The Smart Studios Story poster
DOCUMENTARY . 2016 . 1h 21m . 8.0/10

The Smart Studios Story_

The post-70’s explosion of independent music in America has many traceable roots, each with a compelling story. One of its most significant has never been told until now. Drawing on never-before-seen archival footage, in-depth-interviews with musicians and producers, and a mighty soundtrack, THE SMART STUDIOS STORY reveals the pivotal Midwest link to the global rise of 1990's Alternative Rock and the unassuming Madison, Wisconsin recording studio at its center. If you’ve ever been touched by the music of Nirvana, Smashing Pumpkins, Garbage, L7 or their peers, you’ve been touched by the music created at Smart Studios, the legendary recording facility founded by Butch Vig and Steve Marker.

Starring Dave Grohl, Billy Corgan, Shirley Manson
8.0/10
Rating
1h 21m
Runtime
2016
Year
Updated Feb 16, 2026
The Smart Studios Story poster

The post-70’s explosion of independent music in America has many traceable roots, each with a compelling story. One of its most significant has never been told until now. Drawing on never-before-seen archival footage, in-depth-interviews with musicians and producers, and a mighty soundtrack, THE SMART STUDIOS STORY reveals the pivotal Midwest link to the global rise of 1990's Alternative Rock and the unassuming Madison, Wisconsin recording studio at its center. If you’ve ever been touched by the music of Nirvana, Smashing Pumpkins, Garbage, L7 or their peers, you’ve been touched by the music created at Smart Studios, the legendary recording facility founded by Butch Vig and Steve Marker.

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Year context
The Smart Studios Story was released 10 years ago in 2016.
Overview
The post-70’s explosion of independent music in America has many traceable roots, each with a compelling story. One of its most significant has never been to...
The Smart Studios Story is a Documentary film with a runtime of 1h 21m.

CAST (4)

Dave Grohl
Dave Grohl
Billy Corgan
Billy Corgan
Shirley Manson
Shirley Manson
Butch Vig
Butch Vig

DETAILS

Release
Status
Released
Runtime
81 min (1h 21m)
Rating
8.0/10 (4 votes)

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is The Smart Studios Story about?
The post-70’s explosion of independent music in America has many traceable roots, each with a compelling story. One of its most significant has never been told until now. Drawing on never-before-seen archival footage, in-depth-interviews with musicians and producers, and a mighty soundtrack, THE SMART STUDIOS STORY reveals the pivotal Midwest link to the global rise of 1990's Alternative Rock and the unassuming Madison, Wisconsin recording studio at its center. If you’ve ever been touched by the music of Nirvana, Smashing Pumpkins, Garbage, L7 or their peers, you’ve been touched by the music created at Smart Studios, the legendary recording facility founded by Butch Vig and Steve Marker.
How long is The Smart Studios Story?
The Smart Studios Story has a runtime of 81 minutes (1h 21m).
Who stars in The Smart Studios Story?
The cast of The Smart Studios Story includes Dave Grohl, Billy Corgan, Shirley Manson, Butch Vig.
What is the rating of The Smart Studios Story?
The Smart Studios Story has a rating of 8.0 out of 10 based on 4 votes on TMDB.

GENRES (1)

Documentary
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