Original image via TTFA © TTFA/Joshua Regrello.
Sparrow said in song, "Blessed is the day that meh mamma make-me drink Guinness in the morning, Guinness in the evening, and Guinness with a little milk and egg. Guinness, the girls bound to beg, Guinness, ahh really love the blend, Guinness for power!" Past is prologue: looking back to the day his mother bought Joshua and his brother those yearly Guinness Book of World Records, he would, one faithful day in the future, have for this event, the proverbial stamina Sparrow sang about to achieve his marathon of 31 consecutive hours of steelpan playing. No! He did not drink or harm any bottle of Guinness beer during the proceedings (a little humor here!). The Guinness Book of World Records will undoubtedly induct this achievement, demonstrating his complete circle of success.
What a remarkable feat of endurance and ability to remember so many songs played and replayed, all while adhering to the Guinness people's format to ensure the legitimacy of the performance! He accomplished this for thirty-one hours, and, as he stated in an interview, he set the clock at 31 hours. Had he not done so, he might have been able to continue longer. Imagine the endurance, effort, and sheer drive he had to achieve this goal for himself, his loving family, and an emotional and appreciative nation. He made it clear that he did not break a record but created, or better said, set the record for others to follow and try to break. The beauty here is that he will always be the first to do it. Well done, young man!
Everyone wanted to know how he prepared for such an event. Did he wear pampers like they do at the New York City New Year's Day celebration? No, he did not! Indeed, it was a challenge, but it's important to remember that he is known as "De Pan Man!" As bands prepare for carnival, they stay up long hours rehearsing competition songs. Joshua had already gained that experience, but he also received a five-minute break for every hour he performed. He did not break until after seventeen hours elapsed. He chose to accumulate time for a longer break if necessary; he managed his time well and said he did not take a bathroom break during the first seventeen hours. What an amazing feat!
The actual performance was truly amazing and a marvel to witness. Joshua sat and played; he stood up and played, played with both hands, played with one hand, and danced along with the many Soca artists, celebrities, government ministers, family, and friends who came to support him. He looked tired, but as he mentioned, he felt energized, and little did he realize it was his body burning fat and creating ketones to send to his brain to keep him alert. That was intermittent fasting on steroids! His ability to maintain such a high level of performance over an extended period is a testament to his exceptional skill and preparation.
De Pan Man's achievement is not just a personal triumph for himself but for the entire steelpan community. Gone are the days of only "Bad-Johns beating pan." Those days are gone, and with this achievement, many young people will find themselves in the "Panyard," hoping to be selected to learn to play this wonderful instrument. This newfound interest in steelpan music will undoubtedly lead to a resurgence of cultural pride and creativity within the community. More youths embracing the art form will improve their musical skills and strengthen their bonds to their heritage and each other.
While the event garnered the attention of worldwide social media sites, WACK Visual Radio 90.1FM streamed it live on all platforms. However, the event was more than just a party at the radio station, with many businesses sending food as people took to the streets to dance and celebrate the making of history. All over the Caribbean and the world, people were calling friends and crying as Joshua approached his goal. Mr. Kenny Phillips, the CEO of WACK Visual Radio Station, was caught on camera 'ugly crying tears of joy' as he watched this talented young man, who had come to his home to lime with his son Kyle Phillips of Badjohn Republic Production, fulfill his promise to set this historic mark. It was a J'Ouvert morning carnival experience; it was "Bacchanal on D'Coffee!"
There are numerous aspects to consider, and the future remains uncertain! After Guinness looks at the documentation and finally certifies the event, there will be ceremonies to celebrate this accomplishment. Would Guinness claim the MITTCO steelpan and pansticks? Or would they go on display at Pan Trinbago's headquarters? What about Joshua? What does he achieve other than the notoriety? Should the government of Trinidad honor this newly set standard and excellence for setting a goal and achieving it and, more importantly, bringing much-needed attention to our national instrument?
Joshua's achievement created a unique atmosphere that heightened the excitement for Carnival 2025. Foreign nationals, friends, and family who did not have plans to return home for carnival now have a reason to go. Joshua said Christmas is his busiest time of year; that will change for him, San Fernando, and the panyard he plays at. Tourists will be eager to visit and interact with him. As you contemplate his potential to motivate the younger generation, consider the significant boost he recently provided to tourism for Carnival 2025. His value extends beyond his record achievement; he could potentially provide the much-needed boost to the economy.
The story of Joshua shows us that with hard work and passion, we can achieve even the most difficult goals. Here's to more record-breaking moments and the inspiring stories they bring! As Damion Melville would say, "It was Pan in Yuh Pwefen!"
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Production Notes/Music Credits:
Event: World-Record Pan Playing Marathon
Who: Joshua Regrello
Where: WACK Visual Radio 90.1FM
Origin: Coffee Street, San Fernando, Trinidad, Republic of Trinidad & Tobago
Genre: Steelpan
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