Village People to Perform at Trump’s Inauguration After Years of Song Controversy

The disco group’s decision follows a history of disputes over the use of 'Y.M.C.A.' at Trump events and financial gains from its renewed popularity.

The Village People have confirmed their participation in Donald Trump's second inauguration, citing a desire to unite the country through music despite past objections to his use of their songs.
Victor Willis, the band’s frontman, previously criticized Trump’s use of 'Y.M.C.A.' during the 2020 campaign but later acknowledged the financial benefits, with the song topping charts again in 2024.
Willis has repeatedly stated that 'Y.M.C.A.' is not a gay anthem, attributing its themes to general camaraderie and urban life, despite its association with LGBTQ culture by some fans and historians.
The group’s announcement has drawn mixed reactions, with Trump supporters praising the move while many LGBTQ activists and fans express disappointment given Trump’s controversial stance on LGBTQ rights.
Originally created to highlight gay culture in the 1970s, the Village People’s music has since been embraced by mainstream audiences, with 'Y.M.C.A.' becoming a global pop culture phenomenon.