I’ve read a lot of comments under several posts since the announcement by the Guinness World Records that the attempt by Ghanaian Afua Asantewaa O Aduonum to break the longest singing marathon was unsuccessful. Some insist she deserves congratulations, while others think it was an exercise in futility, enduring those hectic and painful moments just to win nothing. Nothing? Really?
But for educational purposes, the Guinness World Records outfit does not necessarily provide monetary benefits to whoever breaks a record. At best, the record breaker receives the ‘bragging rights’ as the new record holder, and that’s it! The other possibility may involve becoming popular and reaping some benefits from that popularity.
In Afua Asantewaa’s case, just the attempt has made her a ‘celebrity’ overnight and has attracted several brands to work with her. Shortly after the event, she was appointed tourism ambassador for Ghana. Since then, she has visited almost every high office in the country, including the seat of government, which ordinarily would’ve taken her forever to even secure an appointment.
As we speak, Afua could secure support from any brand for any initiative she may want to pursue. In fact, I know many brands that supported her before, during, and after the attempt. Do I need to mention how her heart felt at peace, elated, and satisfied when she knew she had the whole country supporting her? How she attracted support from every nook and cranny at the event grounds, including her crush Kuami Eugene. At a point, some felt she had successfully united the country with her singular act.
What about the songs that were promoted and sold to the world through the act? The TikTok content created for humor, views and money? The DJs, health professionals, and lawyers who were part of the team, and how constant media interactions made them popular and hopefully will secure them more gigs? What about the people who were very happy at the grounds, some of whom may have even met their soul mates? Have you thought about how this act actually opened the floodgates for other ‘thons’ in the country? 😆
If you’re really aware of all these and many others I couldn’t mention, how can you call this act ‘unsuccessful,’ apart from those who mean the technical definition of the word? Obviously, Afua was successful. She’s a heroine and deserves fresh congratulations from all of us.
The likes of Albert Nat Hyde (BongoIdeas) can continue spewing gibberish and being pained with his usual penchant for negativity. To us, it’s a win and a huge success!
Congratulations Afua!!!
Derrick Fio (MC Deefio)
Gyegyewase North
Agona Asafo Republic