In Aubervilliers, Combo Studio, the “Swiss army knife” of hip-hop culture

From the outside, there's no indication of what's happening behind the large black gate at 59 ter, rue Heurtault, in Aubervilliers (Seine-Saint-Denis). Rachid (he didn't want to give his name), the mechanic who has installed a barrel of gasoline at the entrance to his auto parts store, is amused by the small crowds that sometimes gather there: "They're often young people. They borrow my barrel to shoot their music videos." Behind the gate is one of the most comprehensive hip-hop studios in Greater Paris, Combo Studio.

Here, artists can record their music, but also photograph album art or promotional shots, shoot a music video, edit it, and color grade it. They also have access to larger spaces for hosting parties on the day of the album release, or smaller spaces for a live stream with their fans, or participate in one of the many podcasts recorded in this 360-degree creative space. The specialized program is broadcast on YouTube "CKO" has taken up residence there and has already brought in the biggest names in French rap, from Booba to Lacrim and Youssoupha.

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