Just Work with Your Friends

I stopped by Rick Rubin's Shangri La Ranch (recording studio) in Malibu on my way home on Friday. I've been trying to reach them by the email on their website  (https://shangrilamalibu.com) to book time in the studio because I want to record a few spots for PANDEMONIUM there but wasn't getting a response. So, I thought I'd swing by out of curiosity and the off chance I could talk to someone.

I pass it on accident looking for the address. As I'm turning around I see glints of shiny aluminum through the shrubs and get excited because they have Bob Dylan's 1975 Rolling Thunder tour bus supposedly parked in the driveway. I pull up to a closed gate, video cameras pointing at me and some no trespassing signs. I look over to see Dylan's bus and it's just some construction material. I exhale and let my disappointment set in that I'm just looking at a regular ranch-style house and yard with some ugly security signage and styleless gate. I take about 3 seconds to look around then put the car in reverse. Before I begin to back up the gate opens. I can't believe it. Shit! What do I do? Go in, of course. I drive up the s-curved gravel driveway and park. A young dude walks out with a smile and asks me to park a little further over. I accommodate and roll my window down, "Hey Man, you guys aren't expecting me."

"I know," he says then introduces himself still smiling, "I'm Rob."

"Aaron. So, I have an entertainment site that I'm looking to record some things here for and I've emailed a few times but haven't heard back. Is there a way I could book time with you?"

"No, I'm sorry, Sir, I don't handle that stuff. You'll need to talk to the manager."

"Are they here?"

"No, I'm sorry."

"Can you give me their name or contact info?"

"No, I'm sorry, Sir. I can't give that out. Keep trying the website, though. That's the best way."

"Ok, thanks, Man." We give each other a nod and I drive off back down the driveway thinking they're never going to get back to me through that bleak website. Why would they? They don't have to take jobs from average joes. They can just work with their friends and shut everyone else out. And that is exactly what I want to do. I'm tired of putting up with the average joes in my life. I didn't get what I came here for, but I left inspired to be more exclusive.

The Band also recorded at Shangri La. My little experience rings with the lyrics of "The Weight," he just grinned and shook my hand and no was all he said.