Village People Co-Creator/Producer Henri Belolo Dies at 82
Henri Belolo, co-creator of Village People, died on Saturday (Aug. 3), as the band's official Facebook page confirmed.
"In loving memory of Henri Belolo (1936-2019)," they wrote. The cause of death is currently unknown. A private funeral was already held in France, but the band is currently working on a public memorial service, to be announced soon. Belolo was 82 years old.
Scorpio Music, the French record label founded by Belolo, issued the following statement today: “It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Henri Belolo, founder of Scorpio Music and pioneer of dance music. He passed away on Saturday, August 3, 2019. We extend our deepest sympathies to Henri’s family...Henri will live on in our hearts and minds forever.”
The French music producer helped shape disco music, penning hits that were featured in several films, Broadway, commercials, and more. Of course, their monster hits "Y.M.C.A.," "Macho Man" and "In The Navy" are also still played at every wedding, party, and bar and bat mitzvah today.
https://www.billboard.com/articles/news/obituary/8526732/henri-belolo-dead-village-people-co-creator-dies