Quincy Jones, John Mayer to headline LA music expo

LOS ANGELES (Reuters) - 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Withers, 71, best known for such soul classics as "Lean on Me" and "Ain't No Sunshine," has largely withdrawn from active participation in the music industry.

(Reporting by Dean Goodman)