Recording studios are where the magic happens—turning raw talent into timeless music. These spaces combine world-class equipment, acoustics, and atmosphere to inspire artists globally, making some of the biggest hits. Here’s WMV’s staff picks countdown of the 10 best music studios in the world.
10. Ocean Sound Recording Studio – Giske, Norway
Nestled along the Norwegian Sea, Ocean Sound Recording Studio is a tranquil retreat where breathtaking natural beauty meets cutting-edge recording technology. Located on the remote island of Giske, off Norway’s northwest coast, this hidden gem offers musicians a unique creative haven. With a population of just 700, Giske provides the perfect setting for inspiration and isolation.
The studio, purpose-built by cousins Ante and Lars Giskeødegård, seamlessly blends into its surroundings of fjords, mountains, and ocean views. Its warm interiors, vintage decor, and carefully crafted design integrate nature into the artistic process, creating an atmosphere that fosters creativity. Renowned artists such as Arcade Fire and A-ha have been drawn to its serene environment and exceptional acoustics. Ocean Sound Recording Studio is a true fusion of music, nature, and innovation.
9. Electric Lady Studios – New York, USA
Founded by Jimi Hendrix in 1970, Electric Lady Studios is a cultural and musical landmark nestled in Greenwich Village, New York City. Located at 52 West Eighth Street, the studio was designed by architect John Storyk and audio engineer Eddie Kramer to be a haven for creative expression. Although Hendrix tragically passed away just ten weeks after it opened, his vision set the stage for a legacy that would endure for decades.
Originally the site of The Village Barn nightclub, the building transformed into a state-of-the-art recording space that attracted legends like Stevie Wonder, Led Zeppelin, and David Bowie in its early years. In the late 1990s and early 2000s, it became the creative epicenter for the Soulquarians collective, with artists like D’Angelo, Erykah Badu, and Common crafting groundbreaking albums within its walls.
After a period of financial hardship, the studio was revitalized in 2010 under the guidance of investor Keith Stoltz and studio manager Lee Foster. Their efforts restored Electric Lady to its former glory, combining its rich history with cutting-edge facilities.
Today, Electric Lady Studios remains a cornerstone of music history, drawing contemporary stars like Taylor Swift, U2, and John Mayer. Its vibrant atmosphere, iconic status, and state-of-the-art equipment continue to inspire innovation, making it a symbol of artistic excellence.
8. Real World Studios – Box, UK
Founded by Peter Gabriel in 1987, Real World Studios is a renowned residential recording complex located in the serene English countryside village of Box, Wiltshire, near Bath. Housed in the historic Box Mill, the studio blends state-of-the-art facilities with serene natural surroundings, aligning with Gabriel’s vision of creative spaces incorporating light, air, and water.
Closely tied to Real World Records, Real World Publishing, and the WOMAD Festival, the studio serves as a springboard for global music. It has introduced artists like Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan, Youssou N’Dour, and Afro Celt Sound System to Western audiences. Gabriel’s groundbreaking album Passion further bridged world music with pop culture.
The studio’s centerpiece, the “Big Room,” is a 2,000-square-foot space featuring a 72-channel SSL 9000 XL K Series console, expansive views, and Dolby Surround 7.1 capabilities. Additional facilities include the Wood Room, Red Room, rehearsal and writing spaces, and luxury residential accommodations designed for extended creative retreats.
Over the years, Real World Studios has hosted iconic artists such as Beyoncé, Coldplay, Amy Winehouse, Harry Styles, and Paul Simon, along with film and TV productions like Quantum of Solace and The Golden Compass. It continues to be a hub of innovation, providing a collaborative environment for artists worldwide.
7. Metropolis Studios – London, UK
Known for its exceptional mastering and mixing services, Metropolis Studios is a powerhouse in European music production. Artists such as Adele, Queen, and Amy Winehouse have trusted its facilities for their projects.
Metropolis Studios, was established in 1989 by Gary Langan, Carey Taylor, Karin Clayton, and Alexander Skeaping, is a renowned music production company located in the historic Power House building in Chiswick, London. Over the years, the company expanded into three divisions: Metropolis Studios, Metropolis Mastering, and Digital Media/Productions. In 2013, Metropolis was bought by Kainne Clements under the name Metropolis London Music Limited, and in 2017, Richard Connell, a former Sony Music executive, became CEO.
