Episode Details

Victor Willis, the charismatic frontman of the Village People and voice behind global hits like “Y.M.C.A.” and “Macho Man,” has died at 74 after a brief illness. Born in Dallas and a former Broadway star in “The Wiz,” Willis became an unlikely disco icon in 1977 when he took on the role of the police officer in the Village People — a group that defined the era with outrageous costumes and infectious anthems. Though often misinterpreted as a gay anthem, Willis, who was straight, insisted “Y.M.C.A.” was never meant to be political — though it did become one. He famously left and rejoined the group multiple times, even securing half ownership of their biggest songs. A true pop culture legend, Willis continued performing and releasing solo work until the end.

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