From Studio 54 to Asbury Park: My Conversation with Felipe Rose
As the host of Greetings from the Garden State, I’ve had the chance to interview some truly remarkable people, but sitting down with Felipe Rose, the iconic original Native American from the Village People, was something special. It’s not every day you get to chat with someone whose voice and presence helped define an era. When Felipe walked into the Wonder Bar in Asbury Park to record our episode, the energy in the room shifted—it was like the walls themselves were leaning in to listen.
Felipe’s story is a journey through music history, cultural shifts, and personal evolution. The man who spent decades performing hits like “YMCA” and “Macho Man” around the globe is also someone who’s embraced the twists and turns of life, often with humor and candor. Our conversation covered everything from the creation of one of the most iconic songs in history to the challenges of reclaiming identity after stepping away from the group.
The Tribal Call Heard Around the World
When we kicked off the episode, Felipe treated us to his signature tribal call. He laughed as he shared how that sound was once the signal of his arrival at clubs from New York to Paris, instantly recognized by fans and partygoers. That call was more than just a sound; it was a connection to his roots and a reminder of his role in representing Native culture in a pop landscape that often overlooked it.
Felipe didn’t shy away from the complexities of his journey. He spoke candidly about how the Village People went from an experimental concept to a worldwide sensation, thanks in part to the creative genius of French producer Jacques Morali. Felipe shared the story of how “YMCA” was written as an afterthought to complete an album, and yet it became a cultural phenomenon—a song that’s as much a part of sports events and weddings as it is of LGBTQ+ history.
The Highs and the Heartaches
What struck me most was Felipe’s honesty about the highs and lows of his career. He recalled performing at iconic venues like Madison Square Garden and traveling the world, but he also opened up about the struggles that came later—legal battles over the Village People’s trademark, finding his footing after leaving the group, and navigating recent backlash over the new lineup.
He’s not bitter, though. Instead, he’s channeling his energy into new creative projects, including a book, a documentary, and music that reflects his indigenous heritage. Felipe’s sense of humor and resilience shine through in everything he does, even as he acknowledges the challenges of living in the public eye.
Finding Community in Asbury Park
Our conversation also delved into Felipe’s connection to New Jersey. Though he’s originally from Brooklyn, Felipe’s found a home in Asbury Park, where the city’s vibrant arts scene and welcoming community have provided a sense of belonging. He spoke lovingly about the local spots he frequents, from Georgie’s to the Wonder Bar, and the relationships he’s built with fellow musicians and locals. As someone who’s always been drawn to “misfits,” Felipe fits right into the unique tapestry of Asbury Park.
A Moment of Reflection
For me, this episode was more than just a conversation—it was a masterclass in resilience, creativity, and staying true to yourself. Felipe’s ability to reinvent himself while honoring his past is something we can all learn from. Whether he was recounting stories from the disco era, cracking jokes, or reflecting on his contributions to Native and LGBTQ+ visibility, Felipe’s authenticity was inspiring.
As the episode wrapped up, Felipe left us with a reminder that life’s seasons, like the beats of a disco track, have their highs and lows, but it’s the rhythm that keeps us moving forward.
If you haven’t already, I highly recommend listening to this episode. It’s a rare glimpse into the life of an icon who’s still making an impact, right here in the Garden State. You’ll laugh, you’ll learn, and most importantly, you’ll walk away with a deeper appreciation for the man behind the headdress.
Tune in to the full episode of Greetings from the Garden State to hear my conversation with Felipe Rose. You won’t want to miss it.
Mike Ham is the voice behind the popular podcast, "Greetings From the Garden State". Traveling up and down New Jersey, Mike brings his listeners the stories of the people and places shaping the Garden State. Not only is he a Jersey diehard, he is also a respected member of the podcast community and has spoken at several podcasting conferences. As he continues to amplify the voices of New Jersey, Mike Ham remains a passionate advocate for the diverse narratives woven into the fabric of the Garden State.