The Power House, built in 1901, originally served as a power station for West London’s trams before being decommissioned in 1920. It faced decline until it was listed in 1975 and later converted into flats and a recording studio. Metropolis Studios now occupies the lower part of the building, offering five recording and mixing studios along with production rooms.
Metropolis Mastering, founded in 1993, has become renowned for high-standard audio mastering. It houses five state-of-the-art mastering rooms and offers services for vinyl cutting and online mastering.
In 2021, Metropolis launched its 3D Audio studio, the highest resolution Dolby Atmos facility in the UK, which serves as a hub for immersive mixing in various formats. Amazon Music partnered with Metropolis for this venture, leading to collaborations with major artists and labels for spatial audio mixes.
6. Blackbird Studio – Nashville, USA
Situated in the heart of Nashville, Blackbird Studio boasts nine uniquely designed studios and an extensive collection of vintage gear. It’s a go-to destination for country and rock stars, including Taylor Swift, Jack White, and Keith Urban.
Blackbird Studio, located in Berry Hill, Tennessee, was founded in 2002 by John McBride and Martina McBride, who purchased and rebuilt the Creative Recording studio. Blackbird has become one of the largest recording facilities in Nashville, known for its extensive collection of vintage musical instruments and recording equipment.
The studio’s origins trace back to 1982 when Buzz Cason expanded his Creative Workshop into Creative Workshop II, which was later sold and renamed Creative Recording. John McBride, with his background in live sound and concert production, bought the studio in 2002 and renamed it Blackbird, inspired by his Beatles fandom. He invested $3 million in expanding and upgrading the facility, which included adding a Neve 8078 analog mixing console.
Over the years, Blackbird grew with the addition of Studios C, D, F, and G, featuring advanced design and specialized equipment. It became Nashville’s largest recording studio by 2015, offering an impressive selection of vintage microphones and exceptional recording spaces. Blackbird has hosted renowned producers and engineers like George Massenburg, Tony Brown, and Ethan Johns, cementing its reputation as a top-tier studio in the music industry.
5. Hans Zimmer’s Studio – California, USA
Renowned composer Hans Zimmer’s studio is a cutting-edge space for film score production. Its innovative setup and custom-built equipment have been the foundation for cinematic masterpieces like Inception and The Lion King.
Initially a small setup, the studio grew alongside Zimmer’s career, evolving into a versatile space designed for both traditional orchestration and modern sound design. Today, it’s equipped with cutting-edge digital tools, an impressive array of instruments, and a range of spaces for recording orchestras, experimenting with synths, and fine-tuning sound effects. This adaptability allows Zimmer to push the boundaries of music, blending the old with the new to craft emotionally powerful soundtracks.
At its heart, the studio fosters collaboration. Musicians, orchestrators, and sound designers work together, contributing their expertise to Zimmer’s vision. With an extensive collection of rare instruments and state-of-the-art mixing equipment, Zimmer’s studio is where innovation and creativity meet to shape the music that elevates cinematic storytelling.
Zimmer’s studio remains at the forefront of film scoring, constantly evolving to meet the demands of modern filmmaking while preserving the artistry that has made his work legendary.
4. Miraval Studios – Provence, France
Miraval Studios is now co-owned by Brad Pitt and has been revived as a modern recording space with deep historical roots. Located in the Château de Miraval estate in Provence, France, it was founded in 1977 by French pianist Jacques Loussier and sound engineer Patrice Quef. Originally known as Studio Miraval, it gained fame with Pink Floyd’s recording of The Wall in 1979 and hosted numerous artists like AC/DC, Muse, and The Cranberries. After ownership changed in 1998, the studio ceased operations following the 2011 acquisition of the estate by Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie. In 2022, Brad Pitt, alongside French producer Damien Quintard, fully restored the studio, rebranding it as Miraval Studios. The studio now features cutting-edge equipment including a hybrid analog-digital console and Dolby Atmos system. It has hosted artists such as Sade, Travis Scott, and Nick Cave and continues to be a key location for music and film projects.
Famous for hosting Pink Floyd during their recording of The Wall, Miraval now blends its legendary heritage with state-of-the-art technology, attracting artists from all over the world.
