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The Village People are a band known for their high energy performances and popular songs. In a recent article the band found themselves among news as they announced their involvement in a political event that created much debate.
The band recently stated that they will be performing at multiple pre-inaugural events for President-elect Donald Trump’s upcoming inauguration , a move that surprised many of their fans. As seen in social media and reports they gave their reasoning that performing music should have no political attachment.
Village People acknowledged that many fans will not agree with the choice and stated their popular song "Y.M.C.A" has universal qualities they would use for their intent. The group wanted the song to unify many at a time that the world felt broken and political.
The group's song "Y.M.C.A." is a well known staple at Trump rallies throughout the 2020 and 2024 elections where he also created what became known as the "Trump dance". His movements were used by fans throughout political rallies and even had sports figures use it during a win.
Originally group member Victor Willis did say that the band would want Trump to stop using the song in a prior incident. However, over time there were changes made by his comments where he had even publicly admitted that the attention given to it, greatly increased the song’s charting successes. It caused fans to look at the use of music and where they stand on politics.
In an attempt to understand more why a group may feel inclined to support such efforts there is much support that was gained for their statement that art should be done without a political undertone. Some find this point of view valid as music is often looked at as a common connector for humanity. But many will still say it’s important to be aware of the impact one has and be mindful that music can and often does hold a deeper political purpose.
Many view an engagement with any specific party as "normalizing" ideas or practices and the other side also sees this action as an individual freedom to perform for whoever you wish. This is where some fans feel betrayed by their former idols who supported a political party that could have negative views on specific communities and demographics. This brings up larger conversations regarding the ethics of engagement and the overall message a performer represents to the public.
Other notable figures were selected to perform with both Lee Greenwood known for his popular song “God Bless the U.S.A.” and Christopher Macchio, opera singer chosen to perform The National Anthem. Many from other musical platforms have declined or not agreed to attend these political functions causing this decision for the Village People even more polarizing for those who previously admired them for not taking strong sides.
In similar fashion as Village People’s , Carrie Underwood also caught some flack by choosing to perform at the inauguration and a divide from both the liberal fans and more conservative. As this took over the news it generated discussions on an important line for artists with views differing on whether political alignment impacts all of it or not.
The group’s creation in the 70’s gave rise to a large and very loyal audience. The original vision was meant to reach everyone using both theatrics and well crafted storylines while appealing to all.
"Y.M.C.A." became a well recognized song that is very popular worldwide even years after the debut along with being used at celebrations, games and many forms of parties which shows they have influence. As with the lyrics it is about people coming together and that message is one they have always held in high regard as it related to how a group and communities may form.