[KENNEDY FELTON]
The inauguration stage is getting a splash of disco. The Village People – the group behind the classic “Y-M-C-A” – are set to perform at President-elect Trump’s inauguration Monday.
The group’s song has been a crowd favorite at Trump’s rallies since 2020, often accompanied by his signature dance.
And now, the Village People announced Monday they accepted an invitation to participate in Monday’s events, acknowledging it may not sit well with everyone.
The group defended their choice, emphasizing that music transcends politics. Part of their post reads, “Our song Y.M.C.A. is a global anthem that hopefully helps bring the country together after a tumultuous and divided campaign where our preferred candidate lost. Therefore, we believe it’s now time to bring the country together with music which is why VILLAGE PEOPLE will be performing at various events as part of the 2025 Inauguration of Donald J. Trump.”
Reaction to the announcement has been mixed. One Facebook user shared their disappointment, commenting in part, “This decision feels like a betrayal to the very people who have supported and celebrated your work for decades. Performing at events for a president-elect whose policies and rhetoric stand in opposition to equality and inclusion is not just disappointing—it’s harmful.”
Another user voiced support, saying, “It’s not about the left or the right, the liberals and the conservatives or the democrats and the republicans. It’s about bringing people together through your music that I hope will make the New Years bright and prosperous for all.”
This isn’t the first time the group has faced backlash over their connection to Trump.
Victor Willis – the lead singer and lyricist – posted on Facebook last December explaining why he allowed Trump to continue using “Y-M-C-A” at rallies.
Willis originally asked Trump to stop, citing the issue as a nuisance due to complaints from fans. However, since the campaign had a “political use license,” Willis ultimately let it stand after saying he saw how much fun Trump was having with the song.
The Village People now join Carrie Underwood as part of Monday’s inauguration lineup.