Mercer University breathes life back into Capricorn Studios

MACON, Georgia (41NBC/WMGT) – Capricorn Studios in Macon is getting a makeover. This is in addition to downtown’s largest residential development. Mercer University plans to upgrade the studio while still preserving its history.

“We all know the rich music history Macon has. Otis Redding, Little Richard, the Allman Brothers,” said musician Chuck Leavell.

Leavell was one of the dozens of people who attended Thursday’s announcement at Capricorn Studios on Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd.

“I walked in this room about 45 minutes ago and it was like wow, I’m back. It looks exactly the same,” explained Leavell.

Leavell owes his success to Capricorn Studios.

“We recorded Gregg Allman’s first solo record called Laid Back. We recorded the Brothers and Sisters album that because number one on the Billboard charts by the Allman Brothers Band. I recorded my band, Sea Level, in this room,” recalled Leavell.

However, recent years haven’t been so upbeat in Macon.

“It was just like the buildings themselves were sad. They were crying out for help,” said Leavell.

Mercer University heard their call.

“The recording studio will be put back in service,” said Mercer University President Bill Underwood.

The hope is to help aspiring musicians again.

“The first floor will be converted into performance, a very unique performance venue. The top floor will be rehearsal rooms,” explained Underwood.

The updated studio will also honor the greats that came before the renovation.

“This is an important historic structure and we want to preserve the historic qualities of the building while making it a suitable building for modern music,” said Underwood.

Developers want to create a space to inspire future artists.

“That’s what music is all about. It’s about being in a room together with other musicians and having musical conversations and making music together,” said Leavell.

Mercer University is still trying to raise $1 million for the project. Underwood didn’t have a specific deadline for completion. He expects Capricorn Studios’ renovation to be a multi-million dollar upgrade.