Hundreds of Bagpipers Set New World Record in Melbourne

Hundreds of bagpipers gathered in Melbourne on July 5, 2023, to break a world record by performing AC/DC’s iconic song “It’s a Long Way to the Top.” A total of 374 pipers participated in the event, which took place at Federation Square, captivating thousands of spectators who came to witness the monumental performance.

Among the participants was Les Kenfield, aged 98, representing the Rats of Tobruk Memorial Pipes and Drums. Kenfield, along with fellow band member Kevin Conlon, had previously performed with AC/DC in a famous 1976 music video for the same song. Reflecting on the experience, Kenfield told the Australian Broadcasting Corporation, “It didn’t strike you at the time how big this event is until now. Now it’s one of the greatest things — probably the greatest thing I’ve ever done in my life.”

The event, dubbed “The Great Melbourne Bagpipe Bash,” successfully surpassed the previous record of 333 pipers set in Bulgaria in 2012, as confirmed by the Australian Book of Records. After being declared world record holders, the jubilant pipers celebrated with an encore performance of “Happy Birthday” and “Amazing Grace,” much to the delight of the cheering crowd.

AC/DC Concert Follows Historic Performance

The location of the record-breaking event was significant, situated near the Melbourne Cricket Ground, where AC/DC was scheduled to perform later that day as part of their “Power Up” tour. Fans, many dressed in AC/DC T-shirts, were eager to attend the concert following the pipers’ performance.

One enthusiastic attendee, Keegan Kohler, traveled from Columbus, Ohio, specifically to see the band. He expressed his excitement, stating, “I think Aussie crowds are going to be way better than the US. I think it’s going to be more eventful, more headbanging, more excitement with the crowds.”

As of now, the Guinness World Records has not yet been approached to officially recognize the record attempt. Nevertheless, the event marked a moment of community spirit and musical celebration for both the pipers and the spectators, highlighting the enduring legacy of AC/DC in Australian music culture.