Highbury Studio, nestling in the heart of King's Heath, Birmingham, was more than just a recording venue. It was a symbol of an era defined by analogue sound and boundless creativity. Founded by Bob Lamb and later managed by John Mostyn, this studio became a key player in the history of British music, hosting legends like UB40, Duran Duran and Ocean Colour Scene. The journey from its founding in the early 1980s, through its peak in the late 1990s, to its eventual closure in 2016 is a story worth sharing.
The Founding of Highbury Studio
Bob Lamb's first set up a recording/mixing studio known as the "Home of Hits" in his ground floor flat at 68 Cambridge Road. In 1980 he then opened the Highbury Studio in a former cricket bat factory at 122A Highbury Road
It quickly made a name for itself. Its reputation for quality sound and welcoming atmosphere attracted many artists seeking a place to experiment with their music.
Bob Lamb, known for his inventive methods, was determined to create a studio that allowed artists to thrive without the stress often found in larger recording spaces. Highbury was fitted with top-notch analog equipment, crucial for capturing the rich sound that musicians yearned for. The studio often facilitated recordings that defined genres. By 1983, Bob had earned the respect of countless musicians, leading to the studio's increase in bookings by a staggering 75% compared to its first year.
UB40 and the Birth of a Legend
UB40's debut album, "Signing Off" was recorded at Bob Lamb's Home of Hits in Cambridge Road This Birmingham-based reggae group brought a revolutionary sound that merged traditional reggae with a catchy pop appeal.
Bob Lamb collaborated closely with UB40, employing innovative recording techniques that showcased their unique style. Their sessions were marked by a creative synergy, where the relaxed atmosphere encouraged exploration. As a result, "Signing Off" went on to become a massive hit. It climbed to No. 2 in the UK Albums Chart and has sold over 1 million copies to date. Songs like "Food for Thought" and "Kingston Town" from this album still resonate in music today, showcasing the enduring influence of their time recording with Bob lamb.
A Venue for Duran Duran
As Highbury Studio gained fame, it attracted a range of notable talents, including Duran Duran. Known for their innovative blend of new wave and synth-pop, Duran Duran sought a unique space to record their groundbreaking sound.
Highbury Studio's analogue setup was pivotal for crafting the bold sounds that characterized Duran Duran. The combination of synthesizers and traditional rock elements found a home in this nurturing studio environment. The collaboration between the band and studio staff, especially under the guidance of John Mostyn, led to the creation of tracks that defined an era. Songs like "Girls on Film" and "Hungry Like the Wolf" emerged from their sessions, contributing to a stunning rise in their career. By the mid-1980s, Duran Duran would become one of the most influential bands of their time, with over 100 million records sold worldwide.
Ocean Colour Scene & The Mid-90s Rise
The 1990s ushered in another significant phase for Highbury Studio with the arrival of Ocean Colour Scene. This band was influential in the Britpop movement and continued the tradition of high-quality recordings at Highbury.
Their albums featured a distinct blend of rock and thoughtful lyricism that resonated with a wide audience. In 1996, their album "Moseley Shoals" was a commercial success, reaching No. 2 on the UK Albums Chart and earning platinum status after selling over 300,000 copies. Ocean Colour Scene 's time at Highbury Studio contributed to their rising confidence and helped solidify the studio’s legacy within British music.
The Closure of Highbury Studio
Despite its success and prominence, Highbury Studio faced challenges that led to its closure in 2016. The music industry was undergoing a seismic shift, with digital recording becoming the preferred method among artists.
Many analogue studios found it hard to continue operating profitably. For instance, between 1996 and 1999, the number of operating analogue studios in the UK dropped by over 40%. Unfortunately, Highbury Studio couldn’t sustain itself amid these changes and closed its doors, marking the end of an influential chapter in music history.
Recording of Rubber Soul Rebound
One of the last recordings made at the Highbury Studio was King's Heath Walk of Fame's 50th anniversary re-make of The Beatles' Rubber Soul album entitled "Rubber Soul Rebound" engineered by Rob Peters and featuring The Move's Trevor Burton, Fuzzbox's Vix and Her Mschiefs plus many other great local musicians.
ABOVE: Trevor Burton recording at Highbury Studio his interpretation of the George Harrison song "If I Needed Someone" for Rubber Soul Rebound
The Rain Studio: A Short-Lived Reincarnation
Although Highbury Studio was gone, all hope was not lost. The Rain Studio emerged, attempting to recapture the essence of Highbury using updated technology.
This new studio attracted some interest, but it struggled to meet the high standards set by its predecessor, failing to establish a solid presence in a rapidly evolving music landscape. The overwhelming shift towards digital recording methods and changing consumer preferences left the Rain Studio unable to gain lasting traction. Eventually, like its ancestor, it faded into obscurity, becoming another footnote in King's Heath's vibrant musical narrative.
When the Rain Studio closed down, the building was converted into a private residence.
The Legacy of Highbury Studio
Highbury Studio may no longer exist, but its unmistakable influence on music can never be overshadowed. It was more than just a recording space; it was a nurturing ground for creativity, where artists could explore their musical visions.
Musicians who recorded at Highbury carry with them the memories of those impactful sessions. The soundscapes crafted within its walls continue to inspire new generations of artists. The impact of Highbury Studio on music history remains a testament to the passion and talent of everyone involved.
A Legacy Worth Remembering
The story of Highbury Studio in King's Heath is one filled with creativity, collaboration, and change. From the reggae rhythms of UB40 to the evolving sounds of new wave with Duran Duran and the anthems of Britpop by Ocean Colour Scene, the studio played an integral role in shaping contemporary music.
Though its doors may be closed, the music produced at Highbury Studio endures. It is cherished by fans and musicians alike, echoing the spirit of an exceptional time in music history. Reflecting on the legacy of this iconic space, we can’t help but celebrate the contributions made and the lives touched by the magic that once filled its walls.
What tales would the site tell if it could speak? Highbury Studio remains a key part of our musical heritage, embodying the essence of creativity and inspiration that continues to resonate today.
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