📷 Victor Willis, Village People singer, dies at 74

Victor Willis, the founding singer and lead songwriter behind Village People, died on Tuesday June 30 at age 74 following what his family described as a short but aggressive illness.

Victor Willis, the founding singer and lead songwriter behind Village People, died on Tuesday, June 30, 2026, at age 74, following what his family described as a short but aggressive illness. The news shocked the music world and millions of fans around the globe.

Willis was the voice behind some of Village People's greatest hits, including «Y.M.C.A.», «In the Navy» and «Macho Man». These songs, which became anthems of late-70s pop culture, continue to be recognized and celebrated decades after their release.

Born on July 1, 1951 in Augusta, Georgia, Willis began his musical career as a soul and R&B singer before joining Village People in 1977. His powerful voice and stage presence were fundamental to the group's success.

In addition to his work with Village People, Willis had an acting career and continued recording music as a solo artist. In recent years he had been involved in legal disputes over the rights to the songs he composed for the group.

The music community and the entertainment world have paid tribute to Willis, recognizing his unique contribution to popular music. «Y.M.C.A.» remains one of the most recognized and played songs of all time, a legacy that will live forever.