LAMAMIMET

Victor Willis was an American singer, songwriter, and actor best known as the original lead singer and founding member of the iconic disco group Village People. Born on July 1, 1951, in San Francisco, Willis grew up singing gospel in his father's Baptist church, which laid the foundation for his powerful vocal ability. He later trained in acting and dance, moving to New York where he joined the Negro Ensemble Company and appeared in numerous musicals and plays, including the original Broadway production of The Wiz in 1976.

Willis's career took a defining turn when he was discovered by French producer Jacques Morali, who invited him to sing lead vocals for what would become the debut album of Village People in 1977. The group's flamboyant costumes and suggestive lyrics made them a sensation, particularly within the LGBTQ+ community. Under Willis's lead, Village People scored major hits such as "San Francisco (You've Got Me)," "Y.M.C.A.," "Macho Man," and "In the Navy."

After departing the group in 1980, Willis pursued a solo career and occasionally returned to perform with Village People. He also ventured into songwriting and acting, and notably wrote lyrics for his then-wife Phylicia Rashad's disco concept album Josephine Superstar. In 2010, Willis reclaimed significant copyright ownership of many Village People songs through a landmark legal case, asserting greater control over his musical legacy.

Despite personal struggles with substance abuse and legal issues, Willis made a public comeback and continued to tour and record with a reconstituted version of Village People from 2017 until his death. He passed away on June 30, 2026, one day before his 75th birthday, after a short but aggressive illness.