In the heart of South Pekin, IL, a small studio with a big dream became a cradle for some of the Midwest's most beloved musical talents. The Golden Voice Recording Co., founded by Mary Ann and Jerry Milam, wasn’t just a studio; it was a beacon for artists seeking a space to create, innovate, and share their music with the world. The Milams’ vision and dedication transformed their humble recording studio into a launching pad for artists whose music would resonate far beyond the borders of Illinois.

Golden Voice Recording Co. began its journey in the early 1960s, born out of Jerry Milam's deep passion for music and sound engineering. With a background in electronics and an ear for quality sound, Jerry, alongside his wife Mary Ann, set out to create a state-of-the-art recording studio in South Pekin, Illinois. Their vision was ambitious: to build a facility that could rival the best studios in the country, right in the heart of the Midwest. Starting with modest equipment and a dedication to excellence, the Milams transformed a small, unassuming space into a cutting-edge studio that attracted both local talent and artists from across the nation. Golden Voice quickly earned a reputation for its superior sound quality and the welcoming, creative atmosphere that Mary Ann and Jerry fostered, laying the foundation for its pivotal role in the music industry.

Among the many artists who passed through Golden Voice, Dan Fogelberg's story stands out. Fogelberg, a Peoria native, found in Golden Voice the perfect environment to hone his sound. The studio's nurturing atmosphere and the Milams' keen understanding of music allowed Fogelberg to craft songs that would go on to define his career and leave a lasting impact on the world of folk-rock. It was in this unassuming space that Fogelberg's distinctive voice and songwriting talent began to flourish, setting him on a path to becoming one of the most cherished musicians of his generation. Most notably, his breakthrough album "Souvenirs" was tracked in large part at Golden Voice (with additional production by The Eagles' Joe Walsh and a star-studded cast of guest musicians).

Mary Ann Milam, in discussing Fogelberg and his time at Golden Voice said:
"Souvenirs went Double Platinum and several of the songs from that album were on Dan’s “Greatest Hits “ album that went Triple Platinum. As I mentioned, “Leader of The Band” was not cut at Golden voice, but his dad Larry brought the High school band to Golden Voice and they cut an album. His father was recognized with the bench located in the Mineral Springs Park."

Golden Voice also played a pivotal role in the early career of Gary Richrath, the legendary guitarist of REO Speedwagon. Richrath’s time at Golden Voice - dating back to his days with Suburban 9 to 5 - was instrumental in shaping the powerful, melodic sound that would become synonymous with REO Speedwagon. The Milams’ commitment to providing a creative haven for musicians allowed Richrath and his bandmates to experiment and refine their music, ultimately contributing to their rise as one of the defining rock bands of the era. “Everybody played with Gary because Gary loved to play,”

The band Head East, another group of local legends, also found their footing at Golden Voice. Their debut album, Flat as a Pancake, recorded at the Milams’ studio, became a surprise hit, catapulting the band to national fame. The success of that album is a testament to the supportive, innovative environment that Mary Ann and Jerry fostered at Golden Voice. It was a place where musicians could take risks, explore new sounds, and push the boundaries of their creativity. And on more than one occasion the result was some of the most recognizable sounds in rock history. Founding member Mike Somerville passed in 2020.

Other notable artists who recorded at Golden Voice include Jonathan Cain of Journey, Styx and Nashville Cats Hall of Fame member - and legendary Nashville session guitarist, Steve Gibson.

The impact of Golden Voice Recording Co. extends far beyond the records that were made there. It represents a time when the Midwest was a hotbed of musical innovation, and when a small studio in South Pekin could produce sounds that would echo not only regionally, but across the nation. Mary Ann and Jerry Milam’s unwavering support for local talent not only shaped the careers of many artists but also enriched the cultural landscape of the region.

Sadly, a fire (suspected as arson) leveled the studio in 1978, destroying many of the classic recordings housed there. But, the enduring story of the Milam's studio and the magic created there is preserved in a new display at the Peoria Riverfront Museum - a truly awesome and fitting tribute to a massive and diverse body of work that literally changed the face of modern music.

As we gather to celebrate the musical legacy of Pekin, IL, we do so with deep gratitude for the Milams and their Golden Voice Recording Co. Their dedication to nurturing talent and their passion for music have left an indelible mark on the history of American music. Pekin extends heartfelt thank you to Mary Ann and Jerry Milam for believing in the power of music and the people who make it.