David Solomon: From Boardroom to DJ Booth and Back Again

David Solomon, CEO of Goldman Sachs, one of the world’s most prominent investment banks, has recently made a surprising announcement: he will no longer spin in public. Spinning in public you might ask? The fact is, beyond the boardroom and his banking endeavors, Solomon has a deep passion for music, and has occasionally performed as a DJ. He’s even showcased his DJing skills at some of the largest music festivals in the U.S., with his performance at Lollapalooza in Chicago last year being particularly memorable. It’s a side of him not everyone is familiar with.

Goldman Sachs is a name that brings one's thoughts to formality, prestige, and the rigor of Wall Street. So when David Solomon took the helm as its CEO in 2018, it was somewhat astonishing for many to discover that, outside the intense world of finance, Solomon moonlighted as a DJ under the moniker “DJ D-Sol.”

Solomon’s inroad into electronic dance music wasn’t just a stunt. He regularly played sets at high-profile venues in Miami and New York, and even released tracks on Spotify. In fact, one of his most popular tracks, “Rescue Me,” has over 12 million streams.

Solomon’s DJing endeavors served as a refreshing contrast to his daytime role. It emphasized the idea that corporate leaders could, and perhaps should, have multifaceted lives outside their C-suite responsibilities.

David’s passion for music provided an outlet from the high-pressure environment of his banking job. It was an embodiment of work-life balance, signaling to other professionals that it’s okay, and even beneficial, to pursue personal passions outside of work.

Moreover, his DJing stints humanized the role of Top CEOs. For many Goldman Sachs employees and stakeholders, it presented Solomon as approachable and relatable, breaking the traditional mold of a Wall Street executive.

The big question then is: why did David Solomon decide to step back from performing as a DJ in public?

According to the Times and Bloomberg, Solomon’s step down is due to unwanted media attention. While the exact reasons remain known primarily to Solomon, one can speculate. Balancing the role of being the CEO of a major financial institution and a public-facing hobby can be demanding. Moreover, in the corporate world, perception from the public matters. It's possible that concerns over the image it projects—the head of a leading bank moonlighting as a DJ—may have influenced the decision.

It's also worth noting that the past couple of years have been especially challenging for the world of finance, with the global pandemic, evolving market dynamics, as well as economic and geopolitical uncertainties. The demands on Solomon’s time and attention, given the evolving financial landscape, are immense.

Solomon’s decision to retreat from public DJing events hints at a broader discussion about the roles and expectations placed upon corporate leaders.

In today’s digital age, personal lives are more public than ever before, thanks to the rise of social media and the 24/7 news cycle. This increased visibility can blur the boundaries between a CEO’s professional responsibilities and personal hobbies. While the new generation appreciates authenticity and multi-dimensionality in leadership, there remains a traditional school of thought that prefers clear demarcation between personal passions and professional duties.

Solomon’s DJing journey and his recent decision open a dialogue on the evolving nature of leadership. How much of a CEO’s personal life should intersect with their corporate persona? Is it beneficial for organizations to showcase their leaders’ human side, or does it risk diluting the brand’s seriousness and professionalism?

David Solomon’s decision to step back from DJing at public events marks the end of an era where––in a weird way––Wall Street and EDM intersected. His public spinning has provided an example of a modern, multifaceted CEO who isn’t confined to the boardroom but thrives in the vibrant world of music.

As the lines between personal passions and professional responsibilities continue to blur in the age of social media, corporate leaders will grapple with balancing authenticity with professionalism. David Solomon’s DJ:ing chapter offers a fascinating case study in this ongoing narrative, reminding us that even in the corridors of power, there beats a heart with diverse passions.