Tucked away just off South Congress, behind Music Lane and Hotel St. Cecilia, you’ll find a piece of Austin music history that many locals aren’t even aware of!
For more than 40 years, this legendary recording studio has quietly helped create some of the biggest albums in Texas music. Huge musicians have made music history here. We’re talking Willie Nelson, Paul Simon, Miranda Lambert, Gary Clark Jr. and more!
Arlyn Studios: A Hidden Austin Gem That Helps Shape Texas Music
Arlyn Studios opened in 1984, but the property’s musical roots go back even further. The building sits adjacent to the former Austin Opera House, a legendary live music venue that was opened by Willie Nelson during Austin’s outlaw country era. The venue hosted performances from iconic artists including Stevie Ray Vaughan, Etta James, R.E.M. and the Red Hot Chili Peppers before eventually closing.
Touring drummer Freddy Fletcher transformed the current space iinto a professional recording studio, with support from his Uncle Willie. Fletcher named the studio after his father, Arlyn “Bud” Fletcher who was ca respected fiddle player that helped launch the careers of both Willie and Bobbie Nelson.
Some of the Biggest Names in Music Have Recorded Here
One of the most impressive things about Arlyn Studios is its client list. Over the decades, the studio has welcomed artists including the following.
- Willie Nelson
- Gary Clark Jr.
- Miranda Lambert
- Sheryl Crow
- Lyle Lovett
- Midland
- Merle Haggard
- Frank Sinatra
- Robert Plant
- Paul Simon
- Sublime
- Los Lonely Boys
- David Crosby
- Wilco
The studio continues to attract both Texas legends and internationally known artists thanks to its combination of world-class equipment and unmistakable Austin vibe.
The Famous Recording Console
Music producers know Arlyn Studios for something incredibly rare: a custom-built NEVE/API hybrid recording console. Created by combining two highly sought-after vintage consoles, including equipment from Nelson’s former Pedernales Studio, the board has become one of the most unique recording setups in the country. Engineers and artists travel from around the world specifically to record through this one-of-a-kind system.
More Than Just a Recording Studio
Beyond recording albums, the space regularly hosts events. In fact, we were there recently for the launch of Stetson Bourbon. We’ve also been in attendance for SXSW and other music showcases, the re-launch of the Armadillo World Headquarters, a 25 years of Titos celebration and other exclusive events at the studio. It’s truly a unique space, as illustrated by this video.
Why Arlyn Studios Matters
The Arlyn Studios walls have witnessed decades of creativity, collaboration and unforgettable performances. From outlaw country pioneers to today’s chart-topping artists, Arlyn continues to prove that great music doesn’t just happen on stage. It all starts here.
Whether you’re a lifelong music fan or simply love discovering Austin’s hidden gems, Arlyn Studios is one of those places that reminds you why this city earned its title as the Live Music Capital of the World. If you ever see a listing for an event happening at Arlyn, you must simply say yes!
