In the summer of 1996, a small group of young music industry professionals recognized the need for an organization that would directly address the issues they faced on Music Row. After a year's worth of backyard brainstorming sessions, this original group of friends gradually and deliberately defined the parameters for the Society Of Leaders In Development (SOLID) Their vision? To develop a community for its membership that combined the social networking of the Slugs or the Young Turks with the community service of Hands on Nashville and the educational opportunities of Leadership Music, The Recording Academy or the CMA. Above all, it needed to be accessible to entry and mid-level industry professionals who may not have the resources or opportunities to belong to other organizations.
On February 15, 2000, SOLID hosted its 'Intro To The Row' Party in the lobby of the Country Music Hall of Fame. Chris Neese, co-founder and first SOLID President, gave an inspired speech to a crowd of industry executives, announcing the arrival of "Generation Next" to Music Row. This declaration was not a challenge to the establishment as much as an appeal to recognize and embrace the leaders of tomorrow. Support from the individuals present that day has affirmed the need for our Society and has subsequently confirmed that SOLID has a definite role in shaping the future of Music Row.
Today, SOLID has evolved into a collection of dynamic personalities representing all facets and levels of the music industry. SOLID continually faces the changing needs and expectations of each new class and repeatedly rises to each of these challenges. Our educational events continue to examine the critical issues facing our industry, earning critical acclaim for our willingness to honestly examine the challenges. Our outreach to universities has been recognized as a vital resource for students hoping to one day work in the music business, providing panels, lectures, shadow days and in depth introductions to the industry for interested students. Our commitment to providing opportunities for community service has helped us develop a reputation as an organization connected to the community where we live, volunteering to help with a number of causes including the Miller Harris Golf Tournament and Foundation. Our desire to encourage communication and social networking for our members is evident in our development of a content oriented website and the regular social events that help anchor our relationships.
Most recently, SOLID continues to develop its recognition as a training ground for industry leaders, establishing itself as a founding member of the Young Professionals Summit. The Summit is committed to creating an environment where new leaders in the Nashville’s business community can learn from one another. The Summit includes The SENNET Society, The Young Leaders Council, The Nashville Area Junior Chamber of Commerce, The Nashville Junior League and SOLID.
SOLID looks to the future, rooted firmly in the music industry and the community of Nashville. It is a dynamic organization, adapting to meet the changing needs of its membership, working tirelessly to fulfill its mission of helping others, teaching others, and leading others.
SOLID COMMITTEES
Each SOLID member is required to participate in one of fi ve committees for two years in order to build leadership skills to promote personal and professional growth. After two years they switch to Alumni status and serve as mentors for new members.
Communications
Communications Committee is responsible for the ongoing communications for SOLID both internally, between SOLID members, and externally, between SOLID and the community. is committee is designed to not only keep members informed of SOLID events but also to promote awareness to the general public and the press. Furthermore, the Communications Committee aims to ensure that all SOLID members are knowledgeable about SOLID’s past accomplishments and future endeavors.
Community Outreach
SOLID provides individuals with the opportunity to take on responsibilities and utilize their skills... helping others... teaching others... leading others.” Helping others is the foundation on which the Community Outreach Committee hinges. is committee is focused on continuing to build SOLID’s relationship with the Nashville community through a series of outreach events. We are continually looking for ways to give something back to Nashville and are open to fresh ideas/opportunities to do so.
Education
Education Committee works to create programs of interest to everyone involved in SOLID. The goal is to develop an overall knowledge of the music industry through panels and special events as well as educate ourselves about community issues currently facing our industry.
Social
SOLID Social Committee is designed to organize special events throughout the year for SOLID members, emphasizing the opportunities existing with the other SOLID committees: Education, University Outreach, Community Outreach and Communication. e Social Committee is charged with fi nding new and interesting ways to bring members together socially.
University Outreach
University Outreach Committee was established with the intent to be a liaison between universities nationwide and Nashville’s music community. roughout the year special SOLID programs are off ered to students such as internships, mentoring and a Job Shadow Day. is committee is readily available to organize and participate in panel discussions, career fairs, and other educational events to assist universities in educating the music industry’s
next generation of leaders.
