Village People's blockbuster 1978 hit Y.M.C.A rockets to #2 on Billboard's chart after President-elect started using it; Rock band to perform at Donald Trump inauguration day

Village residents react to outrage at Trump's inaugural performance. Participants in the events leading up to President-elect Donald Trump's inauguration on January 20, 2025, have been confirmed by the Village People.

Famous for their 1978 hit song "Y.M.C.A.", The Village People have revealed that they will be attending events related to President-elect Donald Trump's inauguration on January 20, 2025.

Following online outrage, the band released a statement expressing their belief that music transcends politics. The group said that they believe that music is to be performed without regard to politics.


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Why Did the Village People Accept Trump’s Invitation?

Their entire Facebook post said: "Today, we are announcing that VILLAGE PEOPLE have accepted an invitation from the campaign of President-Elect Trump to take part in inaugural events, which will include at least one gathering with the president. We understand that some of you may not be pleased to hear this, but we think that music should be performed regardless of political views, as quoted in a report by The Mirror US.

They emphasized their goal of using their performance to bring the nation together, stating that Y.M.C.A. is a universal anthem that hopefully helps bring the country together after a tumultuous and divided campaign where our preferred candidate lost.

Y.M.C.A., the hit song of Village People, was being used by frontman Victor Willis to greet former President Donald Trump at his campaign rallies back in October.

At his rallies, Victor used to criticize the GOP presidential candidate for using the Village People's song, but he has since changed his mind as the publicity has grown. Victor responded formally to the online outcry that followed the politician's 40-minute dance to various songs, including Y.M.C.A., at his town hall on Monday.

He acknowledged that there wasn't much he could do to prevent the Village People anthem from being played during the far-right gathering, even though he wasn't happy about it.

As Trump had previously applied for a political use license from Victor's performing rights organization, BMI, Victor clarified that Trump is legally permitted to play Y.M.C.A. at any of his events, according to TMZ.

"Trump's use of 'Y.M.C.A.' has greatly benefited the song," he continued. For instance, "Y.M.C.A." shot back up to #2 on Billboard's digital chart when Trump began using it.

Fans flooded The Village People's Instagram page's comment section with disapproval, with some users expressing disappointment in the song's royalties and others praising the community that made them famous.

FAQs

Why is the Village People performing at Trump's inauguration?
The Village People accepted the invitation to perform, citing their belief that music can bring people together regardless of political affiliation. They want to help bring the country together following a divisive campaign.

How has Trump's use of "Y.M.C.A." influenced the song?
Trump's use of the song at rallies propelled Y.M.C.A. to #2 on Billboard's digital chart, benefiting the track despite criticism from fans and the LGBTQ+ community.