The Capricorn Experience – Mercer Music at Capricorn

Capricorn Sound Studios

There’s only one studio in America where the sound of Southern Rock was not just recorded—but born.

In the 1970s, Macon's Capricorn Records and Capricorn Sound Studio became the creative epicenter of a movement, producing era-defining albums by the Allman Brothers Band, Marshall Tucker Band, Wet Willie and many more. Historic Studio A, with its warm, earthy sound, captured inspired performances by artists with deep regional influences from across the South. After a groundbreaking decade, though, Capricorn Records closed its doors in 1980 and the studio fell silent.

The Allman Brothers rehearsing in studio

For nearly four decades, its legendary acoustics, storied walls and unmistakable vibe waited for the next chapter, which finally arrived thanks to Mercer University. Reemerging in 2019 as the heart of Mercer Music at Capricorn, the fully restored Capricorn Sound Studios blends Studio A's vintage character with modern capability—offering artists the rare opportunity to create in a space where legends once stood. Since its revival, Capricorn has hosted artists including Blackberry Smoke, Marcus King, Brent Cobb, Eddie 9V and Jontavious Willis, all of whom have crafted albums steeped in the soul and signature sound of this landmark recording studio.

Mercer Music at Capricorn

Leveraging Macon's music heritage to create Macon's music future

Already nationally recognized for its Townsend School of Music, Mercer University undertook the Capricorn Sound Studios renovation project with partners NewTown Macon, Sierra Development and Southern Pine Plantations in 2015 to expand its investment in attracting talented, creative and entrepreneurial young people to Macon. Though the property had long been shuttered and even placed on the Georgia Trust for Historic Preservation's "Places in Peril," it was reborn in 2019 as Mercer Music at Capricorn. The opening coincided with the 50th anniversary of Mercer University alumnus Phil Walden founding the original Capricorn Records and Capricorn Sound Studio.

Mercer Music at Capricorn, a nearly 20,000-square-fooot complex, features:

Capricorn Sound Studios: Historic Studio A, where iconic albums Southern rock albums were recorded throughout the 70s, retains its vintage character with all modern amenities, including a 40-channel custom-built API 2448. The adjoining multi-purpose Studio B offers expanded room for recording choirs or large ensembles, and also serves as a classroom and venue for intimate performances. Additional mini-production suites are available for mixing, recording podcasts or songwriting.
Capricorn Museum: An immersive experience with artifacts, memorabilia and interactive listening stations, Capricorn Museum shares the fascinating story of Capricorn Records and Capricorn Sound Studios, while also examining their historical and cultural impact. Self-guided tours and group tours offered. In the lobby entrance, visitors enjoy a curated selection of exclusive Capricorn merchandise.
Capricorn Music Incubator: Twelve rehearsal rooms provide space for musicians to rehearse, write and collaborate. Rooms are rented at affordable rates by the day, month or year and are accessible 24/7.
Meeting Rooms, Offices and Co-working Space: Eight offices and three conference/seminar rooms, plus the impressive 1,400-square-foot Studio B, multi-purpose space complemented by an adjacent lounge and bar. Meetings, classes, seminars, panels, performances, celebrations and corporate gatherings can curate an experience in the distinct setting of Capricorn Sound Studios & Museum.
Education and Professional Development: In fall of 2026, Mercer University's Townsend School of Music will begin offering specialized undergraduate degrees in Music Production (B.M.) and Music Business (B.S.). Both programs will actively utilize the facilities at Mercer Music at Capricorn.