Sing-a-thon: Just like the Black Stars, presidential candidates, I'll attempt it again — Afua Asantewaa

Afua Asantewaa, the Ghanaian who recently aimed to set the Guinness World Record for the longest singing marathon, has announced her intention to make another attempt.

Reflecting on her initial unsuccessful attempt, Asantewaa likened her persistence to that of presidential candidates who, despite setbacks, continue to run for office until they succeed.

In an interview with GhOne TV, Asantewaa expressed her determination to try again, emphasising the lessons learned from her previous attempt and her commitment to making Ghana proud.

"I have been reflecting a lot, and I believe that record attempts are similar to the Black Stars participating in a World Cup or a presidential candidate running for office. I have seen presidential candidates who have not won but continue to try. So, if I have attempted the world record and it was not successful, it doesn't mean I should give up," she said.

She continued, "I believe that a lot has been learned. We only had two weeks to attempt what we did last year, December 2023. So, we have several months ahead if we decide to try again, to prepare properly and achieve success and continue to make Ghana proud. Even if we fail, let's still put Ghana on the map."

On December 24, Asantewaa set out to break the Guinness World Record for the longest singing marathon, capturing the attention of many in Ghana as she sang for 126 hours and 52 minutes.

Initially planning to finish on December 27, she extended her performance to five continuous days after consulting with her team.

The event, held at Akwaaba Village in Accra near the Kotoka International Airport, drew thousands of supporters eager to witness history.

A long list of showbiz personalities, including Nana Ama McBrown, Kwabena Kwabena, Efya, Sista Afia, Afronitaa, Delay, Cina Soul, Clemento Suarez, Akuapem Poloo, Lawyer Nti, Piesie Esther, and OB Amponsah, also showed up to demonstrate their collective support.

The feedback was overwhelmingly positive, with people consistently applauding and encouraging her to continue her impressive endeavour.

However, in reaction to an inquiry from JoyFM's Kwame Dadzie about her disqualification, the Guinness World Records stated that Asantewaa's attempt was unsuccessful for not following the guidelines regarding rest break timings.

According to a statement by PR Executive Alina Polianskaya, these are standard rules that could not be overlooked.

"Afua Asantewaa's sing-a-thon attempt was not successful due to guidelines around rest break timings not being met. These rules are standard across all of our 'longest marathon' records. We've seen how inspirational it has been for her fans... We wish Afua the best of luck with any future record attempts," the statement read.