US President Donald Trump has formed an unexpected alliance with the Village People, a disco band from the 1970s, over their iconic song “Y.M.C.A.”. The band’s frontman, Victor Willis, had previously objected to Trump’s use of their music at his rallies in 2020. However, after noticing renewed success for the track during Trump’s 2024 campaign, Willis acknowledged that “financial benefits have been great” and announced the group would perform at inauguration events.
The Village People were created as a manufactured boy band to target the gay community during the 1970s queer liberation movement. Their songs became a staple of mainstream pop culture, with hits like “Macho Man” and “In the Navy”. Trump has used these songs to connect with his base of supporters, who share his hypermasculine values.
Critics argue that the band’s music was initially created as an icon of the gay community and should not be exploited for political gain. LGBTQ+ activists have expressed shock and disappointment at the decision, pointing out that Trump’s MAGA movement is openly homophobic. The Village People’s statement claiming that “music is to be performed without regard to politics” has been met with skepticism.
In 2016, 2020, and 2024 US presidential election campaigns, several musicians voiced their opposition to their songs being used by Donald Trump. This latest development highlights the complex relationship between music, politics, and identity in American culture.
Source: https://www.dw.com/en/nothing-gay-about-it-what-connects-donald-trump-and-the-village-people/a-71313815