Joseph McGrail-Bateup set the Guinness World Record for the loudest male shout in May 2024 [2, 3].

The achievement marks the first time in more than three decades that the record has been broken, highlighting a rare feat of vocal power.

McGrail-Bateup, a Canberra tradesman and town crier also known as Lord Joseph, reached a volume of 122.4 decibels [1]. This level of sound is comparable to the noise produced by a military jet [1].

The previous Guinness World Record had stood for 32 years [2]. McGrail-Bateup worked with his daughter to select the specific word used for the attempt to ensure the maximum possible volume [3].

Based in Canberra, Australia, the town crier sought to establish an official record-holding shout to complement his role in the community [1, 3]. The attempt was officially announced in May 2024 [2, 3].

“Loudest male shout measured at 122.4 decibels”

The breaking of a 32-year-old record suggests a rare intersection of physical capability and specific vocal training. By achieving a decibel level equivalent to military machinery, McGrail-Bateup demonstrates the extreme upper limits of human vocal projection within the context of traditional town crying.