Music and entrepreneurship both flourish, for Clay Sheff, from attention to detail.
As a successful producer, engineer, songwriter, multi-instrumentalist, and owner and founder of Smash Studios, he emphasizes quality for every nuance of the business and the art. That’s why Smash has remained the epicenter of recording and rehearsals in the Big Apple for everyone from Billy Joel to Harry Styles since first opening its doors in 1989, living up to its moniker of empowering artists to make smash hits.
“When I first started Smash, I did everything from the electrical work and the carpentry to engineering and producing records,” he affirms. “They say the best restaurateur is the one who knows everything about the restaurant. I approach Smash the same way. Today with my talented staff, I still run the studio in a professional manner, but we always maintain certain vibe so our customers can achieve their creative goals. It’s all about balancing the two sides.”
Attending Boston University, he studied at the prestigious School of Management and The School of Fine Arts where he studied music. After graduating he performed in a number of popular bands as lead vocalist, including the critically acclaimed band, Wonderland, Clay made his name in the industry as a committed musician and skilled vocalist.
At the age of twenty-five, while still singing in bands, he created Smash Studios at its first location at 132 West 22nd Street in Manhattan. Quickly becoming in-demand, the company expanded to include Gallery Recording Studios soon thereafter (on the floor above the original Smash), before moving to its current location at 307 West 36th Street in Manhattan, a stone’s throw from Madison Square Garden during 2001. Smash Studios is the still to this day the pre-eminent choice for all musicians nationwide that are in or around New York. Boasting 23 Studios including Stages, Showcase Studios, Rehearsal Studios, Recording Studios, Podcast and Video Production, Smash Studios and is legendary within the entertainment.
A “consummate entrepreneur,” he consistently forges new territory beyond music as well. Clay introduced North America to the international leader in wine dispenser and preservation systems, Enomatic and WineEmotion made in Italy and featured in restaurants, hotels, bars, and Airports around North America as well as DigiTap by Wircon from Denmark, the liquor management system used throughout Yankee Stadium. In addition, Clay has created a successful guide to New York, CitiSpots, and online teaching entity, The American Star Academy.
“My first goal is always to keep making Smash the best it can be. I also try to approach the studio and all of its respective endeavors from a musician’s perspective,” he leaves off. “I think about what I would want as a musician myself, and I aim to always deliver that concept. I listen to our clients, because I want them to have a productive experience at every moment they are here, with a productive vibe that’s upheld by the space, staff, equipment, and everything under our roof.”