Converse Offers Local Musicians Free Studio Time At Boston Headquarters

BOSTON (CBS) - Chuck Taylors have been immortalized in plenty of songs. And now Boston-based Converse is taking an even bigger step into the music business with its own recording studio.

It's called Rubber Tracks and it's located right in the Boston Headquarters on Lovejoy Wharf. It's a state-of-the-art studio offering up session to local musicians and it's all completely free.

"It's almost too good to be true," says Ally Juleen of the Boston band Bat House. "Our first release we recorded in our basement, so this is a big step up for us."

"They were so hospitable, and nice, and friendly and they just helped us out so much," adds bandmate Emmett Hayes.

Converse not only offers the space for an entire day but also the instruments, equipment, and an engineer to make the mix sound perfect. No strings attached.

"There is no catch," confirms Ian Stewart, Converse V.P. of Marketing. Converse is a brand that has been worn by musicians for decades and the company says this is its way of giving back to the community.

"Musicians have been the beating heart of us for many many years. So, being able to help them and support them and, as we say, be useful to them is a logical next step," explains Stewart.

Hundreds of bands, like Bat House, have now taken advantage of Rubber Tracks since it opened in Boston last summer. A second permanent studio is up and running in Brooklyn, New York.

"Being able to be in a studio like this usually once-in-a-life time chance, unless you make it as a band," says Juleen.

To get in, musicians just have to fill out a simple online form. All music styles are welcome. Yes, demand is high but Converse encourages musicians in Boston and beyond to apply. "They are supporting the music scene in an unimaginable ways," says Hayes.

And if the free recording studio isn't enough, Converse also kicks in a free pair of Chuck Taylors for all the musicians.