In a monumental tribute to his country’s national instrument, steelpan player Joshua Regrello has etched his name in music history. The 26-year-old musician has officially secured the Guinness World Record for the longest marathon playing steelpan/steel drums, with a marathon performance that lasted an incredible 31 hours.
The record-breaking musical feat began on December 27, 2024, at the WACK 90.1FM Studio in San Fernando, a city in southern Trinidad. Regrello’s endurance challenge, which he initially set out to complete in 30 hours, captivated a nation, drawing thousands of viewers to livestreams and bringing a wave of national pride.
For every hour of continuous playing, Guinness rules allowed for a five-minute break, which could be accumulated over time. Regrello, however, pushed through, often taking only short, strategic breaks. He was supported by a dedicated team of timekeepers, including certified referees from the Trinidad and Tobago Football Association, who ensured the accuracy of his record attempt.
Beyond the personal milestone, Regrello’s mission was deeply rooted in a desire to elevate the steelpan to a global stage. The instrument, a symbol of Trinidad and Tobago’s culture and ingenuity, has been a lifelong passion for Regrello, whose father is also a musician. “This is more than a personal milestone,” he said after completing the marathon. “This is a win for steelpan, our culture and our people.”
Regrello’s achievement has been hailed by national leaders, including Minister of Culture and Community Development Michelle Benjamin, who described his performance as a “collective success.” The marathon’s viral appeal has not only cemented his name in the record books but has also shone a new, brilliant spotlight on the steelpan, an instrument he believes he was born to play.
