Jackson Studios Revisited

Jackson Studios is the birthplace of many iconic British sounds, and we want to bring it back to life here at Chiltern Open Air Museum!

The studio was used by Jack Jackson, known as the ‘Father of DJs’, who made television and radio programmes for the BBC in the 1950s. It was then used by iconic recording artists including Motorhead for the Ace of Spades, Elton John, Dr Feelgood, Eddie and the Hotrods, Ian Dury, Tom Robinson and many more.

Through the Jackson Studios Revisited campaign, Chiltern Open Air Museum is seeking to rebuild this unique piece of history. This is a long-term project and we now need to raise money for Phase III – seed funding for planning how to reconstruct the building and what it will offer the public. Imagine being the first band to record new sounds here!

Jackson Studios is a historic building dating back to 1745 and requires specialist input in its reconstruction: we need to progress this project now before the building elements deteriorate, and whilst many of the musicians are still around to capture their stories.

All we need now to get things started is your help to raise £7,000 to get the project started. You and your friends can be a part of Jackson Studios Revisited – by supporting us, buying benefits and even joining us for a VIP Pimms Jackson Studios Revisited celebration this summer. The more you contribute, the bigger a part you can play.

Some of the benefits, such as the glass bottles and tickets to the VIP celebration, have limited availability so don’t delay! Also, sponsorship opportunities are available so do get in touch if you would like to be involved.

Did you know?

• Many iconic names in music industry recorded here, including Elton John, Motorhead, Ian Dury, Dr Feelgood, Eddie and the Hotrods, Tom Robinson and the New Seekers.
• The Jackson Studios building from Maple Cross dates back to 1745.
• The building was used as a recording studio by Jack Jackson (1937-2000), ‘Father of DJs’, and was famous for it’s ‘dead sound’. Jackson made radio programmes for BBC radio and TV up until 1963.
• Michael Winner also made two films here in the early 50s.