Sam Smith records Comic Relief track on Burnley console

The single, a re-work of Smith’s “Lay Me Down” - which also features John Legend - was produced at Capitol Records studios using AMS Neve’s iconic 72 Channel 88RS console. The console also plays a starring role - alongside the artists - in the charity music video.

Sam Smith has had a remarkable rise to the top of the international charts, and Mark Crabtree, the firm’s founder, has had a similar experience in his own industry after launching AMS Neve from his Burnley home’s attic in 1975. His work developing world-beating audio-production equipment has seen him pick up two Oscars for digital sound from the Academy Awards in LA.

AMS Neve products are installed in major studios worldwide, including Abbey Road, Air Studios, Capitol Records, Skywalker Sound, Warner Bros. and Fox, and continue to produce award-winning music and motion picture film scores.

Despite its worldwide success, 62-year-old Mark keeps AMS Neve close to its roots, with the company remaining where the innovation began - Burnley.

Mark said: “Since starting AMS Neve we have achieved a huge amount and are very proud of our pioneering achievements, and to still be located in Burnley.

“Burnley is a fantastic breeding ground for innovation – businesses have all the resources they need to become world-beating. There’s a multitude of opportunities new and established businesses can take advantage of.”

The track produced by the AMS Neve equipment is the official song for Red Nose Day 2015 and is available to download now.

Mark said: “We are thrilled to have had the opportunity to give more than just a donation to this year’s Comic Relief – having an input through our technology something we can be proud of at AMS Neve.”

The business is making a substantial donation to Red Nose Day.