The U.S. Library of Congress announced Wednesday it is inducting a disco classic with Vancouver, B.C. roots into the National Recording Registry.
“Y.M.C.A.” by the Village People is one of 25 works recognized this year for their “cultural, historical and aesthetic importance.”
Released in 1978, “Y.M.C.A.” became a gay anthem due to the subtext of its lyrics, penned by Victor Willis while the group was in Vancouver.
The Library of Congress is also inducting Whitney Houston’s smash hit cover of Dolly Parton’s “I Will Always Love You” and country star Glen Campbell’s “Wichita Lineman.” Allan Sherman’s 1963 novelty song “Hello Muddah, Hello Fadduh” is also one of the more than 800 nominated works that made the cut this year.
Albums being inducted include Tina Turner’s 1984 comeback album Private Dancer, the 1978 live album Cheap Trick at Budokan, and Dr. Dre’s 1992 solo debut The Chronic.