In London, Abbey Road’s Studio One is a place where even a small change can disrupt its legendary status. Hosting renowned artists like Adele, Harry Styles, and U2, as well as recording the iconic scores of “Star Wars,” “Harry Potter,” and “Wicked,” this studio holds immense historical significance. After nearly a century since its inception, Studio One recently underwent a six-month, multimillion-pound renovation. The main focus of this refurbishment was to preserve one crucial element: the unparalleled sound quality.
Sally Davies, the managing director of Abbey Road Studios, emphasized the importance of maintaining the studio’s acoustics without altering its essence. The reverb of the 4,844-square-foot room has been meticulously preserved at its original 2.3 seconds, ensuring that the sound remains unchanged. The studio’s Art Deco wall panels have been left untouched, with only minor maintenance such as wall cleaning and floor refinishing.
Studio One, inaugurated in 1931, holds a special place in music history as the world’s first recording studio. It has been a pilgrimage site for music enthusiasts worldwide, with over a million visitors annually paying homage to this iconic location. Not only renowned for its association with The Beatles, who used Studio Two extensively, but Studio One also witnessed historic moments like the first global live performance of “All You Need Is Love” in 1967.
With its spacious layout capable of accommodating large orchestras and choirs simultaneously, Studio One is a preferred choice for recording film soundtracks. Hollywood productions frequently rely on Abbey Road Studios for scoring, making it a cornerstone of the film industry. Over the years, Studio One has seen a diverse range of musicians and composers creating unforgettable music, from classical legends like Sir Edward Elgar to contemporary composers like Daniel Pemberton.
As visitors stand on the balcony, gazing at the 40-foot-high room, they witness a space where cinematic history has been made. From classic films like “Raiders of the Lost Ark” to modern blockbusters like “Black Panther,” Studio One continues to be a hub for musical creativity and excellence. The legacy of Abbey Road’s Studio One lives on, preserving its magical aura for generations to come.
Dan Pemberton has been recording in Studio One since 2009 and describes it as his “creative home” and a “spectacular space.” Despite its unassuming exterior, once inside the studio, which he likens to the size of a football pitch, Pemberton has even had a game of football there. Known for scoring films such as “Spider-Man: Across the Spider Verse,” “Ferrari,” and “The Trial of the Chicago 7,” as well as creating theme songs like “Slow Horses” and “Strange Game” with Mick Jagger, Pemberton emphasizes the significance of creating moments in Studio One that will be remembered for years to come.
Reflecting on the personal and musical stories that have unfolded within Studio One, Pemberton mentions the intriguing presence of ghosts in the space. Sally Davies, the managing director, also acknowledges the historical charm that permeates Studio One, noting the spiritual and magical atmosphere that artists sense when they enter the room.
As Abbey Road Studios reopens, Pemberton’s scores were featured in a dance performance choreographed by Joseph Toonga and remixed by Jordan Rakei. Toonga, inspired by the grandeur of the studio, blended hip-hop, krumping, and ballet in his dance routine.
While the first secret Hollywood client to utilize Studio One post-refurbishment remains undisclosed, one notable plan involves recording the unique sound of the new railings for a movie soundtrack. Despite initial concerns about the bars disrupting the room’s acoustics, Pemberton appreciates the distinctive noise they produce when disturbed, foreseeing its inclusion in future film scores.
