In an industry where studios pop up and fade away like trending sounds on TikTok, LC Studio stands as a reminder that passion, persistence, and a love for community can make a legacy. What started as a dream to survive and support a family using music know-how has grown into one of Sta. Maria’s most respected grassroots music studios.

How It All Started
Behind the initials “LC” are Lui and Cathy—names not just etched in the brand but in every mic check, every jam session, and every community event LC Studio has powered through.

“Nabuo ang LCstudio sa pagkagusto kong maisurvive ang binuo kong pamilya sa paraan ng kaalaman ko sa Music Industry,” says founder Lui. But survival turned into purpose with the help of close friends who believed in him—Russel Fadrigore, best friend John Michael “KUMAGCOW” Bueno, and Mama Watut Reynaldo “BALOT” M. Ignacio. With their financial support, LC Studio was reborn and rebooted from the ashes of earlier ventures.

Before LC Studio became the name locals recognize, it went through phases—LSJ (Likod Simbahan Jammers) in 2000 and later, KSJ (Ka Steve Jammers) in 2005. But even before the rebrands, back in 1995, it all started with band equipment pooled by high school classmates from St. Paul Bocaue.

Family, Friends, and Foundations
LC Studio isn’t just Lui’s passion project—it’s a community movement. One of the earliest collaborators was his cousin “Jtech” Pacifico Catipon Jr., who taught him about sound systems. Their garage jam space slowly turned into a haven for local musicians from schools like STI, ICI, Sacred Heart, Early Christian, Shekina, and more.

“Hanggang nakita ng ibang tumutugtog kung pwede daw makipractice. Kaya hayun, simula noon tumulong na rin kami sa mga walang mapagpractisan na mga banda,” he shares.

Music with a Mission
Long before the studio was a business, it was a mission. Lui, a percussion section leader from Banda85, had been teaching kids how to read notes and play in bands. Music became his tool to steer the youth away from vices and into discipline and opportunity.

“Ako tinuruan ako dati at alam kong nakatulong sa pagkatao ko kaya gusto kong ipamahagi din nalalaman ko. Dahil yan kay Maestro Marcel Anareta,” he says, crediting his mentor.

First Events, First Challenges
The early years of LC Studio weren’t without hurdles. The biggest one? Equipment and debt.

“Ang pinaka-challenge nyan yung kung paano mo makukumpleto ang mga band equipments at paano ka makakabayad sa pagkakautang mo,” he says. But faith, loyalty, and trust pushed them forward. Some of those early loans? Still unpaid—but out of friendship and gratitude, his supporters have long moved on.

The first official LC Studio project was a Thanksgiving Battle of the Bands event. It came after a motorcycle accident that nearly derailed Lui’s plans. That event wasn’t just about music—it was about awareness.

“Gusto ko kasi sabihin sa kanila kahalagahan ng helmet kapag nag momotor ka lang. Awareness ng huwag maging Oscar o kamote sa daan,” he says, laughing.

The prize? A bottle of long neck gin. But the crowd? Massive. The passion? Unmatched.

Sleepless Nights, Priceless Memories
Some of LC Studio’s most unforgettable moments happened during events that ran through the night. One time, they featured 30 bands in one event. “Nakatulog kami sa stage para makapahinga konti ang mga team namin,” he recalls. It was exhausting, but it was also everything they stood for—community, hard work, and love for music.

From Humble Gears to Big-Time Stages
Lui proudly shares how even though they started small, some of their equipment has been used by known musicians. And now in 2025, after years of slow but steady upgrades, LC Studio can finally mount a full concert with their gear.

“Di na rin ako makapaniwala na marami-rami na pala akong naipundar na gamit,” he says. What used to be borrowed and pieced together is now a legitimate set-up ready for serious productions.

LC Feels and Bloopers
What makes LC Studio stand out isn’t just the service—it’s the vibe. On YouTube, you’ll find videos of their events where they playfully prank clients and guests with sudden music drops or sound effects while waiting for the program to start. “Sa kaboringan ng paghihintay, nagka-content ng mga pag gulat. Pinatutugtog namin ang ‘I Feel Good,’” he laughs.

Giving Back, Staying Real
LC Studio’s reputation wasn’t built on just pricing or tech—it was built on heart. They started by helping and sometimes still offer charity services to clients who are respectful and sincere. “Minsan, nag-sponsor pa kami,” he says. For Lui, it’s not always about profit—it’s about purpose.

What’s New and What’s Next
LC Studio now offers recording services for solo artists and full bands—possibly the most affordable in town, Lui proudly says. They continue to teach, guide, and provide a space for growth.

Looking ahead, the goal is simple: expand the circle. “Marami pa ring makahalubilo na mga tao para sa karagdagang connections at mga tunay na naniniwala sa kakayahan namin,” he says.

One exciting partnership is with Cre8 Music and Cre8 TV, led by Bokalistang Pakalat Kalat (Benedict of ForSomeReason). This collaboration promises new productions, free jam sessions, and the annual Dec 30 year-end Thanksgiving gig that’s become tradition.

The Secret to Standing Out
With so many creative studios out there, how does LC Studio stay relevant?

“Same good quality service at madali at totoo tayong kausap,” Lui says without hesitation. Authenticity, reliability, and heart have always been their brand.

Advice to Aspiring Creatives
For those dreaming of entering the creative or music industry, Lui offers simple but powerful advice:

“Maging masaya ka sa papasukin mong larangan. Isipin lagi na maging totoo, makatulong, at positive lang lagi para maging productive. 💯 Pure happiness ang dapat maibigay mo sa client dahil yan ang purpose natin. Mahalin mo lang trabaho mo.”

And just like that, LC Studio isn’t just a name—it’s a feeling. A culture. A rhythm that started in Sta. Maria and now echoes louder than ever.