The Village People will perform at Trump’s inauguration, though their ‘preferred candidate lost’

The Village People hit “Y.M.C.A.” has pretty much become synonymous with President-elect Donald Trump, so perhaps it’s no surprise that the ’70s disco group has decided to participate in his inauguration on Jan. 20. However, they’ve posted a message on Facebook defending their decision.

The group wrote on Jan. 13, “We are announcing today that VILLAGE PEOPLE have accepted an invitation from President Elect Trump’s campaign to participate in inaugural activities, including at least one event with President Elect Trump. We know this wont make some of you happy to hear however we believe that music is to be performed without regard to politics.”

The message continues, “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.”

Fan reaction was mixed, with many people thanking the group for “Making America Great Again” and “rising above politics,” and others slamming them. One wrote, “I liked your music ever since I was a teenager 30 years ago … now I’m done with it and you!”