HELLO FRIENDS, WELCOME TO THE CHURCH STUDIO
Where homegrown talent rocked the music world.
THE CHURCH STUDIO
And how it started
The historic church was turned into a recording studio and home office to Shelter Records in 1972. Under Leon Russell's leadership, the stone structure served as a creative workshop for songwriters, musicians, engineers, and singers to collaborate, learn, and inspire.
THE TULSA SOUND
Rockabilly, Country, Rock 'n' Roll, and Blues
Although they had different musical gifts, Leon Russell and fellow Oklahoman JJ Cale, are credited for developing the “Tulsa Sound". This genre is described by many to be a laid-back style of blues, country, and rock that helped shaped Southern-style rock-and-roll. The most notable, non-Okie— example of the Tulsa Sound is Eric Clapton. Others believe the "Tulsa Sound" is more of a brotherhood or collaboration of creatives that honor those musical pioneers that came before them.
PARTNER WITH THE CHURCH STUDIO MUSIC FOUNDATION
RECENT BLOG POSTS
EPISODE 1 – GARY BUSEY
Today we are speaking with the Oscar-nominated actor and multi-talented musician; Gary Busey! Let Gary bring you into his world as we explore his musical beginnings, dear friendship with Leon Russell, the Buddy Holly role, and what he’s up to these days (cartoon?). You may even get to hear him sing a tune or two!
VOLUNTEER SPOTLIGHT – BILL AVERY
Bill Avery, Leon Lifer and a Church Studio volunteer, is a dedicated, knowledgeable, and fun-loving ambassador for the Church and for Leon’s legacy. Although he lives in New Jersey, we have been fortunate to have Bill travel to Tulsa, Oklahoma, and assist with concerts and book signings. Tell us about yourself. My name is Bill…
BONUS: MEET THE “FROM THE CHAMBER” TEAM
We are proud to introduce the first episode of our very own podcast “From The Chamber.” Inspired by the rare and exquisite subterranean echo chambers housed beneath the legendary Church Studio. We’ll be taking a deep dive into everything music with all of your favorite recording artists, producers, engineers, and other notable music connoisseurs. Our mission is simple: to deepen our listeners’ understanding and appreciation of brilliant music and the masterful art of capturing it!
CHURCH STUDIO INSTAGRAM