Past Lives of LA’s Legendary Studios: From Movie Theatres to Music Hubs


Evergreen Stage: A Blend of History and Modernity

The iconic Evergreen Stage in Los Angeles, known for its rich history, and the birth of hits from artists such as Frank Sinatra, Michael Jackson, Ray Charles, and Paul McCartney wasn’t always a recording studio. The building once housed a well-known movie theatre – The Magnolia – and opened its doors in the 1940s as a popular spot for cinema lovers in the center of Hollywood.  

But in 1970 when the Magnolia fell into disrepair, it was purchased by a trio of composers; Artie Butler, Charles Fox, and Gayle Levant, who transformed the space into a world-renowned post-production house and recording studio. Under the guidance of Butler, Fox, and Levant, The Magnolia became “Evergreen Studios”, and was shortly thereafter every recording artist and engineer’s dream studio complete with all of the latest recording equipment and abundant space for simultaneous sessions. 

Owned and operated by DiaDan Holdings between 2010 and 2017, the Los Angeles studio has seen its share of stars grace its halls and has even played host to live events and shows, including a recent performance by renowned composer Nan Schwartz titled A Celebration of Original Symphonic Music

Under DiaDan Holdings, the studio underwent major renovations bringing it up to the strict standards of contemporary recording artists. Today, it is equipped with cutting-edge recording technology, including a 72-channel Neve mixing console, and boasts a spacious 3,000-square-foot performing area capable of accommodating orchestras of up to 80 musicians.

The Village: The Perfect Blend of History and Entertainment

The Village Studios, often referred to as “The Village,” is one of Los Angeles’ most iconic recording studios, steeped in history and cultural significance. What sets The Village apart from other studios is its unique location and legacy—it operates out of a former Masonic temple,  originally built in the 1920s. The fact that the building once housed Masons, a fraternal organization known for their secretive practices, is said to lend a certain mystique and aura to the performances recorded between these walls.

Over the years, the space transitioned from a meeting place into a hub for creative expression, eventually becoming a well-renowned recording studio in the 1960s. The studio’s design retains much of its original architectural beauty, including stained glass windows and high, vaulted ceilings, contributing to its distinctive acoustic qualities. 

Thanks to its unique history, The Village has remained a beloved spot for artists and producers alike throughout the decades.

Henson Studios: A Famous Studio Finds a New Purpose

With a rich history that dates back to the early days of the film industry, Henson Studios is one of LA’s best-known production studios. Found in the heart of Hollywood, the building was once home to Charlie Chaplin’s infamous production studio, designed to the actor’s specifications, and featuring multiple soundstages and cutting-edge production facilities for his time. 

As silent film gave way to talkies, the studio found new life when it was purchased in 1966 by Herb Alpert and Jerry Moss, of A&M Records. Under their care, the space was renovated becoming a sought-after recording studio, which included mixing and mastering rooms and reverberation chambers.

In 1999, the studio was sold once again, this time to The Jim Henson Company, of The Muppets Fame, which renamed the facility Henson Recording Studios. Keeping the original Chaplin soundstages still intact, the Henson Studios serve as a reminder of the silent film era and the transformation of LA’s historic landmarks.

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