Our History, Mission & Vison

When you step into our studio, you’re not just another client. You’re joining a place built by musicians, for musicians. A place where your ideas are respected, your sound is nurtured, and your music is brought to life in the most authentic way possible.

Camden Records began with two childhood friends and their love for music

The goal was simple: to create a space where artists feel at home, welcoming them into an environment that thrives on uniqueness and creativity. At the same time, we wanted to provide artists with the technical and professional support needed to sound exactly how they imagined, helping them create the best versions of their music.

We opened the doors to Camden Records in 2018 with a shared dedication to uplifting musicians from all genres and backgrounds. Our aim was to create a space where they could feel heard and understood. From the start, we’ve focused on building a sense of community and connection, drawing inspiration from the stylish and vibrant vibe of Camden Town. Initially based in the iconic Camden Square – once home to Amy Winehouse – we relocated in 2020, finding a perfect new space just a few minutes away in the neighbouring borough of Islington.

As musicians ourselves, we know first-hand what it’s like to be on the other side of the glass, searching for a studio that combines the warmth of a welcoming atmosphere with the expertise needed to achieve the sound you envision. That’s why we built Camden Records to be more than just a recording studio. It’s a place where you can take risks, explore your sound, and collaborate with people who truly understand what it means to be an artist.

The Founders

Camden Records’ founder and CEO, Rafa Bustamante, is a versatile rock singer who draws inspiration from classic pop artists of the ’60s, as well as the rebellious spirit of ’80s British heavy metal. His passion for art and music was sparked at a very early age, astonished by his grandfather painting on canvas and playing a variety of instruments. By the age of 16, Rafa had joined his first band as a guitarist, though his natural vocal talent eventually led him to take on the lead singer role. He went on to participate in various blues, hard rock, and metal projects, where he also became a proficient harmonica player, before shifting his focus to London’s iconic music scene.

Joining Rafa in this venture is Camden Records’ Operations Chief, Mario García, also known as Tenor Mario, a soulful reggae singer, producer, and sound engineer who has dedicated his life to music. Mario’s journey to Camden Records was driven by his admiration for London’s rich and diverse music scene, particularly its deep-rooted Jamaican influence. Like Rafa, Mario’s love for music started young. He founded Legalize Sound studios in Spain at just 18 years old, to later establish the reggae label Cool Up Records. With a long career working alongside artists from around the world, Mario’s extensive experience and natural talent for music production made him the perfect partner for Camden Records.

Mario and Rafa both felt drawn to the creative melting pot of Camden, where cultures and music genres mix, and talent flourishes. Impacted by the soul of their home country Spain, they wanted to bring together that passion into the already iconic London music heritage.

Both of their dreams were to make music, but also to create a sanctuary where artists could feel a community, somewhere they could relax and let their creativity flow, no matter the stage of their career. With that vision in mind and influenced by the vibrant spirit of Camden’s music scene, they built a studio that reflects the raw energy and authenticity they had admired from afar.