I've worked in the music industry for 8 years (record labels, been on tour, music magazines... all…read moreof it), have dated famous musicians, and still maintain my friendships and contacts. This all means that I am VERY jaded to the industry and not much, at this point in life, impresses me. So, when something comes along that brightens even my cynical attitude; then it must be something special. That is precisely what the Alley Studios in North Hollywood is and 'special' is an understatement.
The Alley Studios is located on the corner of Lankershim/Ostego in the epicenter of the North Hollywood Arts District. From the exterior, one would this is an abandoned building as it is somewhat run-down and there are no apparent windows anywhere. This unsuspecting facade pulls the wool over everyone's eyes as the Alley Studios is basically a legendary facility dripping with music industry history. So what exactly, IS, the Alley Studios?
Imagine an incognito basement owned by the coolest punk rocker you know, marry it with a small bar-type intimate performance stage, melt it with a recording studio and creative space, and bake it to perfection with a lounge. The ending result is Alley Studios. When you first walk in from the front (front and back entrances are available), you will see a room to your left with an intimate stage area available for performances or events that transports you to the coolest bar/concert venue in the 70s/80s. Keep walking down the narrow hall to find a lounge-type room with bar and a lovely garden-esque back patio outdoor space. The Alley Studios also has a basement, recording studios, loft etc; available for artists. Basically, this IS the place for public performances or artists wanting to write and record music or just escape the outside world.
Which is PRECISELY what happens in the Alley Studios. This spot has housed literally every single musical legend past and present be it recording or just hanging out. You name it and they have been there. Want some examples? The Beatles, The Rolling Stones, Jimi Hendrix, Alice Cooper, Roseanne Cash, Sister Sledge, Tom Petty... even to Jack White, Fergie, Chili Peppers, etc and so forth. In fact, the back lounge rooms consist of white brick walls that all the artists have signed. The Alley Studios allows you to photograph these walls but signs proclaim that no touching is allowed.
Again, I am RARELY impressed but something about the energy is overwhelmingly amazing which is probably because no one would suspect this small, hidden building to have such amazing history. I mean, did you know about this place? I didn't, and I live two minutes WALKING distance from it!
I went to the Alley Studios for an album release performance/party and the staff from the door to the bar was very kind. No one was stuck-up and snooty which is the usual for Hollywood/LA venues and recording studios and even the staff seemed grateful to be involved with the facility. They happily explained the venue history and pointed out the big names on the brick walls.
For those interested in the paranormal, the Alley Studios is supposedly haunted with many experiencing spirits or entities. Take that as you will.
The Alley Studios is just drop-dead amazing. The history and energy of the place is riveting but with an humble, quiet air. I really hope that the Alley Studios starts to house more public performances so that people can learn about it and experience it for themselves. Apparently there is a book in the works that will be pitched to publishers about the background of the facility. So whether you are a musician seeking a creative/recording space or just a fan that can make it to a performance at Alley Studios; DO check it out!
