The Legendary Guinness World Record Set in 1983 in Texas

When I was a kid, I remember thinking the Guinness Book of World Records being so cool. The fact that you could do something bigger or better than anyone else in the world seems like an amazing accomplishment. While I have never been able to get my name into the record books that is okay because there was a world record set back in 1983 and I don’t believe it’s going to be beat anytime soon.  

Back in 1983 there was a country musician by the name of Merle Haggard, you’ve probably heard of him before. And he had a gigantic show that was taking place at an iconic Texas music venue by the name of Billy Bob’s Texas. Located in the Fort Worth Stockyards and Merle did something while at the venue and it’s a Guinness World Record that still stands to this day. 

Get our free mobile app

What Did Merle Haggard Do in Texas? 

The Hag decided to take care of his fans that were in attendance that night and bought a round of shots for the entire bar. Billy Bob’s Texas is the World’s Largest Honky Tonk, so Merle ended up buying a total of 5,095 shots of Canadian Club whiskey with a water chaser for everyone. 

How Much Did He Pay? 

The bill for all the alcohol was approximately $12,737, for a total of 40 gallons of whiskey. I don’t know anyone who was in attendance that night, but what a cool story to tell if you were there. More musicians need to act like Merle Haggard.