With news of the Village People performing at various upcoming inauguration events, what exactly is the appeal of their songs to the President-elect?
"YMCA" was co-written by French producer Jacques Morali and singer Victor Willis. A seamlessly blended mix of lively brass fanfares, swirling violins, and irresistibly funky rhythms, the song exudes such exuberance and catchiness that it virtually compels participation. The iconic arm movements, reminiscent of semaphore signaling and introduced during a 1979 performance on American Bandstand, further enhance its allure – even though Trump refrains from attempting them. "YMCA" is the ultimate sing-along wedding reception track and a workout anthem that resonates with everyone.
The connection between MAGA and "YMCA" goes beyond mere enjoyment, as noted by Dr. A Jamie Saris, an Associate Professor at Maynooth University. According to Dr. Saris, Trump's base's fondness for nostalgia is a driving force: "They seek a return to a past they perceive as great, conveniently forgetting the complexities of that era." Disco, once controversial, is now celebrated by those who once shunned it, heralding a purported idyllic past free of discomforts. Dr. Saris also points out that the nostalgia fueling MAGA sometimes crosses into the realm of camp, exemplified by supporters at Trump rallies portraying military personnel and blue-collar workers. These acts mirror the Village People's playful embrace of traditional masculinity archetypes with a touch of irony.
The image of a 78-year-old President-elect grooving to a disco anthem featuring the chorus "Young man" might be puzzling, but therein lies the intrigue: Trump's ability to defy categorization is a source of both amusement to his backers and frustration to his critics. Professor James Garratt, author of "Music and Politics: A Critical Introduction," highlights the uniqueness of Trump's musical selections, which reflect his non-conformist approach to politics. Trump's eclectic song choices, including "YMCA," are seen not as deliberate provocations but rather as authentic expressions of his multifaceted persona, characterized by an unpredictability that extends to his political and musical affiliations.