How Long Is The Longest Song Ever Recorded?

By Divya G December 2, 2023

On the list of musical accomplishments documented by Guinness World Records, there exists an intriguing record that stretches the boundaries of endurance and creativity. While some records involve massive human formations of musical instruments or concerts with unique occurrences, one record stands out for its sheer magnitude and dedication.

Image courtesy of weeklyblitz.net

Though there have been a considerable number of musical marvels over the years, a lesser-known yet awe-inspiring record takes center stage—the title for the longest officially released song. Unlike the widely recognized accolades, this record doesn’t boast mainstream success, possibly due to its staggering duration of 138 hours, 41 minutes, and 20 seconds.

This remarkable feat was achieved by Dr. Jagadeesh Pillai, who is a songwriter and musician. Pillai claimed the Guinness World Record with his impressive piece, which was inspired by a poem from the sixteenth century known as the Shri Ram Charit Manas.

The song encompasses the entirety of the poem’s 15,000-plus verses, presented in the Awadhi language, a variant of Hindi. Listening to this epic composition from start to finish requires more than five consecutive days.

Dr. Pillai’s groundbreaking accomplishment managed to top Michael and Kelley Bostwicks’ “The Rise and Fall of Bossanova,” which previously held that record. The Bostwicks’ creation pales in comparison, with a duration of a mere 13 hours and change.

Image courtesy of jagadeeshpillai.com

In a world where musical records often capture attention for their eccentricity or widespread appeal, Dr. Jagadeesh Pillai’s marathon composition stands as a testament to the boundless creativity and endurance found within the realm of music. As the world continues to push the boundaries of what is musically possible, Pillai’s magnum opus has etched its name into the annals of Guinness World Records, a testament to the enduring spirit of musical innovation.