3. Abbey Road Studios – London, UK
The world’s most iconic recording studio, Abbey Road, is synonymous with groundbreaking music. Originally EMI Recording Studios, is a famous music recording facility located at 3 Abbey Road, London. It was established in 1931 by the Gramophone Company, later becoming EMI. The Beatles were its most notable clients, recording much of their music there, including the iconic Abbey Road album. In 1976, the studio was renamed to Abbey Road, and in 2010, the British government protected it with Grade II listed status to prevent major alterations after potential threats of sale to property developers. The studio is now owned by Universal Music Group’s Virgin Records.
Throughout its history, Abbey Road has hosted numerous influential artists and producers. It played a major role in both the development of rock and roll and film scoring, and in 1983, the public was allowed to view Studio Two, where the Beatles recorded much of their work. Despite financial challenges, including an attempt to sell the studio in 2010, Abbey Road remained operational, with the studios eventually becoming part of Universal Music.
In 2015, Abbey Road Institute was founded to provide education in music production and audio engineering, with locations around the world.
2. Circle House Studios – Miami, USA
Circle House Studios, founded in the mid-90s by Ian Lewis of the reggae band Inner Circle, has established itself as a leading mixing studio in Miami for nearly 30 years. Known for producing chart-topping hits like “Bad Boys” from Copsand Pharrell Williams’ “Happy,” the studio offers a unique, creative, and collaborative environment that combines professionalism with a laid-back Miami vibe.
Equipped with high-end gear, including Genelec subwoofers and Yamaha HS7 speakers, Circle House ensures top-quality sound for every project. It’s no wonder that artists like Pharrell Williams, Miley Cyrus, Beyoncé, and DJ Khaled favor the studio, particularly for its SSL hybrid analog-digital console. With its pool, outdoor patio, and other amenities, Circle House provides a relaxing yet productive atmosphere, making it a go-to spot for world-class recording.
As a hub of creativity, Circle House Studios offers a full range of services—recording, mixing, mastering, and post-production—catering to a global community of musicians, producers, and artists. With its top-notch facilities and rich legacy, Circle House has cemented its place in the history of music, particularly within the realms of reggae, hip-hop, and Latin music.
1. Geejam Studio – Port Antonio, Jamaica
Geejam also offers recording studio setups in each of its private luxury villas, along with pools, chef’s kitchens and extensive art, book and vinyl collections.
At the top of the list is Geejam Studio, an unparalleled destination for music production. Surrounded by Jamaica’s breathtaking scenery, this studio provides a creative haven with state-of-the-art facilities.
Geejam Studios, located in the scenic Portland, Jamaica, has been a premier recording destination for over 25 years, hosting artists like Amy Winehouse, Grace Jones, Drake, Rihanna, and Kanye West. Recently, the studio underwent a major renovation to enhance its offerings with state-of-the-art equipment, a 900-square-foot space with stunning views, and a rooftop bar for relaxation between sessions. The studio is part of the Geejam Hotel, which includes luxury villas like the six-bedroom Cocosan Villa and four-bedroom Panorama Villa, each featuring private recording setups.
Known for its serene, creative environment, Geejam has played a key role in producing hits from artists such as Gwen Stefani, No Doubt, Alicia Keys, and Sam Smith. The studio’s connection to major hits like “Underneath It All” and “Unholy” highlights its significance in the music industry. Geejam also offers a unique experience by curating an ideal creative environment for artists, whether they’re recording in the main studio or in one of the private villas.
Geejam’s appeal goes beyond just its top-tier equipment; it’s a haven for artists seeking inspiration and collaboration in a relaxed, nature-infused setting. The resort’s intimate, creative atmosphere has made it a favorite for songwriting camps and label retreats, with notable events like Dua Lipa’s writing camp for Future Nostalgia. With its legacy of producing chart-topping hits and providing a haven for world-renowned artists, Geejam Studios continues to be a cornerstone in the music industry.
Honorable mentions include:
ONKIO HAUS – Tokyo, Japan: A premier Japanese studio with over 40 years of history, known for its exceptional acoustics and equipment and Island Sound Studios in Hawaii Kai that has hosted stars like Kanye West, Beyonce and Rihanna. Formerly known as Avex Honolulu Studios, it is a full production and audio recording facility sitting on a marina five minutes away from the famed Hanauma Bay snorkeling site
