Victor Willis, co-founder of the iconic disco group Village People, has passed away at the age of 74. Willis, who co-wrote hits like “Y.M.C.A.,” “Macho Man,” and “In the Navy,” was known for performing as the mustachioed police officer of the group.

The Village People announced his death on their official Facebook page, citing a “short but aggressive illness” as the cause.

Willis started his career on Broadway in ‘The Wiz’ before joining the Village People in 1977, during the disco era. This group consisted of characters such as a biker, a construction worker, a cop, a cowboy, and a Native American chief. Willis, along with producer Jacques Morali and business partner Henri Belolo, created the Village People after an idea sparked at a gay nightclub in Manhattan’s West Village.

The group released their debut album in 1977. Following this, they delivered two albums in 1978, featuring hits like “Macho Man” and “Y.M.C.A.” “Y.M.C.A.” reached No. 2 on the Billboard chart, while “Macho Man” peaked at No. 25. Their 1979 album “Go West” included “In the Navy,” which climbed to No. 3.

In 2020, “Y.M.C.A.” was added to the National Recording Registry by Congress, acknowledging its cultural impact. A year later, it joined the Grammy Hall of Fame. The song remains a staple at parties, weddings, and events, and has been part of the soundtrack for gay marches and events at the White House.

Willis featured in the 1980 movie “Can’t Stop the Music” alongside the Village People and Steve Guttenberg. Despite being criticized, the film remains a part of the group’s legacy.

President Donald Trump expressed his condolences, stating that Willis would be remembered every time “Y.M.C.A.” played. Although other musicians distanced their music from Trump, Willis didn’t interpret the use of his song as an endorsement.

Originally from Texas, Willis grew up in San Francisco’s Haight-Ashbury neighborhood. His move to New York led him to the YMCA on West 63rd Street, inspiring the hit song.

In 2015, Willis gained 50% copyright ownership in the U.S. for 13 of the group’s songs. After overcoming legal troubles, Willis shared with The Associated Press in 2012 that he was on a positive life path.

In May, Willis performed with the Village People – as the sole original member – for Secretary of State Marco Rubio during an event in India.