Through social media, Victor Willis explained his decision by stating that he did not support Trump, but that music should overcome political discussions
Owner of two mega-hits from the 1970s, the group Village People will perform at events for the inauguration of the president-elect of the United States, donald trump.
The information was confirmed by Victor Willisthe band’s main vocalist, through a post on social media.
Willis acknowledged that the decision may not be well received by everyone and also highlighted that the group did not support Trump during the elections. However, the lead singer reiterated the band’s belief that music should transcend politics.
Our music ‘YMCA’ is a global anthem that can hopefully help unite the country after a tumultuous and divided campaign where our preferred candidate lost.”
Among the events scheduled for the presentations of the Village Peopleis a dance hosted by Turning Point USA, a conservative activist group. There will be, for example, JD Vancevice president-elect; and Donald Trump Jr.son of the president.
Trump was elected in early November 2024 after defeating Democrat Kamala Harris. The inauguration ceremony is scheduled to take place on January 20th, in Washington.
In addition to Village Peoplethe singer Carrie Underwood will also perform at republican ceremonies.
YMCA in the Trump campaign
Confirmation that the Village People will be at events donald trump happens shortly after declarations of Willis about success “YMCA”especially in relation to the use of music during the election campaign.
Also on social media, the group’s founder explained why he left Trump use music, citing the benefits generated:
‘YMCA’ it was stagnant at number two on the charts prior to use by the president-elect. However, the song finally reached number one after over 45 years (and stayed at number one for two weeks) thanks to this.”
“The financial benefits have also been significant, with estimates that ‘YMCA’. will generate several million dollars due to the president-elect’s continued use of the song. So I’m glad I allowed it and I thank him for choosing my song,” he continued.
Gay anthem
Still talking about the music, Willis denied that “YMCA” be a gay anthem. He said the assumption was born due to the fact that one of the composers and some members of the group were gay. Furthermore, the band’s first album Village People addressed gay life.
Get those ideas out of your head. It is not [um hino gay. Escrevi ‘Y.M.C.A.’ com base nas coisas que eu conhecia nas áreas urbanas de São Francisco, como natação, basquete, atletismo, comida barata e quartos baratos.
E quando digo: ‘hang out with all the boys’ [saia com todos os garotos]this is simply black slang in the 1970s to describe black guys getting together for sports, gambling, or whatever. There’s nothing gay about it.”
Finally, the vocalist said he has no problem with the gay community considering the song as their anthem. However, he stated that from 2025 he will prosecute anyone who makes this association improperly.
Source: Rollingstone
Earl Johnson is a music writer at Gossipify, known for his in-depth analysis and unique perspective on the industry. A graduate of USC with a degree in Music, he brings years of experience and passion to his writing. He covers the latest releases and trends, always on the lookout for the next big thing in music.
