Sola Benson

In an era where performance often meets spectacle, Nigerian DJ and cultural curator DJ Pretty Play has taken endurance to remarkable heights. The Lagos-based performer is currently in recovery after completing a staggering 300-hour non-stop DJ marathon—an ambitious attempt to set a new Guinness World Records benchmark.

Held at Bay Lounge, the marathon ran from March 3 to March 15, 2026, stretching across 12 days of near-continuous performance. Originally set at 288 hours, the Akwa Ibom-born DJ pushed even further, exceeding her own target in a display of stamina, discipline, and sheer willpower.

Throughout the challenge, DJ Pretty Play delivered an electrifying mix of sounds, weaving through Afrobeats, Afrohouse, Hip-Hop, and Amapiano. Her set remained dynamic, driven not just by genre diversity but by her ability to sustain energy and connect with audiences over an extended period—an aspect that has long defined her reputation behind the decks.

The physical toll, however, has been significant. Following the marathon, she is reportedly receiving medical care for swollen legs, extreme fatigue, and breathing complications, currently requiring oxygen support. These aftereffects underscore the intensity of such an undertaking, even for seasoned performers.

Her journey was not without setbacks. Four days into the attempt, an inadvertent song repetition forced a restart—an obstacle that could have derailed the entire effort. Instead, she pressed on, maintaining the demanding structure of the challenge, which allowed only five-minute breaks per hour. That persistence ultimately carried her through to completion.

Beyond the numbers, the attempt carries broader cultural weight. Known for her clean mixes, inventive transitions, and commanding stage presence, DJ Pretty Play has built a career that includes appearances on Big Brother Naija and performances at the AFRIMMA Awards. She has also collaborated with artists like Magnito and Skales, further cementing her place within the industry.

According to her team, this record attempt is about more than personal achievement. It is positioned as a statement for African women in the global DJ landscape—an effort to challenge stereotypes, spotlight African culture, and inspire a new generation of female creatives to think beyond conventional limits.

While official confirmation from Guinness World Records is still pending, the immediate focus remains on her recovery. Regardless of the final verdict, the marathon stands as a testament to endurance, ambition, and the evolving narrative of African talent on the world stage.