Jones, Mayer to headline LA music expo

Quincy Jones and John Mayer will headline ASCAP`s annual songwriters convention in Hollywood.

Los Angeles: Producer Quincy Jones, pop guitarist John Mayer and retired soul singer Bill Withers will headline performing rights group ASCAP`s annual songwriters convention in Hollywood on April 22-24, organizers said.The trio will share the secrets of their success and craft during Q&A sessions at the fifth annual "I Create Music" Expo, once again taking place at the Renaissance Hollywood Hotel.

Last year`s event, boasting headliners Jeff Lynne, Ann and Nancy Wilson of Heart and Chaka Khan, drew more than 2,400 attendees. About half came from out of state and overseas, a spokeswoman said. A preliminary lineup of panelists this year includes jazz guitarist Kenny Burrell, Aerosmith and Bon Jovi songwriter Desmond Child, Prince protegees Wendy & Lisa, country star Phil Vassar, and ASCAP`s Oscar-winning president Paul Williams. Jones, 76, the most-honored living Grammy winner with 27 statuettes, is shepherding an all-star remake of "We are the World" to raise funds for Haiti earthquake victims. Mayer, 32, currently the subject of a Rolling Stone cover story detailing his physical and material self-gratification, topped the U.S. pop chart last November with his fourth album "Battle Studies." Withers, 71, best known for such soul classics as "Lean on Me" and "Ain`t No Sunshine," has largely withdrawn from active participation in the music industry. Bureau Report