Felipe Rose

Felipe Rose, born on January 12, 1954, in Manhattan, is a distinguished American musician renowned as a founding member of the iconic disco ensemble, the Village People. During his tenure with the group from 1977 until 2017, he portrayed a Native American persona, characterized by a striking costume featuring an imitation war bonnet, loincloth, and elaborate face paint. His journey in the Village People saw him contribute to their initial success, including the UK hit "San Francisco" and the U.S. chart-toppers "Macho Man" and "YMCA."

Originally from a Puerto Rican background, Rose embraces both Lakota and Taino heritage, as well as Apache roots. His passion for the performing arts ignited in childhood, inspired largely by his mother, a former dancer at the Copacabana. Rose's career took off when he was discovered by French producer Jacques Morali while working as a dancer at The Anvil, a popular gay nightclub in New York City.

In 2000, Rose embarked on a solo career, releasing his single "Going Back to My Roots" in 2018, and winning a NAMMY Award for Best Historical Recording in 2001 for "Trails of Tears." He has also made appearances in films such as "Can't Stop the Music" and the documentary "Village People: The E! True Hollywood Story." Now residing in Asbury Park, New Jersey, he appreciates the community's diversity and vibrant artistic scene.