Gyde
Open prototypeProto
Back to all New York City places

New York City, New York / History

Electric Lady Studios

Commissioned by Jimi Hendrix in 1968, this legendary Greenwich Village recording studio is one of the world's first artist-owned facilities, blending futuristic design with a rich legacy of hit records.

Open prototype Official site Get directions
Electric Lady Studios
electricladystudios.com, og_image_electricladystudios.com

What is Electric Lady Studios known for?

It is one of the world's first artist-owned recording studios, commissioned by Jimi Hendrix in 1968. It is recognized as one of the oldest, most famous, and most successful studios, continuing to attract contemporary artists due to its legacy and the hit records produced there.

Where is it located?

Electric Lady Studios is located at 52 West Eighth Street in Greenwich Village, New York City, NY 10011.

Who designed the studio?

The studio was designed by architect John Storyk and audio engineer Eddie Kramer.

What is special about the architecture and design?

Designed to suit Jimi Hendrix's specific technology and atmosphere preferences, the studio featured a futuristic design with a huge control room, a large console, and a theatrical lighting system capable of casting any color.

Which famous artists have recorded there?

In addition to Jimi Hendrix, the studio has hosted Stevie Wonder during his classic period, as well as AC/DC, The Clash, Foreigner, the Cars, Weezer, and the Soulquarian collective.

What should I check before going?

Use Gyde for context, then check official sources for current hours, tickets, construction, and closures.

What to know

Electric Lady Studios is a historic recording facility located at 52 West Eighth Street in Greenwich Village, New York City. Commissioned by rock musician Jimi Hendrix in 1968, the studio was designed by architect John Storyk, a 22-year-old Princeton graduate, and audio engineer Eddie Kramer to specifically suit Hendrix's technological and atmospheric preferences. The project was completed by 1970, creating a state-of-the-art space that represented an innovation in the industry as an artist-owned studio. The facility's design was influenced by Hendrix's desire for a space where he could entertain friends, evolving from a concept of a recording studio that functioned like a nightclub. To achieve this, the studio featured a futuristic recording environment with a huge control room and console, complemented by a theatrical lighting system capable of casting any color to match Hendrix's creative moods. Studio A stands as the most famed and sought-after room in the complex. It hosted Hendrix's final recordings in 1970, including tracks such as 'Freedom,' 'Dolly Dagger,' and 'Angel.' Following Hendrix's sessions, Stevie Wonder utilized the room to record his classic period albums, including 'Music Of My Mind' and 'Innervisions.' Over the decades, the studio has maintained its prestige, attracting contemporary artists and legendary acts. During the 1980s and 1990s, Studio A saw the production of AC/DC's 'Back In Black,' The Clash's 'Combat Rock,' and Weezer's 'Blue Album.' The legacy of the space continues to lure superstars who record Gold and Platinum hits today.

Visitor tips

  • Allow a few minutes to photograph the exterior of the building at 52 West Eighth Street.
  • Wear comfortable walking shoes as you explore the surrounding Greenwich Village neighborhood.
  • Check the official website for any public events or rare tour opportunities, as it is a working studio.

Nearby context

Located in the heart of Greenwich Village, Electric Lady Studios is situated on West Eighth Street, reflecting the neighborhood's long history as a hub for artistic expression and rock music culture.

Sources

Evidence and links