The 11th Annual ASCAP “I Create Music” EXPO kicked off last weekend at the Loews Hollywood Hotel in Los Angeles. The event opened with ASCAP’s Annual Membership Meeting featuring an introductory performance by OMI, singing his worldwide chart-topping hit, “Cheerleader.”
President and award-winning songwriter Paul Williams also spoke about being a songwriter, and ASCAP’s role in improving songwriters’ livelihoods through Capitol Hill advocacy, while ASCAP CEO Elizabeth Matthews shared the news of ASCAP’s crazy $1 billion plus revenue.
EVP Membership John Titta hosted two stellar performances and short discussions—first with the songwriting power trio of Chris DeStefano, Brett James, and Priscilla Renea performing their hit “Somethin’ Bad” (Miranda Lambert and Carrie Underwood), written at an ASCAP SongCamp.
Next, Melissa Etheridge shared personal advice and a heartfelt acoustic version of “Come to My Window.”
Following the live performances was a lively panel featuring Charles Kelley of Lady Antebellum, OMI, multi-platinum songwriter and Matchbox Twenty frontman Rob Thomas, “King of Reality TV” composer, David Vanacore, and Grammy-winning singer, songwriter, musician, producer, and visual artist Dan Wilson (Chris Stapleton, Adele).
Billboard moderator Shirley Halperin led a spirited discussion on their craft, filled with personal anecdotes and diverse takes on the songwriting process.
The other panel we checked out was indie-rock turned pop producer Ariel Rechtshaid, whose diverse credits range from Blood Orange to Adele. He spoke about the intense pressure of creating hits for the likes of Usher—who apparently began their session by repeatedly asking Rechtshaid, “Why are you here?!”
ASCAP “I Create Music” EXPO Day One wrapped up Thursday night with “I Create Music” Center Stage at nearby Ohm Nightclub. Hosted by superstar songwriter/producer (and ASCAP Board member) Desmond Child, the audience was treated to in-the-round performances by top songwriters who told the stories behind some of their biggest hits.
Performances included Brett James (“Out Last Night” with Kenny Chesney), Kevin Kadish (“All About that Bass” with Meghan Trainor), multi-platinum R&B/soul songwriter and artist Brian McKnight (“Back at One”), Rob Thomas (“3 A.M”), and groundbreaking folk singer-songwriter Suzanne Vega (“Tom’s Diner”).
Overall, there was a lot of inspiration to be had at the EXPO—reinforcing the power of good songwriting. Looking forward to what the EXPO has in store for next year.
