Meet Ric Ross | Ric Ross I Founder & Community Leader

We had the good fortune of connecting with Ric Ross and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Ric, how do you think about risk?
When considering risk, I don’t view it solely as taking chances but rather as making informed decisions that align with my values and goals. In my life and career, each decision I’ve made has been grounded in my comfort and confidence in its potential outcomes.

For instance, when I started the Music Education Group, some of my peers questioned my choice to work with at-risk youth given my successful career in the music industry. However, I saw this as an opportunity to contribute positively to my community and make a meaningful impact through music education. Despite the perceived risks, I was comfortable with this decision because it resonated with my personal mission and beliefs.

In general, I believe risk-taking should be balanced with thoughtful consideration and a clear understanding of potential consequences. When risks are calculated and align with our values and aspirations, they can often lead to transformative experiences and outcomes. This mindset has guided me in navigating both personal and professional challenges, ensuring that my choices reflect not only ambition but also a deep sense of purpose.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
The Music Education Group, Inc., which I founded twenty years ago, is a nonprofit organization dedicated to teaching life skills and fostering career development through music, film, and digital media. What truly sets us apart is my 37 years of experience in the music industry as a record company executive. This wealth of knowledge enables us to provide our youth with unique insights and opportunities, engaging industry professionals to mentor and guide them along their creative journeys.

I am particularly proud of the partnerships we have cultivated over the years, including collaborations with The Save the Music Foundation, Atlanta Public Schools, Fulton County Schools, and various city programs in Fairburn and Atlanta. These partnerships allow us to conduct impactful weekly projects both in and out of school, providing enriching experiences that go beyond traditional music education.

Our approach to teaching goes beyond musical skill development; we emphasize the business side of the industry and prioritize career development. This focus on preparing our youth for the professional world sets us apart from other music programs and ensures that our participants are equipped with practical skills and knowledge.

Getting to where we are today has been a journey of dedication, hard work, and strategic partnerships. Building this organization was far from easy—it required significant time, energy, and personal financial investment. However, through persistence and a steadfast focus on meeting the needs of our youth, we overcame challenges and continued to grow.

One of the key lessons I’ve learned along the way is the importance of staying true to our mission and never compromising on our values. It’s essential to maintain clarity and integrity in everything we do, especially when faced with obstacles or temptations that may divert us from our core objectives.

Another valuable lesson has been the power of perseverance and commitment. Despite challenges and setbacks, I have never wavered in my belief in the impact of our work. This unwavering commitment has been instrumental in sustaining and expanding our organization over the years.

In summary, The Music Education Group, Inc. stands out for its holistic approach to music education and career development, leveraging industry expertise and strategic partnerships to empower youth. Our journey has been marked by hard work, dedication, and valuable lessons that continue to guide our mission of supporting and inspiring the next generation of creative talents.

What I want the world to know about The Music Education Group is our unwavering commitment to empowering youth through music, film, and digital media. Our mission goes beyond teaching technical skills; we are dedicated to nurturing life skills and fostering career development among young people.

At The Music Education Group, we believe in the transformative power of creative education. Our programs not only cultivate artistic talents but also instill confidence, discipline, and a strong work ethic in our participants. We aim to prepare the next generation of industry professionals by providing them with real-world experiences and mentorship from seasoned professionals.

Our brand story is one of passion, perseverance, and community impact. Founded on the belief that every young person deserves access to quality arts education, we have worked tirelessly over the past two decades to build meaningful partnerships and create impactful programs that benefit youth across Atlanta and beyond.

Through The Music Education Group, we strive to bridge the gap between artistic passion and professional success. Our story is a testament to the importance of investing in youth, providing them with the tools and opportunities they need to thrive in the competitive world of music and media.

In essence, I want the world to know that The Music Education Group is more than just an organization; it is a catalyst for positive change in the lives of young artists. We are dedicated to nurturing creativity, building futures, and shaping the next generation of leaders in the entertainment industry.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
If I were planning a week-long itinerary to show my best friend the best of Atlanta, I would focus on a mix of iconic attractions and local gems that highlight the city’s diverse culture and history. Here’s a simple yet engaging plan:

Day 1: Arrival and Local Dinner

Welcome my friend with a homemade dinner at home or a cozy local restaurant to catch up and relax.

Day 2: Explore Downtown Atlanta

Morning: Visit The Martin Luther King Jr. Center and Freedom Park, gaining insight into civil rights history.
Afternoon: Lunch at a local spot near Centennial Olympic Park.
Evening: Experience the Georgia Aquarium and World of Coca-Cola, followed by dinner at a nearby restaurant.

Day 3: Art and Culture

Morning: Tour the High Museum of Art to admire renowned artworks.
Afternoon: Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a nearby café.
Evening: Attend a performance or show at a local theater or music venue.

Day 4: Nature and Wildlife

Morning: Spend the day at Zoo Atlanta, exploring diverse wildlife exhibits.
Afternoon: Picnic lunch in Grant Park or nearby green space.
Evening: Relax with dinner at a casual restaurant.

Day 5: Historic Neighborhoods

Morning: Explore historic neighborhoods like Virginia-Highland or Inman Park, visiting local shops and eateries.
Afternoon: Visit the National Center for Civil and Human Rights for a thought-provoking experience.
Evening: Dinner at a favorite local restaurant known for its southern cuisine.

Day 6: Day Trip to Surrounding Area

Take a day trip outside Atlanta to explore nearby attractions like Stone Mountain Park or Sweetwater Creek State Park.

Day 7: Relax and Departure

Enjoy a leisurely morning at home or visit a local café for breakfast.
Spend the afternoon relaxing or exploring any missed spots.
Farewell dinner at a special restaurant to conclude the trip.

Throughout the week, I would ensure a mix of cultural experiences, outdoor activities, and local dining to provide a well-rounded taste of Atlanta’s charm. Despite being simple and preferring familiar settings, showcasing the city’s highlights and hidden gems would create lasting memories and enriching experiences for my visiting friend.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Absolutely, there are several individuals and influences that have played pivotal roles in shaping my journey and success. I’d like to dedicate this shoutout to them:

Firstly, I owe a tremendous debt of gratitude to my parents, who dedicated their careers to serving the community. My father’s tenure at the Atlanta Housing Authority and my mother’s at Grady Hospital instilled in me a deep sense of compassion and commitment to making a positive impact on the lives of others.

Next, I want to recognize Mr. Teddy Astin, my mentor in the music industry. His guidance and wisdom have been instrumental in navigating the complexities of this field and shaping my professional path.

Last but certainly not least, I want to acknowledge my wife, Dawn Ross, who has been by my side for 35 years. She is not only my life partner but also my invaluable business partner, sharing in the highs and lows of entrepreneurship with unwavering support and dedication.

Together, these individuals have provided unwavering support, mentorship, and love, contributing significantly to my achievements and shaping my perspective on success and community engagement. Their influence continues to inspire and drive me forward in my endeavors.

Website: https://www.themeg.life

Instagram: musicedgroup / Ric Da Runner

Facebook: Musicedgroup / Ric Ross

Image Credits
Ric Ross