Village People Founding Members at Odds as Band Takes Stage for Inauguration – American Songwriter
ByErinn CallahanVillage People is set to take the stage during Donald Trump’s presidential inauguration in Washington, D.C.Formed in 1977 by French producers Jacques Morali, Henri Belolo, and lead singer Victor Willis, the legendary disco group drew attention for their onstage costumes. Their signature 1978 hit “Y.M.C.A.” is a favorite of the President-elect, who was often spotted dancing to it along the campaign trail. Village People will perform the catchy tune in spite of long-standing strife between the group’s founding members and its lead singer.Lead singer Victor Willis, 73, is the lone original member of Village People taking the stage during the inauguration. Former member Felipe Rose, who dressed as a Native American onstage, didn’t mince words when a Daily Mail.com reporter asked if he planned to participate.“What makes you think I’m going to be f—ng there? I have nothing to do with the group,” said Rose, 70, who exited in 2017.He continued, “I was in the group for 38 years and then Victor Willis came roaring back with his wife and sued the s— out of everyone.”Village People have not scored another hit since Victor Wills (“the cop”) first departed the group in 1980. He left again in 1983 following a brief return.[RELATED: “Y.M.C.A.” Gets Serious After Village People Singer Victor Willis Threatens Legal Action Against Song’s Misrepresentation]After years of refusing to perform any Village People hits, Willis resumed his role as the group’s frontman in 2017 following an out-of-court settlement with co-owner Henri Belolo. Four years earlier, he had reclaimed the rights to 33 songs he wrote, including “Y.M.C.A” and “In the Navy.”The Dallas, Texas-born artist scored another victory in 2017 when he negotiated a deal with Can’t Stop Productions to secure exclusive rights to the Village People name. This effectively left the group’s other original members out in the cold, as they were no longer able to perform under the recognizable moniker.In the last few years, Willis has traded public barbs with David Hodo, the construction worker. Hodo wrote a social media post downplaying Willis’ role in the group’s success after the lead singer claimed “Y.M.C.A” was not a gay anthem.Featured image by Andre Csillag/Shutterstock)Only members can comment. Become a member. Already a member? Log in. Read MoreRead MoreRead MoreRead MoreRead More
© 2025 American Songwriter American Songwriter: a Savage Ventures Brand
