Bee Jay Recording Studio

Based in Winter Park, Florida, Bee Jay Recording Studios became the first 8-track studio in the state in 1967, beating out Criteria Studios in Miami. Studio principal Eric Schabacker created the Tener, Hype Records (7), Bee Jay Records (2), and immunity labels to release the studio's own productions as well as custom jobs. Many local garage bands (The Barons, The Soul Tenders, Rockin' Roadrunners, Flower Power, Little Willie and The Adolescents, Ron and The Starfires) cut there, as did country artists and gospel outfits (The Trumpets of Faith, Sister Richards & Brother Broxton). The Bee Jay Booking Agency was created to accommodate personal appearances of the many acts that used the studio's services. Initially the studio was located on Alden Road, but in late 1969 a new studio and offices were found at 2500 Silver Star Road. In later years, the likes of Gladys Knight, Cameo, and Michael Jackson would record there.