Writers' group to
honor Melissa Etheridge

Melissa Etheridge will be honored at next month's 24th annual ASCAP Pop Music Awards, according to a report.

Marc Shaiman will also be celebrated during the week of events--including the "I Create Music" expo hosted by the American Society of Composers Authors and Publishers at the Hollywood Renaissance Hotel, Daily Variety reported.

Etheridge will be honored at the April 18 awards show, and Shaiman will be honored April 17 at the 22nd annual ASCAP Film and Television Music Awards.

The organization's second annual "I Create Music" expo, a three-day event dedicated to songwriting and composing, will be held April 19-21 at the hotel.

There will be an interview with Randy Newman and panels featuring Glen Ballard, Alan and Marilyn Bergman, Regina Carter, Desmond Child, John Corigliano, Hal David, Jermaine Dupri, Jimmy Jam & Terry Lewis, Johnny Mandel, Stephen Schwartz, Bill Withers, and Dan Zanes.

"Everywhere we go there is music," ASCAP president and chair Marilyn Bergman said in a statement. "It is one of the most pervasive and beloved aspects of our culture. And yet most music creators work behind the scenes. By presenting this important and unique slate of activities, ASCAP hopes to educate, showcase, connect, and ultimately celebrate the people who create the music that enriches our lives." (AP)