Key Details

Overview

8 Vine Yard is a mixed-use building in Borough, London SE1.

A red-brick industrial building dates back to the early 20th century, with origins believed to date back to the First World War era.

The building is located in a quiet courtyard off Sanctuary Street in Borough. A discreet entrance is located in a courtyard to its rear.

The building is historically significant, having been the recording site for renowned artists such as Kylie Minogue, Jason Donovan, Sinitta, Steps, and Rick Astley.

Between 1984-1991, Stock, Aitken, and Waterman (SAW) were leading figures in pop music, launching careers of artists like Mel & Kim, Steps, Sinitta, Rick Astley, Sonia, Jason Donovan, and Kylie Minogue. They also collaborated with Bananarama, Dead or Alive, Debbie Harry, and Donna Summer. Their first No. 1 hit was Dead Or Alive’s "You Spin Me Round" in 1985. They shifted to Vine Yard in central London, where Pete Waterman set up a 24-track recording studio.

The building, with walls thick enough for soundproofing, housed Waterman's record label, PWL, established in 1987. This label became the hub for many pop stars, with a memorable event being the recording of Band Aid II. PWL, dubbed "The Sound of a Bright Young Britain," has sold over 500 million units globally. SAW produced iconic hits, including Rick Astley's "Never Gonna Give You Up" and Kylie Minogue's "I Should Be So Lucky." Kylie's success at PWL was followed by Jason Donovan, with their duet "Especially for You" selling over 1 million copies. In 1989, SAW had 7 No. 1 singles. By 1991, Aitken departed, and the remaining duo worked till 1994. Waterman then relocated his studio. In 1999, upon Kylie's request, SAW reunited for a remix.