BELGIUM-WORLD RECORD/CONCERTS Musician set to beat world record after 37 concerts in under 12 hours

Record ID: 143279

  • Title: BELGIUM-WORLD RECORD/CONCERTS Musician set to beat world record after 37 concerts in under 12 hours
  • Date: 20th August 2015
  • Summary: VARIOUS OF GENTY PLAYING GUITAR AND SINGING GENTY SEEN THROUGH WINDOW OF BAR NEXT TO POSTER READING (French): "Here, on August 19th, world record attempt." GENTY FINISHING FIRST CONCERT
  • Embargoed: 4th September 2015 13:00
  • Keywords:
  • Location: Belgium
  • Country: Belgium
  • Topics: General
  • Reuters ID: LVABNI15CNYJ3DINKXAV9RDCS50O
  • Aspect Ratio: 16:9
  • Story Text: French musician Gerald Genty was set to beat a world record on Wednesday (Aug 19) for the greatest number of concerts played in under 12 hours.
    40-year-old Genty, who comes from Vendee in France, played 37 gigs in a host of bars and venues across Brussels.
    While his attempt still awaits official verification from Guinness World Records, Genty is on track to seize the title from German group Weltrekorder, who played 35 concerts in 12 hours in 2010.
    He initially hoped to play 36 concerts between midday and midnight, but managed to squeeze in an extra performance with ample time.
    The sporty guitarist said he wanted to mimic athletes by achieving his very own record, and chose the Belgian capital because of its plentiful offering of venues in close proximity.
    The challenge was not without its concerns, however, as Genty's throat played up before he even began the marathon music session.
    "I hope my voice will hold, I hope my fingernail will hold. I hope I won't become mad, I hope we won't get lost in Brussels, I hope I won't have a heart attack," he told Reuters at the start of his feat.
    Genty and his crew dashed from bar to bar across Brussels, treating bemused onlookers to short and sweet concerts under the August sunshine.
    "36 concerts in 12 hours, that's right? Enjoy the marathon, the sun is out so super, great! Brussels is on the move!" said 39-year-old Benoit du Pont.
    Brussels resident Marie Gerber laughed along to the touch of humour in his music.
    "I think it's rather funny, on women, and the fact it can be outside. The songs are quite funny and enjoyable," she said.
    In spite of a much huskier voice by the end of the challenge, the musician was delighted with his achievement.
    "I'm alright, not too tired. I've lost my voice, that's obvious. I also felt I butchered my songs, but otherwise alright. I'm very happy, yes," he said.
    To achieve the record, Genty had to play for a minimum of ten minutes in different locations, with independent witnesses present to verify his attempt throughout the day.
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