”, and “In the Navy,” has died at the age of 74 after a short but aggressive illness.

Village People announced his death on its official Facebook page.

“We are profoundly sad to announce the death of Victor Willis, lead singer of Village People. Victor passed on Monday, June 30, 2026, after a short but aggressive illness. Privacy is requested.”

From Broadway to Disco Fame

Willis grew up in San Francisco as the son of a Baptist preacher. He discovered his singing voice in his father’s church before studying acting and dance.

He later moved to New York and joined the Negro Ensemble Company. He also appeared in several stage productions, including the original Broadway production of “The Wiz” in 1976.

His career changed after he met French disco producer Jacques Morali. Morali invited Willis to lead a new music project. Their partnership produced the Village People’s debut album in July 1977. After an appearance on “American Bandstand,” the group formed its full lineup and quickly gained worldwide attention.

Hits That Defined an Era

Willis co-wrote Village People’s biggest songs, including “YMCA,” “In the Navy”, and “Go West.” The group became famous for its disco sound and iconic costumes.

In March 2020, the Library of Congress described “YMCA” as “an American phenomenon” when it added the song to the National Recording Registry. The song entered the Grammy Hall of Fame the following year.

Later Years and Legacy

Willis left Village People in 1980 before the release of “Can’t Stop the Music.” He still wrote lyrics for two songs in the film. He briefly returned in 1983 before leaving again.

He later battled substance abuse and entered the Betty Ford Clinic in 2007.

In 2012, Willis won a landmark copyright case under the Copyright Act of 1976. The ruling allowed him to reclaim rights to his work. He returned as Village People’s lead singer in 2017 after reaching an out-of-court settlement with Henri Belolo. In 2018, he recorded “A Village People Christmas,” marking his return to the group