Grief as popular singer dies day before birthday, fans mourn him: “Brought joy”

ONP Summary

Victor Willis, the founding lead singer and co-writer of Village People's major 1970s disco hits, died on June 30, 2026, at age 74 from a brief but serious illness whose specific nature was not disclosed. Willis, known for his iconic police officer costume, co-authored numerous hits including 'YMCA,' 'Macho Man,' 'In The Navy,' and 'Go West' that became defining songs of the disco era.