SA Producer DrumPope aims for Guinness World Record
South African producer DrumPope has set his sights on breaking the Guinness World Record for the most digital single releases by a music act in a year.
Known for his dynamic and innovative approach, DrumPope is set to captivate audiences worldwide with a continuous stream of Africa's finest musical offerings.
To break the record, he must release over 1,000 songs within a year, with a goal of 1 100 releases.
In line with Guinness World Record regulations, the recording must be done in a public space for monitoring purposes.
DrumPope has partnered with AMPD Studios in Newtown Junction Mall and MTN Callertunez as his official release platform.
The local producer extended his heartfelt appreciation to these partners for their unwavering support, commitment, and belief in the Guinness World Record Experience.
Speaking to GQ’s Luthando Vikilahle, DrumPope says he felt the need to raise the bar to unprecedented heights and etch his name in the remarkable Guinness World Record books for recording and releasing over 1000 songs.
GQ: Can you share more about your journey in the South African music industry before aiming for this Guinness World Record?
DrumPope: My brand DrumPope came into being in early 2009, when a Friend shared with me a Production Software, and taught myself to use it. Gave me all the tools I needed.
I put dedication into learning music production, and gradually that’s how the music spark/passion started. I got my breakthrough after Producing Lady Zamar - King Zamar.
I went on to work with the likes of Mzekezeke, Dj Sbu, Bucie, and Later Oskido with Kalawa Jazmee, went on to work with Bongo Maffin, DJ Zinhle, Zonke to name a few.
GQ: What inspired you to set the goal of releasing over 1000 songs in a year?
DrumPope: After contributing for some years in the S.A music industry and being inspired by Dj Sbu when I went on to do the Longest Radio Show for the Guinness World Record.
After working with S. A’s Heavyweights, I felt the need to now take it to raise the bar to unprecedented heights and etch my name in the remarkable achievement in the Guinness World Record for recording and releasing over 1000 songs.
GQ: How do you manage the creative process to maintain quality while aiming for such a high quantity of releases?
DrumPope: I saw the Importance of having the best team by his side to work together aiming for high high-quality releases. I am working side to side with Rooted, and Tae in Studio, and Having Believe as their Music Distributor makes a lot of things easier.
GQ: What challenges have you faced so far in this journey, and how have you overcome them?
DrumPope: The Major challenge has honestly been financial backing, as this Project is a massive Project and require me to be in the Studio every day.
The Day-to-day costs, from Studio, engineering, travelling, etcetera. But with the support of AMPD and MTN, it has really helped in a big way making sure we are able to move manage.
GQ: Can you explain the role of AMPD Studios and MTN Calle tunez in supporting this record attempt?
DrumPope: AMPD Studios are Providing state-of-the-art recording facilities and technical expertise crucial for producing music at an unprecedented pace.
MTN Callertunez – MTN has rallied behind this initiative as a key partner, ensuring that the releases are exclusively available as MTN Callertunez, allowing South Africans the ability to be part of this momentous event.
GQ: How has your collaboration with notable artists like DJ Sbu, Oskido, and Zonke influenced your music?
DrumPope: Working Close to them has really help me solidify my sound nor craft, seeing how hard they work, really inpired me to work twice as hard.
GQ: What has been the reaction from your fans and the South African music community to this ambitious project?
DrumPope: So far, the South African Community are really rallying behind me, the support has been really amazing, and it encourages me to push even harder.
GQ: How do you ensure each song released is unique and reflects your musical style and innovation?
DrumPope: Amid the whole Journey, I also strive to give and deliver the best. We ensure the sound is unique and innovative by always trying to work with the best musicians that are out there. I believe collaboration is key.
GQ: What is your strategy for maintaining such a prolific release schedule while ensuring each song meets your artistic standards?
DrumPope: Having or working with the best team. We are able to maintain our artistic standards at all times.
GQ: Can you share some insights into the technical setup and equipment provided by Mackie South Africa for this project?
DrumPope: AMPD has sponsored world-class recording equipment to help me smash the record. They gave us monitors, top-quality recording microphones, headphones and a high- end audio interface.
GQ: How are you planning to celebrate once you achieve the record of releasing over 1100 songs?
DrumPope: We are planning to have a splash party at Newtown Junction at AMPD Studio, mainly because we going to be spending a lot of time there, breaking this record.
GQ: What impact do you hope this Guinness World Record attempt will have on the global recognition of South African music?
DrumPope: I hope it showcases the boundless creativity of South African music to the world.
GQ: How important has the support from your key partners been in reaching your milestones?
DrumPope: The unwavering support, commitment, and belief in the Guinness World Record experience. It makes it a lot easier to move around, and get the reach that we wish to get, because now we can tap into both the Creative Communities of Ampd and MTN, our voice can now be heard on a bigger scale.
GQ: What advice would you give to aspiring musicians who are inspired by your journey and record attempt?
DrumPope: To never give up, and always chase your dreams. It doesn’t matter where you are in life, or what you have, where you come from. Always use what you have, and don’t wait for tomorrow for something you can do.
GQ: What are your plans after achieving this record, and how do you envision the future of your music career?
DrumPope: I always strive to stay at the top of the game; great music, production, and collaborations. I always look for greater things within the entertainment space.