Apple and Spotify are stepping up their game with new state-of-the-art studios in LA, each with their own unique angle. It’s a clear signal of where the industry’s headed.
This new year has brought exciting developments for two of the biggest names in music streaming, as Spotify and Apple Music reveal their latest studio spaces in Los Angeles. Both companies are making significant investments in their infrastructure, with Apple Music opening a music-focused creative campus in Culver City and Spotify launching a video-centered podcasting studio in Hollywood.
Apple Music’s studio is located in the vibrant Hayden Tract area of Culver City, housed within a building designed by architect Eric Owen Moss. This location emphasizes the connection between music and the rich tapestry of film and television in the area. Meanwhile, Spotify’s Sycamore Studios sits in Hollywood’s emerging Sycamore media corridor, strategically placed near major labels and other key players in the audio sector.
Apple has positioned its Culver City studio as a hub for creative collaboration. The facility features two advanced studios dedicated to Apple Music Radio, a specialized mixing room for Spatial Audio that uses a top-tier PMC speaker array, and private booths designed for songwriting, podcasting, and interviews. This setup allows artists to engage in a variety of activities all within one location.
Conversely, Spotify’s Sycamore Studios is crafted with a strong emphasis on video content, reflecting the growing trend of video podcasts. This facility is intended to serve as a home base for select creators, including talent from The Ringer, which Spotify acquired in 2020. With in-house production support, Spotify is steering clear of traditional rental studio models, instead opting for a more integrated approach to content creation.
Apple’s facility offers a range of services, allowing artists to record interviews, perform live sets on a dedicated soundstage, mix tracks in Spatial Audio, and even capture photos and social media content—all within the cohesive Apple Music environment.
In essence, the unveiling of these two studios underscores a dual vision for the future of audio in Los Angeles. While Apple Music bets on immersive music experiences, Spotify’s focus on video shows a clear inclination towards the increasing importance of visual content in the entertainment industry.
