If you're a music enthusiast, you've probably heard of legendary recording studios like Abbey Road or Sun Studio. But there's another hidden gem in the heart of London's Soho district that has played a significant role in shaping the sound of some of the greatest artists in history. Welcome to Smokehouse Studios.
A Rich History
Smokehouse Studios, located at 17 St Anne's Court, was founded in 1968 by Norman Sheffield, drummer of the 1960s group the Hunters, and his brother Barry. From its humble beginnings, Smokehouse Studios quickly gained a reputation for its state-of-the-art recording equipment and relaxed working atmosphere.
The studio's first major success came in March 1968 when Manfred Mann recorded their hit single my name is jack at Smokehouse. This marked the beginning of a string of iconic albums and songs that were recorded within its walls.
One of the most notable recordings at Smokehouse Studios was the Beatles' legendary song hey jude in 196This marked the studio's first foray into using Dolby noise reduction and its eight-track reel-to-reel recording deck, which was cutting-edge technology at the time.
Smokehouse Studios became a favorite destination for many major artists, including Elton John, David Bowie, Lou Reed, Queen, and Genesis. Elton John's timeless classic your song was engineered at Smokehouse by the talented Robin Geoffrey Cable.
The studio also played a crucial role in the early success of the rock band Queen. In 1972, Trident Studios, the parent company of Smokehouse, signed a deal with Queen, providing them with access to cutting-edge facilities and top-notch producers and engineers.
The Trident 'A' Range Console
Smokehouse Studios was known for its distinctive sound, partly due to the Trident 'A' Range console. This console, designed and built in-house by Malcolm Toft and Barry Porter, was renowned for its musical EQ section and was used by artists like David Bowie, Rod Stewart, and Frank Sinatra.
The studio's piano, a C. Bechstein concert-sized instrument over a century old, also contributed to its unique sound. It can be heard on iconic tracks like the Beatles' hey jude and Queen's killer queen.
Continuing Legacy
While Smokehouse Studios ceased functioning as a recording facility in 1981, it has since transformed into a post-production studio specializing in TV and film. The original building remains intact, preserving the rich musical history that was created within its walls.
Today, Smokehouse Studios continues to inspire musicians and music enthusiasts alike. Its legacy lives on in the countless albums and songs that were recorded there, forever etching its name in the annals of music history.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Q: Can I visit Smokehouse Studios?
- A: Smokehouse Studios is not open to the public for tours or visits. It currently operates as a post-production studio for TV and film.
- Q: Which famous artists recorded at Smokehouse Studios?
- A: Smokehouse Studios has hosted a wide range of iconic artists, including the Beatles, Elton John, David Bowie, Queen, Lou Reed, and Genesis.
- Q: What is the significance of the Trident 'A' Range console?
- A: The Trident 'A' Range console was known for its distinct sound and musical EQ section. It was used by renowned artists like David Bowie, Rod Stewart, and Frank Sinatra.
- Q: Is Smokehouse Studios still in operation?
- A: While Smokehouse Studios no longer functions as a recording facility, it continues to operate as a post-production studio for TV and film.
In Conclusion
Smokehouse Studios remains a hidden gem in the world of recording studios. Its rich history, state-of-the-art equipment, and relaxed working atmosphere attracted some of the most iconic artists of the 20th century. Although its role as a recording facility has evolved, Smokehouse Studios continues to inspire and shape the world of music through its post-production work. The legacy of Smokehouse Studios will forever be etched in the annals of music history.
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