ASCAP, the American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers, the organization protecting performing rights and advocacy for music creators, has announced the initial lineup for the 2015 ASCAP “I Create Music” EXPO, to be held April 30 through May 2 at the Loews Hollywood Hotel in Los Angeles, CA. Now in its 10th year, the ASCAP EXPO gives new music creators access to a world-class gathering of music talent for three days of panels and discussions dedicated to the craft and business of songwriting, composing and producing.
This year’s lineup includes current hit-makers such as Savan Kotecha (Ariana Grande, Jessie J, One Direction, Maroon 5), Greg Kurstin (Kelly Clarkson, Ellie Goulding), Jesse Shatkin (Sia, Pink), Darrell Brown (LeAnn Rimes, Keith Urban), Da Internz (Nicki Minaj, John Legend, Rihanna), Ashley Gorley (Carrie Underwood, Brad Paisley), Sevyn Streeter (Alicia Keys, Ariana Grande, Chris Brown) and Kirby Lauryen (Rihanna, Kanye West, Paul McCartney); indie favorites Andrew Bird, Ingrid Michaelson and Nick Thorburn (Islands, Serial); and iconic artist/songwriters Bill Withers, Kevin Cronin (REO Speedwagon) and Lou Gramm (Foreigner).
“The ASCAP ‘I Create Music’ EXPO has become one of our signature events and for good reason,” said ASCAP President Paul Williams. “The chance to meet and learn from others who share the enthusiasm for our craft is immensely valuable, especially when you’re in the early stages of your career. This is something ASCAP excels at, and with EXPO we’re gratified that we can provide the opportunity for music creators of all levels and genres to come together for this incredibly rewarding experience.”
Williams will address the conference during ASCAP’s General Annual Membership Meeting on opening day and will participate in a Saturday panel on current legislative issues for songwriters with songwriter/artist Aloe Blacc, ASCAP CEO Beth Matthews, and co-sponsors of the Songwriter Equity Act, Congressmen Doug Collins (R-GA) and Hakeem Jeffries (D-NY). Other significant speakers and keynotes will be announced in the coming weeks.
In addition to keynote interviews, master classes and top-notch performances, the ASCAP EXPO provides panels designed to educate and support music creators at every stage of their career. There are also several opportunities for attendees to get their music heard--and receive honest feedback and advice. For more information, including Expo Programming, visit ascap.com/expo.
