After their 2018 No Filter Tour, the Rolling Stones were looking to invest in the creative futures of London’s young people. Recognising the community-focused nature of Canning Town’s Community Links’ work, a partnership was established.

The studio was opened by Rolling Stone Ronnie Wood in August 2021. He said:

“I remember the help I got as a youngster and it is only right that, through this great charity, the Stones are giving a hand to budding musicians in east London.”

Links Studios is a dedicated recording studio and media teaching room for young people up to the age of 24, youth organisations and schools in Newham and beyond.

They offer creative workshops as well as skills courses and formal study programmes – leading to qualifications in music technology and sound engineering.

Mayowa Babatunde, a Stage Ready Performing Arts student aged 13, performed a song she wrote at the music box workshop titled Fairytale. She was nervous about singing in front of the rock star but the experience turned out well.

“It’s rewarding being praised by someone that is so popular and known in the world. It just pushes me to try and reach that point again,” Mayowa said.

Working with her singing coach Bernice Jeffrey from Stage Ready Performing Arts has played a huge role in Mayowa’s growth in both singing and confidence.

Rachael Smith, policy and communications officer at Community Links, said: “Creative activities are invaluable when it comes to mental health, resilience and tackling serious social issues such as youth violence and criminality. Through its exceptional facilities, Links Studios will provide the springboard for this mission to be fulfilled.”

There are plans for the studio to develop greater access for older communities over the coming months.

Links Studios

105 Barking Road

Canning Town

London E16 4HQ

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Stage Ready Performing Arts

House of Mass Dance Studio

60 Dock Road

London E16 1YZ

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