Discover Ocean Way Nashville Studio: A Historic Recording Haven on Music Row
Written and verified by the Rallyvite editorial team using publicly available data and the business’s official website. Last updated: 05 Dec 2025 02:56
TL;DR: Ocean Way Nashville Studio Jam Session is One of the Best Group Outing Venues near Nashville
Ocean Way Nashville Studio stands as a premier recording facility nestled in the heart of Nashville's famous Music Row. Established in 1996 by renowned studio owners Gary Belz and Allen Sides, this studio occupies a beautifully repurposed 100-year-old Gothic Revival grey stone church. Its distinctive architectural character creates not only an inspiring visual environment but also offers exceptional acoustical spaces finely tuned for music recording. The studio is especially celebrated for its versatility, welcoming a broad spectrum of clients ranging from pop, rock, and country artists to classical musicians, as well as scoring sessions for films and video games. Owned since 2001 by Belmont University, Ocean Way Nashville uniquely functions both as a commercial recording studio and an educational facility associated with the Mike Curb College of Entertainment and Music Business. This dual role allows aspiring audio engineers and students to gain hands-on experience alongside industry veterans. The studio's storied history, combined with its high technical standards and prestigious clientele, make it a highly sought-after location for musicians and producers aiming for top-tier sound quality and creative collaboration in a historic yet cutting-edge setting.
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What people think of Ocean Way Nashville Studio, based on reviews
As of recent, Ocean Way Nashville Studio holds a 4.9-star rating based on 143 reviews.
With an outstanding rating of 4.9 based on 143 reviews, Ocean Way Nashville Studio is widely revered for its world-class recording environment and exceptional client service. Many users praise the studio's unique ambiance—highlighting the beauty of recording inside a historic church building with excellent acoustics. Reviewers often commend the professionalism and friendliness of the staff, noting how their expertise enhances the overall recording experience. Additionally, the blend of advanced recording technology with an inspiring setting is frequently mentioned as a key factor contributing to successful, creative projects. Positive feedback also points to the studio's robust connection with Belmont University, offering a rare educational opportunity for students to work amidst top-tier industry professionals, further enriching the atmosphere.
On the other hand, few negative reviews mention occasional scheduling challenges, which might be expected given the high demand for the studio's facilities. Some users have also observed that the historic nature of the building, while beautiful, occasionally requires adjustments to accommodate modern equipment logistics or specific session needs. However, these remarks are minor compared to the overwhelmingly favorable consensus.
Overall, the reviews underscore Ocean Way Nashville’s reputation as a prestigious, artist-friendly studio that marries historic charm with cutting-edge recording capabilities. Its status as both a celebrated commercial studio and an educational hub helps maintain a dynamic environment where creative excellence thrives.
How to reach Ocean Way Nashville Studio
1200 17th Ave S, Nashville, TN 37212, USA
FAQ about Ocean Way Nashville Studio, your new favorite meetup place for groups in Nashville, Tennessee
Nestled in the heart of Nashville’s famed Music Row, this iconic studio is housed in a beautifully restored 100-year-old Gothic revival church, offering a unique blend of architectural grandeur and modern amenities. The sanctuary, now transformed into Studio A, boasts soaring 30-foot ceilings, stunning stained glass windows, and acoustics that have attracted legendary musicians and producers from around the world. Beyond its musical legacy, Ocean Way Nashville Studio is designed to be a welcoming and versatile space for friends and families looking to celebrate, collaborate, or simply enjoy each other’s company in a setting that feels both intimate and extraordinary. Whether you’re planning a birthday, a reunion, or a creative retreat, the studio’s spacious lounges, full kitchen, billiards table, and entertainment center ensure that everyone in your group will find something to enjoy. The private bathrooms and catered event options add a touch of convenience and comfort, making it easy to relax and focus on making memories. With its rich history, state-of-the-art facilities, and friendly staff, Ocean Way Nashville Studio is more than just a recording studio—it’s a destination that promises a truly special experience for any group.
