Manchester’s renowned recording studio, Astar Studios, is making headlines with an exciting new collaboration. Andy Ross, Mercury Prize–nominated producer and founder of Astar, has teamed up with Mykah, a platinum-certified beat maker with over a million Spotify streams.

This partnership merges two worlds:

• Andy Ross brings decades of professional production experience, from arranging to mixing across genres.
• Mykah injects fresh creativity, specializing in Afrobeat, house, jungle, and modern beat making that’s driving today’s streaming culture.

Why This Matters for Beat Makers

For artists looking to produce unique beats, this collaboration is a blueprint for success. With the resources of a top Manchester recording studio and Mykah’s streaming achievements, it shows how traditional studio craft and modern beat making can elevate your music.

Get Involved

If you’re an artist or beat maker looking to take your sound to the next level, this is your chance to connect.
📧 Email: andy@astarstudios.com
📞 Call: 0161 280 0908

Final Takeaway

The future of Afrobeat, house, and jungle is being shaped by producers who know how to balance timeless skills with modern trends. Andy Ross and Mykah’s link-up at Astar Studios is proof that the right collaboration can take your music further.

Andy Ross & Mykah Join Forces at Manchester’s Astar Studios
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The vibrant sounds of Afrobeats are taking over the global music scene, and one of the genre’s most exciting new voices is making waves in the UK. Gwaanty, the talented quarterfinalist from The Voice, has stepped into the legendary Astar Studios in Manchester to record his highly anticipated new single. With the powerhouse production duo of Mykah and Andy Ross behind the desk, this track is already shaping up to be something special.

Gwaanty’s Journey from The Voice to the Studio

Fans of The Voice will remember Gwaanty for his electrifying performances and unique stage presence. His journey to the quarterfinals showcased not only his vocal ability but also his charisma and flair for connecting with audiences. Since then, Gwaanty has been carving his own lane, bringing authentic Afrobeats vibes to UK music lovers.

Now, he’s leveling up his artistry by teaming up with Astar Studios Manchester, a hub known for its world-class facilities and history of nurturing both rising stars and established names.

Afrobeats Meets Manchester Magic

Afrobeats is more than just a genre—it’s a cultural movement. Known for its infectious rhythms, vibrant percussion, and uplifting energy, Afrobeats has become a global force, blending African roots with international influences. Gwaanty is set to channel this energy into his new single, infusing it with his signature sound and powerful voice.

At Astar Studios, Gwaanty joined forces with producers Mykah and Andy Ross, whose expertise spans multiple genres, giving them the perfect skill set to elevate his Afrobeats sound. The duo has been fine-tuning the single to capture that perfect balance of dancefloor energy and emotional depth.

Why This Collaboration Matters

This isn’t just another studio session—it’s a statement. With Afrobeats continuing to dominate charts worldwide, Gwaanty is positioning himself at the forefront of the UK scene. Recording at Astar Studios in Manchester solidifies his commitment to quality, while working with Mykah and Andy Ross ensures the music will resonate with both Afrobeats lovers and mainstream audiences.

For fans of Gwaanty, this upcoming release promises to be an Afrobeats anthem that bridges cultures and brings people together through rhythm and melody.

What’s Next for Gwaanty?

With the new single on the horizon, Gwaanty is set to make 2025 a breakthrough year. Whether you first discovered him on The Voice or you’re just now tuning into his journey, one thing is clear: Gwaanty’s blend of Afrobeats flair and raw talent is about to shake up the scene.

Stay tuned for the official release date and be ready to add this track to your playlists—the sound of Afrobeats in Manchester has never been this exciting.

Afrobeats Rising: The Voice Quarterfinalist Gwaanty Records His New Single at Astar Studios, Manchester
Iain

Manchester has long been a hub for world-class music, and now it’s welcoming a legend of Irish folk music. John Joe Kelly, widely regarded as one of the world’s finest bodhrán players, recently travelled from Ireland to his birthplace of Manchester to record at the award-winning Astar Studios, owned by Andy Ross.

Producer Andy Ross is one of the most versatile around and offers expertise in folk music production. Astar was the natural choice for Kelly. Its reputation for capturing the warmth and authenticity of traditional instruments makes it the perfect setting for a bodhrán player of his calibre.

Owner Andy Ross has worked with some of the biggest names in the industry, helping artists achieve a rich, organic sound that stays true to the essence of their craft. His ability to blend modern production techniques with traditional styles such as folk has made Astar the go-to for musicians.

