Victor Willis, Village People Voice, Passes | Virginia Beach News

Victor Willis, the legendary voice and creative force behind the Village People, has died at 74, leaving behind a global musical legacy defined by hits like “Y.M.C.A.” and “In the Navy.” Once a Broadway star, he co-founded the disco phenomenon in 1977, channeling the energy of Manhattan’s West Village nightlife. His iconic performances as the police officer and his enduring stage presence — even at 74, when he sang for the U.S. Secretary of State in India — cemented his status as a cultural icon. Despite legal battles over song rights and personal struggles, Willis found renewed purpose, declaring in 2012 his life was “on a much better path.” His music, now enshrined in the Grammy Hall of Fame and played everywhere from weddings to the White House, continues to unite generations with its infectious, joyful beats. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/4708fb08071acad5