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The iconic disco group The Village People have confirmed their participation in events surrounding Donald Trump’s upcoming presidential inauguration.

In a Facebook post confirming the event, the band’s lead singer, Victor Willis, revealed that the group had accepted an invitation from Trump’s campaign to “participate in inaugural activities, including at least one event with President-elect Trump.” He acknowledged the decision’s divisive nature, saying, “We know this won’t make some of you happy to hear; however, we believe that music is to be performed without regard to politics.”

Willis went on to describe the importance of their music in fostering unity, adding, “Our song YMCA 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.”

Although Willis avoided giving specific details, NBC News confirmed that the group is scheduled to perform at an inaugural eve ball organised by the conservative group Turning Point USA. Tickets for the event are priced at $5000 USD and will feature a guest list that includes Donald Trump Jr., conservative commentator Ben Shapiro, and MMA fighter Conor McGregor, who has faced allegations of sexual assault.

Village People’s YMCA became a rallying cry at Trump’s campaign events in 2020 and 2024, with the president-elect’s eccentric dance to the song going viral on social media. Their 1978 hit Macho Man also saw renewed popularity during Trump’s rallies, and both songs are expected to be included in their performances during the inauguration events.

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The band recently sparked headlines when Willis denied long-standing interpretations of YMCA as a gay anthem. He explained on social media, “When I say, ‘hang out with all the boys,’ that is simply 1970s black slang for black guys hanging out together for sports, gambling, or whatever. There’s nothing gay about that.”

The inauguration is scheduled for January 20 2025, marking the beginning of Trump’s 2nd term as commander-in-chief.

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