Aspiring gospel singer stages 40-hour Christmas concert to break festive world record
An aspiring gospel singer used the magic of Christmas to become a record-breaking legend when she performed festive songs for almost two days straight.
Confidence Survival Eyong (Nigeria) claimed the world record for longest marathon singing Christmas songs with an impressive 40 hours of vocal warbling on 21 December, last year.
She staged her very long performance in Lagos, Nigeria, and kept a crowd of people up dancing as she beat the previous record of 31 hours set by Ewaoluwa Olatunji (Nigeria) in 2023.
The 26-year-old business owner and worship leader said she had four reasons for taking on the mammoth singing challenge.
“First, I wanted to challenge myself and rise above every limit I once thought defined me,” she told us.
“This journey was about proving to myself that the impossible is only impossible until I choose to try. It’s about daring to dream with my whole heart, staying disciplined when doubt and uncertainty creep in, and embracing every struggle, every moment of hesitation, and every step that pushes me beyond what I ever imagined I could endure.”
Confidence also wanted to celebrate her faith in a way that could inspire others, to encourage others to take on challenges of their own and to lay a strong foundation as she steps into the music industry.
She said: “This has been more than a career; it’s been a calling, a dream I’ve chased through countless late nights, sacrifices, and moments when giving up felt like the only option.
“I wanted to show the world the depth of my heart, the resilience I’ve fought to cultivate, the relentless work ethic I’ve committed to, and the passion I carry for music and impact.
“This record was not just an attempt. It was the culmination of years of struggle, hope, and enduring faith, a declaration of everything I’ve poured into my craft, and the first step in introducing who I truly am and the artist I’ve always aspired to become.”
Confidence faced a big challenge when organizing her record attempt, as like all marathon records, a lot of planning was required to ensure it all ran smoothly.
And she’s especially grateful to her parents, as well as other supporters, who helped with funding her attempt.
She said: “Despite the limitations, the late nights, and the constant pressure, we managed to pull it off. Breaking the record and setting a new one felt nothing short of miraculous; a testament to faith, resilience, teamwork, and the sheer determination of everyone involved.”
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Confidence took great joy in developing her festive playlist, and says she loves Christmas songs so much because they “carry a timeless sense of joy, hope, and celebration”.
And getting the record was tough.
She told us: “The record attempt was an intense, transformative experience unlike anything I had ever faced. Singing continuously for 40 hours pushed me physically, mentally, and emotionally to the edge.
“Of all marathon attempts, I believe singing is one of the most challenging because it relies entirely on the voice being both the instrument and the tool of endurance. No matter how prepared I was mentally, emotionally, or physically, if my voice failed, everything would collapse.
“That fear was always present, so I carefully chose songs that were comfortable for me to avoid strain. This also made parts of the attempt feel repetitive, but it was necessary for my survival.”
As with all marathon attempts, Confidence earned rest breaks for each hour of continuous activity. She could take them as she earned them or save them up for longer breaks.
That doesn’t make it easy though.
She explained: “Lack of rest took a heavy toll on my body. I became exhausted from both sitting and standing, and at one point I had to use a mop stick for support. It didn’t look ideal on camera, but it was the only way I could continue.
“I barely ate during the 40 hours; just a few spoons of spaghetti and about two slices of bread. I relied mostly on glucose and Lucozade Boost for energy.
“There were moments when I could no longer read the lyrics clearly, and I even experienced minimal hallucinations, dreaming and singing at the same time. It was surreal, and honestly, I don’t fully know how I managed to keep going.”
Confidence’s supporters kept her going through the nights by dancing to keep her alert and engaged.
She’s forever grateful, calling her achievement a “true joint effort”.
She added: “It was gruelling, exhausting, and intense, but it was also an unforgettable testament to endurance, determination, and the sheer power of teamwork.”
It was all worth it though.
“Breaking the record was an indescribable feeling; a mix of pure joy, relief, and awe,” Confidence said.
“After pushing myself physically, mentally, and emotionally for 40 hours, it was surreal to see all the effort, sacrifice, and determination come to fruition.
In that moment, I felt like ‘small me’ had accomplished something truly monumental. It was proof that you don’t have to be more special, more talented, or more anything than anyone else. Having a big dream and the courage to pursue it is enough to achieve greatness.
After singing for 40 hours straight last year, Confidence says she’s got a slower-paced Christmas planned this year.
“I’ll be celebrating Christmas this year quietly with my family, treasuring these moments together after such an intense and life-changing year,” she said.
“Alongside this, I’ll be ministering at a few programmes, sharing music and encouragement with others. It will be a season of gratitude, reflection, and joy; a chance to celebrate not just the holiday, but the journey, the lessons, and the blessings that have carried me through.
“Giving, singing, and being present with loved ones will make this Christmas deeply meaningful and memorable.”
* UK man David Purchase has been in the news attempting this record. We look forward to reviewing his evidence.