SA producer DrumPope sets sights on Guinness World Record

DrumPope’s application has officially been accepted by the Guinness World Record, with the agreement that this has to be done in a public space where he can be monitored.

To break the record, he will need to record and release over 1 000 songs within a year. Drumpope, who is aiming to produce 1 100 songs, says he has already released 30% of the tracks. The quest, which started on 17 January, is expected to end on 17 January 2025.

According to his team, the Guinness World Record attempt is a testament to DrumPope’s commitment to pushing creative boundaries and setting new standards in the music industry.

DrumPope says he hopes the challenge showcases the boundless creativity of South African music to the world.

“After contributing for many years to the South African music industry, I felt the need to raise the bar and etch my name in history,” he said, adding that his biggest challenge was raising the finances.

“The major challenge has honestly been financial as this is a massive project that requires me to be in the studio every day. The daily costs from studio, engineering, travelling, etc, are huge. But with the support of my sponsors, it has really helped in a big way in making sure we are able to manage.

“So far, the South Africans are really rallying behind me. The support has been really amazing, and it encourages me to push even harder.”

On how he ensures each song released is unique and reflects his musical style and innovation, DrumPope says he makes this possible by working with the best musicians out there.

“I believe collaboration is key. In the coming weeks, we’re launching an initiative wherein musicians can collaborate on songs. I'll be posting on my TikTok. I’ll select the best collaborators to feature on the 1 100 songs I’m producing. These tracks will also be available as caller tunes for people to access.”

DrumPope, real name Frans Phetole Lebepe, is a composer, dance music producer, arranger and remixer. His mentors include industry legends such as DJ Sbu, Oskido and Zonke. He has collaborated with esteemed names like Lady Zamar and worked closely with many Kalawa Jazmee Records artists.

His advice to aspiring artists is to never give up. “Always chase your dreams. It doesn’t matter where you are in life, what you have, or where you come from. Always use what you have and don’t wait for tomorrow to do something you can do today.”