In a hair-raising tale of perseverance, a Tennessee woman’s enduring commitment to her unique hairstyle has propelled her into the pages of the Guinness World Records.
Tami Manis, hailing from Knoxville, has recently clinched the title of the Guinness Book of World Records’ longest competitive mullet in the female category, a feat that has her hair outshining her own height. Standing at 5-foot-4, or 64 inches tall, her remarkable mullet measures an astonishing 68 inches when stretched out.
A Journey That Began in 1985 Manis embarked on her hair-growing odyssey in 1985, inspired by the music video of the new wave band ‘Til Tuesday’s hit, “Voices Carry.” It was in this video that lead singer Aimee Mann sported a rattail, prompting Manis to declare, “I want one of those.” However, she hesitated, being an overweight teenager from a small town and doubting that the look would be well-received.
In November 1989, influenced by someone close to her who believed she valued her rattail more than their relationship, Manis reluctantly severed her cherished mullet. The decision brought immediate remorse. She confessed, “I still get that feeling of nausea at the thought of cutting (my hair) off now.”
On February 9, 1990, Manis embarked on her mullet-growing journey once again, marking that day as her mullet’s official birthdate.
The Enigmatic Reaction Manis often encounters astonishment when people see her flowing locks. She recounted how people frequently react with an incredulous “Oh my God … is that your hair?” or even question its authenticity.
Maintaining her extraordinary mane is no small task. Her haircare routine involves Hask shampoo and conditioner infused with argan oil, along with leave-in conditioner for easier braiding. Manis also employs an unconventional method for drying her hair – using paper towels.
For the past two decades, her friend Sherry Bushong has faithfully braided her hair every week, a process that takes around an hour and 20 minutes. The intricate French braid at the top gradually extends as Manis transitions from standing to sitting on the edge of her couch. The braid remains in place until her next wash day.
A Noteworthy Record This isn’t Manis’ first venture into competitive hair shows. In the 2022 U.S. Mullet Championships, she competed in the “Femullet” division and secured second place, earning a $300 prize. The competition, which attracts at least 1,000 participants annually, piqued the interest of Guinness World Records.
Subsequently, Guinness established a category for the longest mullet, and Manis decided to participate. She received the thrilling news of her victory when a package arrived on her front porch, leaving her in awe.
Facing the Critics Despite her remarkable achievement, Manis hasn’t been immune to criticism, with some individuals making unkind remarks on her social media posts. One comment, in particular, questioned if her mother would be proud, accompanied by a vomiting emoji.
In response, Manis expressed her belief that her mother would be amused by the situation. She also refuted the notion that “anybody can have long hair,” attributing her lengthy locks to her favorable genetics.
With her head held high, Manis refuses to let negativity dampen her spirits. She even lightened the mood by sharing a throwback photo from nine years ago on her Facebook page, inviting everyone to join in the laughter.
Manis’ journey is a testament to her unwavering dedication to her distinctive style, and her Guinness World Record is a crowning achievement that has immortalized her in the annals of history.