Gonzales Breaks Guiness World Record For Longest Concert

Surely, there are easier ways to break a Guinness World Record.

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Eclectic Canadian indie artist Gonzales earned himself a spot in the history books this month when he performed a single piano concert for 27 consecutive hours in a Parisian theater.

The previous record for longest concert by a solo artist was set in 2008 at 26 hours and 12 minutes, by Prasanna Gudi of India.

Gonzales performed for 27 hours without stopping, and apparently without repeating any songs. A statement about the show promised “the repertoire will touch on recognizable songs from all eras and styles of music, in new and surprising arrangements. There will be no repetition of material during the attempt.”  As Gonzales himself says “I will break the record without sounding like a broken record.”

But why? “I will do this to push my musical and physical stamina,” explained the Quebec-based Gonzales, who’s worked with musicians Feist (see below) and Jamie Liddell.  “I believe music is part art, part athletics and this 27-hour concert will demonstrate both aspects.”

You can watch highlights of the event here. Just make sure you make a lot of popcorn.

Better yet, watch this: