Stay up to date with notifications from The IndependentNotifications can be managed in browser preferences.Jump to contentThank you for registeringPlease refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged inAllNewsSportCultureLifestyleDonald Trump paid tribute to Victor Willis, the lead singer of Village People, who has died at the age of 74 following a short illness. Trump claimed Willis 'loved' the use of the band's hit “YMCA” at his rallies, which he called a “monster” hit, stating Willis and the group were supportive “right from the beginning”. Despite initial requests from Willis in 2020 for Trump to stop playing their music, the group later changed its position and performed at a pre-inauguration rally for Trump. Willis, a founding member of the iconic disco group, passed away on Monday, 30 June 2026, as announced on the band's social media. Known for hits such as “YMCA”, “Go West” and “In the Navy”, Willis co-wrote several tracks on the first Village People album and rejoined the band in 2017 for performances at festivals and Pride events. In fullDonald Trump pays tribute to YMCA star who ‘loved’ song being played at ralliesThank you for registeringPlease refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in
Donald Trump praises late Village People singer for ‘monster’ YMCA rally anthem
Stay up to date with notifications from The IndependentNotifications can be managed in browser preferences.Jump to contentThank you for registeringPlease refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged inAllNewsSportCultureLifestyleDonald Trump paid tribute to Victor Willis, the lead singer of Village People, who has died at the age of 74 following a short illness. Trump claimed Willis 'loved' the use of the band's hit “YMCA” at his rallies, which he called a “monster” hit, stating Willis and the group were supportive “right from the beginning”. Despite initial requests from Willis in 2020 for Trump to stop playing their music, the group later changed its position and performed at a pre-inauguration rally for Trump. Willis, a founding member of the iconic disco group, passed away on Monday, 30 June 2026, as announced on the band's social media. Known for hits such as “YMCA”, “Go West” and “In the Navy”, Willis co-wrote several tracks on the first Village People album and rejoined the band in 2017 for performances at festivals and Pride events. In fullDonald Trump pays tribute to YMCA star who ‘loved’ song being played at ralliesThank you for registeringPlease refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in
