Anyone who has spent time in Auburn is familiar with Wire Road, the winding country two-lane that leads people into – and out of – this college town. But for Auburn alumni Byron Kelley, ’70 civil engineering, and his son James, ’05 sociology, Wire Road represents a vision and an Auburn connection. In 2009, when the duo created their nationally acclaimed recording studio, it carried the name of the road much traveled by Byron, his wife Melva and James during their years as students at Auburn. Located in Houston, Wire Road Studios offers a complete array of music production services including recording, tracking, editing, mixing and mastering, and has become a recording and audio production destination for the likes of Lyle Lovett, Steve Tyrell, Ludacris, Busta Rhymes, Trey Songz and Pat Green.
The studio is a product of a joint passion for music and James’ dream of one day owning and operating his own music recording studio. Following a 40-year career as an engineer and executive in the energy industry, Byron retired in 2010. By this time, James had already begun operating a smaller scale music recording business, while serving as president and chief audio engineer. After Byron came on board to assist his son, they designed and constructed a world-class, 5,000-square-foot facility that features three recording studios, each offering unique production capabilities.
“Building this type of facility and business environment was James’ and my field of dreams,” said Byron. “And so far, the formula is working as we have quickly built a reputation and client base that far exceeds the boundaries of Houston.”
The company has added audio production to its menu of services, making it the only recording facility in Houston to offer both audio and music production, allowing the company to work with popular TV shows including “Breaking Bad,” “Nashville” and “Dallas.”
It is evident that the Kelleys have carried Wire Road with them into the music industry, and are quick to point out that they celebrate their Auburn connections. “We love Auburn, and you can see that throughout the studio,” said James. “I have even converted a few of our clients into Auburn fans including the group The Niceguys who recorded a song entitled ‘War Eagle’.”
