In a remarkable display of vocal endurance and passion for music, Ewaoluwa Olatunji, a Nigerian woman, has etched her name in the annals of the Guinness World Records. She achieved an extraordinary feat by singing Christmas songs non-stop for 31 hours, a testament to her dedication and love for the festive spirit. This marathon performance, held from December 27 to 28, was not just about breaking records but also served as a platform for Olatunji, known by her stage name Ewa Cole or the “Queen of Afro-Solk,” to spread a message of peace, unity, and inspiration to young people worldwide.
Born and raised in Lagos, Nigeria, the 29-year-old Olatunji has been honing her musical talents since childhood, often leading and performing at her school’s Christmas carols. Her journey to the Guinness World Record was fueled by a lifelong preparation and a deep-seated desire to make a difference through her music. Olatunji’s record-setting performance included a repertoire of classic Christmas tunes such as “Deck the Halls”, “Frosty the Snowman”, and “Silent Night”, among others, showcasing her versatile vocal range and profound connection to the holiday season’s music.
The guidelines for this marathon singing attempt were stringent, reflecting the challenge’s intensity. Olatunji was not allowed to repeat any song within a one-hour window, ensuring a wide variety of Christmas melodies entertained the audience throughout her performance. The Guinness World Records permitted her a five-minute rest break for every hour of continuous singing. These breaks were crucial for Olatunji to maintain her stamina, allowing her brief moments to eat, rest, and attend to personal needs.
Despite the joy and excitement of the occasion, the marathon was a grueling physical and emotional ordeal for Olatunji. She faced several challenges, including fatigue, throat pain, and stomach issues, particularly between the eighth and twelfth hours when she suffered symptoms of mild food poisoning. The situation was dire, with Olatunji battling discomfort and pain while striving to keep her performance seamless and engaging. Her determination and resilience shone through, especially when her throat pain intensified after 20 hours, pushing her to consider quitting.
However, Olatunji’s spirit remained unbroken. She persevered, motivated by a belief in her cause and a desire to complete the marathon. Her faith and tenacity paid off, allowing her to continue singing even when her voice began to falter. Reflecting on her journey, Olatunji credits divine support for her ability to overcome the physical and mental challenges she faced, highlighting the extraordinary effort it took to achieve this record.
Beyond the personal triumph and the accolade of a Guinness World Record title, Olatunji’s achievement is a source of immense pride and joy. Her story is a powerful reminder of the incredible feats individuals can accomplish with dedication, passion, and a strong will. Olatunji, who also balances her career as a software engineer and runs her own clothing brand, embodies the versatile and dynamic spirit of modern Nigerian women.
Ewaoluwa Olatunji’s record-setting marathon of singing Christmas songs for 31 hours is more than just a milestone in the Guinness World Records. It’s a celebration of music’s universal language, the power of perseverance, and the importance of pursuing one’s dreams. Her achievement not only sets a new benchmark for musical endurance but also serves as an inspiration to young people across Nigeria and beyond, encouraging them to believe in their talents and to strive for excellence in their endeavors.
