BBC Radio 2's ‘Friday Night is Music Night’ recently marked Guinness World Records 60th anniversary with a special live edition of its popular show honouring some of the most incredible records that have been set in music - and attempting to set one of its own.
 
At the Mermaid Theatre in London, UK, presenter Ken Bruce (UK) and acclaimed pianist Robert Wells (Sweden) successfully achieved the title for Most ABBA songs played and recognised in one minute, naming an impressive total of 13 tunes by the Swedish pop legends.
 
Separated for the duration of the attempt and under the watchful gaze of official adjudicator Anna Orford, Robert played out the intro to a sucession of ABBA’s 30 best-selling hits while Ken had to correctly identify at least ten to earn the record.
 
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Following the attempt Ken said: “We did it, and I’ve got to say you do feel the pressure when the clock is ticking, but that makes it all the more exciting. I’m used to asking the questions on my Radio 2 ‘PopMaster’ quiz, but the tables have turned this evening. Now I know how it feels."
 
Robert added: “I thoroughly enjoyed the challenge, especially as I’ve never done anything like this before. And now I’ve helped to set a new Guinness World Records title, which is a great honour because ABBA is one of my all-time favourite bands.”
 
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Super Troopers: (l-r) pianist Robert Wells, adjudicator Anna Orford and Radio 2 DJ Ken Bruce
 
Guinness World Records Editor-in-Chief Craig Glenday applauded the duo: “Congratulations to Super Troupers Robert and Ken on a fantastic effort. As with any Guinness World Records attempt, the Winner Takes It All and tonight was no exception – they leave as new world record holders, and That’s The Name of the Game. Stop me, I could go On and On and On. Seriously, stop me…” 
 
During the show, the BBC Concert Orchestra performed songs from the singer with the Most No.1 hit singles by a solo artist (Elvis Presley), the Longest running show on Broadway (The Phantom of the Opera), the person with the Most Oscar nominations (John Williams), the Best-selling playwright (Shakespeare), and the Largest orchestra (7,224 players).
 
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Lewis Carnie, Head of Programmes for BBC Radio 2 said: “Combining a celebration of the Guinness World Records 60th anniversary, while setting a record of our own, is no mean feat. Congratulation to all involved!”