Ocean Way Nashville Studio stands out as a group gathering spot because of its one-of-a-kind atmosphere and thoughtful amenities. The main room, once the church sanctuary, is a breathtaking space with vaulted ceilings, stained glass windows, and a sense of grandeur that instantly sets the mood for celebration. The studio’s design pays homage to its musical roots while providing modern comforts, such as a full kitchen, a large dining table, and a billiards table, making it easy to host meals, games, and relaxed conversations. The lounge area, located just below the control room, is equipped with a large couch, entertainment center, and private bathrooms, ensuring that your group has everything needed for a comfortable and enjoyable stay. The studio’s staff is known for their artist-friendly attitude and attention to detail, ready to assist with any special requests or arrangements to make your event run smoothly. Whether you’re planning a formal dinner, a casual hangout, or a creative workshop, the combination of history, beauty, and functionality at Ocean Way Nashville Studio creates a memorable backdrop for any group activity.
Ocean Way Nashville Studio offers a wide range of activities that cater to diverse interests and group dynamics. The billiards table is a popular choice for friendly competition, while the large lounge area provides plenty of space for board games, card games, or simply lounging and chatting. The full kitchen and dining table make it easy to prepare and share meals, whether you’re hosting a catered event or cooking together as a group. The entertainment center, complete with a TV and sound system, is perfect for movie nights, karaoke sessions, or showcasing your favorite music videos. For those interested in music, the studio’s rich history and state-of-the-art equipment offer a unique opportunity to explore sound and creativity, even if you’re not a professional musician. The spacious live room and iso booths can be used for impromptu jam sessions, group performances, or recording special moments to remember. With so many options for entertainment and relaxation, Ocean Way Nashville Studio ensures that every member of your group will find something to enjoy, making it an ideal spot for a fun and engaging meetup.
The history of Ocean Way Nashville Studio adds a layer of depth and inspiration to any group gathering. Originally built as a church in the 1800s, the building has been carefully preserved and transformed into a world-class recording studio, blending the old with the new in a way that feels both authentic and modern. The stained glass windows, vaulted ceilings, and architectural details tell a story of the past, creating a sense of connection to the generations who have gathered in this space. The studio’s legacy as a hub for musical innovation and creativity is evident in every corner, from the custom Neve 8078 console to the extensive collection of vintage and new outboard gear. This rich history provides a backdrop for meaningful conversations, shared stories, and a sense of wonder that enhances the group experience. Whether you’re a music lover or simply appreciate the beauty of historic architecture, the studio’s past adds a unique dimension to your time together, making your meetup not just a social event, but a journey through time and culture.
Ocean Way Nashville Studio is equipped with a range of amenities that make it exceptionally well-suited for large groups. The spacious live room, measuring 38 feet by 50 feet with 30-foot ceilings, can comfortably accommodate up to 80 people, making it ideal for big gatherings, parties, or collaborative projects. The lounge area, with its full kitchen, dining table, and large couch, provides a central hub for meals, relaxation, and socializing, while the private bathrooms ensure convenience and privacy for everyone. The billiards table and entertainment center offer additional options for group activities, keeping everyone engaged and entertained. The studio’s staff is experienced in handling large events and can assist with catering, setup, and any special requests to ensure that your group’s needs are met. With its combination of space, comfort, and flexibility, Ocean Way Nashville Studio is the perfect venue for any group that wants to celebrate, collaborate, or simply enjoy each other’s company in a setting that feels both grand and welcoming.
Customizing your group event at Ocean Way Nashville Studio is easy and flexible, thanks to the studio’s versatile spaces and attentive staff. Whether you’re planning a formal dinner, a creative workshop, or a casual hangout, the studio can be tailored to suit your specific needs and preferences. The lounge area can be set up for meals, meetings, or relaxation, while the live room and iso booths offer opportunities for performances, recordings, or group activities. The full kitchen and dining table make it simple to host catered events or cook together as a group, and the entertainment center can be used for movie nights, karaoke, or music sessions. The studio’s staff is happy to assist with any special arrangements, from setting up decorations to providing additional equipment or supplies. With its combination of space, amenities, and flexibility, Ocean Way Nashville Studio allows you to create a truly personalized experience that reflects the unique interests and dynamics of your group, ensuring that your event is memorable and enjoyable for everyone involved.