John Joe Kelly is a Bodhrán Legend. As a long-standing member of Flook, John Joe Kelly has been redefining the role of the bodhrán in contemporary folk music. His unique playing style, characterized by rapid-fire rhythms and pitch modulation, has earned him worldwide acclaim. 

With Kelly choosing Manchester’s Astar Studios, the city can only strengthen its reputation as a folk music and overall powerhouse. This collaboration between an Irish folk legend and a top-tier Manchester recording studio/producer is set to produce a recording that captures the energy and soul of traditional Irish music with modern production excellence.

To book Astar Studios in Manchester fill in our easy to use contact form or use the contact information below:

andy@astarstudios.com

0161 280 0908

Irish Folk Comes to Astar: John Joe Kelly Brings Bodhrán Mastery to Manchester Recording Studios
Iain

Since Astar Studios opened 16 years ago, the Manchester recording studio has been lucky to host some of Manchester’s finest musicians. Astar owner Andy Ross is not only a Mercury Prize nominated Producer, but also an experienced performer who has toured and recorded with numerous Manchester music icons including ‘The Stone Roses’ legendary frontman Ian Brown, who inspired the 90s music era and is credited by Noel Gallagher as influencing the birth of Oasis.

In 2014 Andy was commissioned to co-produce a recording of The Style Council’s ‘The Paris Match’ by Manchester singer Kristyna Myles, with the band’s founder member and drummer Steve White, whose credits include Paul Weller, The Who, Ian Dury, Jon Lord and Oasis.

Steve was just 17 when he performed with The Style Council at Live Aid in 1985 and he was back playing with ‘The Who’ for Live 8 in 2005. His recent projects have included ‘The Family Silver’ and ‘Hague and White’. Click here to watch Steve’s testimonial to Astar Studios. Andy Ross said, “Working with Steve was an absolute pleasure. A one take wonder, who managed to self-create one of the best drum sounds I have ever heard.”

Manchester Bass Player Neil Fairclough is a regular friend of AstarStudios. Neil was working as a session player for Andy for many years before he got asked to join Queen and Adam Lambert. Neil has since travelled all over the world and continues to do so. Andy Ross said, “Working with Neil is such a creative process. Even though I may have existing ideas, I always like to give Neil the opportunity to give as much input as possible. The phrases he comes up with are truly special and he is a real perfectionist when it comes to the bass and drums locking in together which is vital to get a tight and solid foundation to a recording.” You can hear Neil’s testimonial to the studio here.

Manchester Rap Artist Geko was signed when he was just 13 years old and continues to release new music, amassing millions of followers listening to his music on YouTube. Andy Ross said, “Working with Geko was an interesting experience. He would literally walk into the live room and free style to a beat. His awesome talent was clear to see.

Co-founder of Joy Division and New Order, Peter Hook has also recorded at Astar Studios. Hooky often used the bass as a lead instrument, playing melodies on the high strings with a signature heavy chorus effect. In New Order, he would do this, leaving the actual basslines to keyboards or sequencers. Andy Ross described Hooky as “A great guy, generous musician and genuine person to be around.”

Visit Astar Studios testimonial page to hear from some of Europe’s finest musicians At Astar Studios we are always looking to work with the next great artist or band to come out of Manchester. You can call us on 0161 280 0908 or email andy@astarstudios.com.

Mad For It – Astar Studios in Manchester
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Astar Studios would like to pay tribute to Simon Goulding who was their resident bass player for the last 10 years. 

Simon passed away recently after suffering a long battle with Cancer. 

Andy Ross who owns Astar said “Simon is without doubt the greatest musician I have ever known. His ability to play in all styles of music and the creativity which he could bring to a project was second to none and I would place him up there with the worlds very greatest bass players.”

“I was blessed to work with him for a decade not only becoming great friends but creating great music. Simon will be missed by so many and is truly irreplaceable and I urge anyone wanting to pick up the bass to purchase all of Simon’s tutorials from www.simongoulding.com.”

“Simon was a great man and so humble and I don’t think he fully appreciated just what a special talent he was. My sympathies go out to his family.”

Here is some behind the scene footage of Simon playing a solo at Astar below.

[evp_embed_video url=”https://www.astarstudios.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/Simon.mp4″]

A Tribute to Simon Goulding
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