The market for audio recordings of books and other narratives has attracted many companies to venture into producing audio books. Through the years, many publishing houses have branched out to audio recording as another medium for their material. There are, however, a few independent audio book publishers who have secured the rights to record a wide variety of books to be packaged under their label. The largest among these companies is Blackstone Audio, Inc.
Founded in 1987 by Craig and Michelle Black, Blackstone Audio, Inc. has since produced over 4,500 unabridged audio recordings of books, plays and other narratives. Their collection covers every genre from adventure to non-fiction to young adult novels, with 30 new titles being released every month. Their impressive roster of narrators includes actor Bronson Pinchot, as well as award-winning narrators Simon Vance, Stephan Rudnicki, and Grover Gardner. Blackstone Audio’s recordings have been recognized by several award giving bodies in both the recording and publishing industries.
The company is headquartered in a 4,000-square-foot lot which houses two buildings where their offices, warehouse and five out of six of their recording studios are located. The audio books they produce are available in CD format at a number of bookstores and music outlets. Digital versions can also be downloaded through a special iPhone/iPad or Android app or through their new e-commerce portal downpour.com.