Fire Destroys Canadian Studio Where Rush, Bowie and Others Recorded

Back in the day–which is to say the late 70s and early 80s–Le Studio in Morin Heights, Quebec, attracted A-listers from around the world. And you’ve seen inside the place. Remember Rush’s “Tom Sawyer” video?

David Bowie, The Police, Keith Richards, the Bee Gees, April Wine, Bryan Adams, Barenaked Ladies and dozens of others made the trip where they made some legendary records.

But thanks to the decline in record label recording budgets, Le Studio was out of business by 2008 and fell into such disrepair that it was almost auctioned off to tax arrears to the tune of $18,000 a couple of years ago. The owner eventually paid off the debt, but no moves were made to bring the studio back online. Frankly, though, the place was too far gone.

As much as fans of Le Studio wanted it to be restored to its former glory–there was a crowdfunding campaign–it’s never going to happen now. A fire has destroyed the building.

The blaze broke out this early this morning (August 11). And I know what you’re thinking. Arson? Could be. Investigators are suspicious and are looking into it.

Don’t be sad. The place has been put out of its misery.