Victor Willis and the Legacy of Village People | San Antonio News

San Antonio News Today | 2 Min News | The Daily News Now! · Jul 1, 2026 · 1m

Victor Willis, the iconic voice behind Village People hits like “Y.M.C.A.,” “Macho Man,” and “In the Navy,” has died at 74 after a brief illness. A founding member who helped shape the disco group’s legendary personas and sound in 1977, Willis turned a NYC gay club vibe into global anthems. His “Y.M.C.A.” was born from his own YMCA stay and later earned him half the copyright on 13 songs after a federal jury ruled in his favor. Despite personal struggles, he kept performing — even singing the classic in India — leaving behind music that still unites and uplifts. Listen in comfort:Get a…