BLACK SOCIAL HISTORY Ray Simpson born The Bronx January 15, 1954 is the lead singer of the Village People. He has taken the role of the "Cop", replacing original lead singer, Victor Willis. Like his predecessor, Simpson is straight. He started doing some backup singing for Village People in its first years, which is why he was recruited (on very short notice) to join the group when Willis left.
Simpson was featured in the Village People film, Can't Stop the Music, released in 1980. Simpson did not record any of the Village People's biggest hits such as,"San Francisco/In Hollywood," "Macho Man," Hot Cop," "Go West," "In the Navy," or "Y.M.C.A.," which were all recorded by original lead singer Victor Willis. Years later, Simpson's voice was dubbed on several of these hits.
Born and raised in the Bronx, he is a graduate of City College of New York, majoring in English and minoring in music.
Simpson additionally had a solo career and many years performing with his sister and brother-in-law, Valerie Simpson and Nick Ashford. Prior to Village People, Simpson released a solo recording album entitled Tiger Love (1978 album).
Personal life
Simpson's hobbies include sports, backgammon, bicycling, writing music and driving fancy cars. He is married to Leslie, and, along with daughter Alayna, they reside in Teaneck, New Jersey.
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