About AMI Recording Studio
A Legacy of Excellence in Raleigh, NC
Artist Mill International was founded in 2014 by co-owners Michael and David. Michael heads AMI’s operations as studio manager. The studio originally set out to support Rap and R&B artists in the research triangle, but quickly became a place for all musicians of any genre to flourish. With Mike’s background and education at Living Arts College, our studio grew in its ability to take on projects in multimedia spaces such as film and audiobook production. Through the creation of AMI studios, Mike and Dave have brought their passion for music to life.
At AMI Studios, we go beyond the traditional studio experience by empowering artists not only to record and create but also to gain invaluable insights into the industry they seek to navigate. By combining our passion for audio production with a strategic mindset, our team works to support artists in producing captivating sounds that help them reflect their creative vision. AMI is proud to provide a platform for sound engineers and artists in North Carolina to showcase their talents and create the best audio products in Raleigh. You’ll find it easy to reach us at our North Raleigh location, located at 5205 Oak Park Rd STE A, Raleigh, NC. To see our availability or book your next studio session, click the link below.
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Artist Mill International Recording Studio (AMI Studios) is a Raleigh-based recording studio rooted in authenticity, inclusivity, and excellence. We specialize in urban music, including Hip-Hop, R&B, Jazz, and Gospel, serving artists worldwide with pristine sound quality, immersive environments, and visually inspiring spaces. Our award-winning engineers and hybrid analog/digital setups empower every client-from grassroots creators to corporate entities-to craft emotionally charged music with professional precision. Beyond the studio, we mentor emerging artists and producers, offering guidance and promotive opportunities to elevate careers. Here, creativity thrives, and every voice is amplified.
Our Team
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Michael "Supr Badd" Reives, is a true child of music hailing from Sanford, NC. Inspired by his mother's captivating singing and his father's musical talent, Mike's upbringing fostered a deep connection with the world of melodies and harmonies. As our studio owner and manager, Mike believes that our core assets lie in our yearning for love, acceptance, and the realization of our presence. Mike believes that music is the ultimate tool for distributing emotions. With this belief and core value, we strive to help artists use their gifts and talents to create music or multimedia projects that will lead the world into a place of greater peace and acceptance. Credits Include: Megan Thee Stallion, Chance the Rapper, KRS-One, Birdman, Discovery Channel, SAS, Cisco, UMG, Motown, and Sony ATV.
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David "DJ XL" Actkinson, known professionally as "The Incredible DJ XL", is a versatile entrepreneur and entertainer based in Clayton, North Carolina. As co-founder of Artist Mill International and the founder of XL Live Entertainment, he provides dynamic DJ services for weddings, corporate events, and parties across the Eastern US region, renowned for his energetic mixes and crowd engagement. Parallel to his entertainment career, David is the driving force behind IT Fit Body, a fitness company promoting health and wellness through personalized training and nutrition. Balancing beats with fitness, DJ XL embodies a dual passion for energizing communities — both on the dance floor and in the gym.
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Akia is our multi-talented head audio engineer, music producer, and songwriter. Originally from Georgia, Akia made Raleigh, North Carolina her home in 2009 to attend the Living Arts College program for audio production and engineering. After graduating in 2012, first in her class, she set off to build her skill set and support local artists in the research triangle. Akia has been with us since our inception in 2018, and we are so proud to have her skills and talents at Artist Mill International. Akia has worked on multiple audiobook and podcasting projects. She is also one of the founding members of the ADHD Music Production Foundation and 7887 Multimedia. Credits Include: Supr Badd Music, Crunchyroll, Trap Boy Fredy, and Toot StLouis.
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After completing his internship under Mike and Akia, Dre joined the Artist Mill International team in late 2020. ReTro_drE is an Audio Engineer, Music Producer, Videographer, Video Editor, Podcast Producer, and Graphic Designer. With his unique skillset, our team can support multimedia projects and more.
