Downbeat Studio & Design is owned and operated by James Beesley III. Initially founded as a recording studio in a suburb of Detroit, MI, Downbeat was conceived by Michael Govaere. In early 2009, after spending several years as touring musicians, Mike and James relocated the studio to Chicago, where they have spent the past 15 years refining its design. Mike has since moved on to start LV-42MIX in Brooklyn, while James continues to operate Downbeat as a private recording studio, equipment design, and repair facility in Chicago.

For more than two decades, James has been an active musician and audio engineer. He pursued studies at Columbia College Chicago and now divides his time between managing Downbeat and heading global support teams at Adyen & PayPal.

James and his partner Stefanie are proud parents and creators, both dedicated to expanding their involvement in the arts while managing thriving small businesses.