The international hit's lyricist has explained that the song – which has been widely misunderstood since its release in 1977– has nothing to do with the gay scene

The Village People burst onto the New York disco scene in 1977, with a distinctive look based on gay stereotypes and a string of hit singles like Macho Man, In the Navy and Go West. In their lyrics these songs, many people suspected they subtly referenced the gay lifestyle.

The Village People's biggest hit, YMCA, has been widely misinterpreted since its release in 1977, the group's lyricist has explained

The president-elect performed his signature dance moves with the band, who once tried to ban him using their music.