On Friday 31 January, Nairobi’s Geco Café will be home to an extraordinary musical feat—one that not only pushes the boundaries of performance, but also challenges the limits of human endurance. Renowned trumpeter and producer, Mackinlay Mutsembi, is officially attempting to set a Guinness World Record for the longest continuous trumpet performance: playing non-stop for 24 hours.
Mackinlay’s audience were already left in awe after his previous 12-hour performance at the same venue in October 2024. But this world-record attempt is about more than just the music. It’s a celebration of resilience, creativity, and the relentless pursuit of excellence—values that Mackinlay holds dear.
A man of remarkable versatility and passion, Mackinlay is widely known for his contributions to Kenya’s music scene and his influential role in youth mentorship. Often referred to as “Africa’s Trumpeter”, Mackinlay is the founder and director of the Nairobi Horns Project, Afrolect Jazz, and Afrolect Academy. His commitment to fostering new talent is exemplified through the Academy, where he offers masterclasses to inspire and train the next generation of musicians.
A Performance that Defies Limits
Mackinlay follows the philosophy of Kenyan marathon legend Eliud Kipchoge, whose mantra “No human is limited” has resonated globally. Mackinlay’s attempt is a living, breathing embodiment of this belief, demonstrating the power of perseverance, dedication, and the will to go beyond what seems achievable.
This isn’t just a concert,” Mackinlay explains. “It’s a journey of self-discovery, a testament to human potential, and an opportunity to inspire creatives to test the boundaries of what’s possible.”
The 24-hour concert promises to blend his diverse musical influences with the energy and rhythm of Nairobi’s music scene. Mackinlay is assembling a stellar lineup of musicians and bands to accompany him, each contributing to the dynamic repertoire. The performances will span genres, reflecting his global musical journey, and providing an eclectic blend of rhythms, melodies, and storytelling that fans have come to expect from the gifted trumpeter.
Preparation: Six Months of Dedication
A challenge of this magnitude demands exceptional preparation. Mackinlay has spent the last six months gearing up for the event, pushing both his physical and mental limits. The performance itself will require more than just musical expertise—it demands top-tier physical endurance and unshakable mental fortitude.
To prepare, Mackinlay has worked with trainer to undergo a rigorous fitness program, including outdoor sessions and unique challenges that mimic the stress and strain of performing for 24 hours straight. The physical demands are nothing short of intense, and he is ready to push through any fatigue to achieve greatness.
Join the Journey
The road to this world-record attempt is as captivating as the performance itself. Fans and supporters from around the world can follow Mackinlay’s journey on his social media platforms—Instagram, TikTok, and Twitter where his handle is @mackinlay_music. Here, he has been documenting his preparations, sharing behind-the-scenes moments, and connecting with his audience. It’s fascinating to see these intimate views into what it takes to prepare for such an ambitious undertaking.
This 24-hour trumpet performance is more than a feat of endurance—it’s a celebration of the human spirit, a call to creatives everywhere to challenge themselves and reach beyond the imaginable. Mackinlay Mutsembi is about to make history, and you won’t want to miss it.
Words by Loice Konga @kloice
All images (except feature image) by Rex Maina @rexmaina
Feature image by Legend Shot It @legend_shot_it