Longest Song Ever Composed Nearly Clocked in at Over 5 Days of Playtime
In the heart of Qin Huang Dao, Hebei, China, on the threshold of a new year, a remarkable musical event took place. From December 31, 2020, to January 1, 2021, concert pianist Liu Ji captivated audiences with an extraordinary performance [1].
This performance marked a significant milestone in the world of music, as Liu Ji now holds the Guinness World Record for the longest officially released instrumental song. His performance clocked in at an impressive 18 hours, a testament to his dedication and skill as a musician [1].
While Liu Ji's performance is undeniably long, it pales in comparison to some of the longest songs ever recorded. For instance, Nigerian Gospel artist St. Chika holds the record for the longest officially released single song with "Power in the Name of the Lord," which measures a staggering 4 hours, 2 minutes, and 4 seconds [1].
The world of rock music is also no stranger to lengthy compositions. "Shine On You Crazy Diamond" by Pink Floyd, with a duration of 26 minutes, is one of the longest songs ever recorded [1]. Other notable long songs include "Rime of the Ancient Mariner" by Iron Maiden (13 minutes and 39 seconds), "In My Time Of Dying" by Led Zeppelin (11 minutes and 6 seconds), and "Coma" by Guns N' Roses (10 minutes and 16 seconds) [1].
The advent of sound recording and playing back capabilities was revolutionised by the development of magnetic tape in Germany in 1928. However, Germany kept this technology restricted until the end of World War II. After the war, allied nations gained access to this technology, accelerating the development of sound recording and recording studios [2].
In more unconventional musical pursuits, The Flaming Lips released a 24-hour single called "7 Skies H3" in 2011. The most bizarre aspect of this release was not its length, but the way it was sold: embedded in real human skulls [3].
Jem Finer's "Long Player" is another unique entry in the world of long songs. Designed to play continuously for 1,000 years without repeating itself, it offers a unique, continuously evolving auditory experience [4].
Meanwhile, "Hey Jude" by The Beatles, at 7 minutes and 11 seconds, is relatively short compared to these lengthy compositions, while "Bohemian Rhapsody" by Queen lasts for 5 minutes and 55 seconds [1]. "American Pie" by Don McLean, at 8 minutes and 42 seconds, falls somewhere in between [1].
In this musical landscape, Liu Ji's 18-hour performance stands as a testament to the enduring power of music and the human spirit's capacity for perseverance. His record-breaking performance is sure to inspire future musicians to push the boundaries of what is possible in the realm of music.
[1] Guinness World Records [2] Britannica [3] The Guardian [4] The Verge
- Liu Ji's 18-hour performance, though impressive, is surpassed in length by the longest officially released single song, "Power in the Name of the Lord" by Nigerian Gospel artist St. Chika, which clocks an astonishing 4 hours, 2 minutes, and 4 seconds.
- In the world of music, entertainment options extend beyond traditional lengths, with Jem Finer's "Long Player" designed to play continuously for 1,000 years without repeating itself, offering a unique, ever-evolving auditory experience.
