Conway Recording Studios, a storied Hollywood music studio with a legacy spanning nearly five decades, has been put on the market with an asking price of $15 million. Established in 1976 by sound engineer Buddy Brundo, the studio has played host to a wide range of acclaimed artists, including Burt Bacharach, Fleetwood Mac, Stevie Wonder, U2, Guns N’ Roses, Daft Punk, Taylor Swift, Kendrick Lamar, and recently the Korean pop group BTS.
Located on the edge of Melrose Hill in Los Angeles, the property covers more than an acre and features three studios, office spaces, extensive recording equipment, lounges, and a kitchen designed without a stove to maintain a particular ambiance. Brundo, who is now 83, cited his age and the challenges of operating the studio as reasons for listing the property. Despite his age, Brundo remains active and engaged with the facility, which boasts a distinctive design including large soundproof windows that let in natural light—a departure from the conventional enclosed studio environment.
Conway Studios has maintained relevance in an industry transformed by digital technology and home recording setups. While the rise of digital production tools and music streaming has transformed the recording landscape and reduced the need for traditional studios, industry observers note that facilities with expansive live rooms, vintage equipment, and a rich recording history may be gaining value as they become increasingly difficult to replicate.
Brundo’s vision was to create a relaxed, open-air atmosphere that contrasts with the typical closed, windowless spaces. “You kind of feel like you’re in Hawaii or somewhere else,” said Nicole Mihalka, a real estate broker handling the sale. The site has attracted clientele preferring an organic recording environment, with features such as an advanced air-conditioning and filtration system designed to neutralize smoke and maintain clean air, reflecting the studio’s informal policy toward smoking during sessions.
The studio’s grounds began as a single property but expanded over time through the acquisition and demolition of surrounding houses to create a secluded, garden-like oasis in a busy urban area. The land includes ample parking for high-end vehicles and recreational amenities, including a basketball court recently painted for artist the Weeknd.
Despite the possibility of the property being redeveloped for commercial or residential purposes, Brundo expressed a preference for selling to a buyer who will preserve its musical heritage. Mihalka noted that the recent pushback against AI-generated music has sparked renewed demand for authentic, instrument-heavy recordings, potentially enhancing the appeal of established studios like Conway.
As the music industry continues to evolve, the sale of Conway Recording Studios signals both the end of an era and the potential for new chapters in the world of analog music production in a predominantly digital age.