Pictured (l-r) are ASCAP's Shawn LeMone, ASCAP President and Chairman Paul Williams and CCC President Jon Rosner
Moderator Randy Grimmett (left) and Paul Williams
Paul Williams and keyboardist Chris "Kazz" Caswell perform one of Williams' evergreen originals
If you've ever had the pleasure of hearing ASCAP President and Chairman Paul Williams speak, you know that he's that rare leader who can turn any occasion into an opportunity for inspiration, education and laughter. That was certainly the case on May 5th, 2010, when the California Copyright Conference (CCC) invited Williams to speak at their monthly meeting. The occasion was a special event titled "An Evening with Paul Williams," an entertaining departure from the CCC's normal series of in-depth panel discussions.
Spurred on by questions from moderator Randy Grimmett, ASCAP's SVP of Domestic Membership, Williams offered memories from his storied past as a singer, songwriter and actor, made self-deprecating jokes and spoke lucidly of his personal convictions about creators' rights. Throughout the engaging talk, Williams sang excerpts from several of his biggest hits, accompanied by pianist Chris "Kazz" Caswell. The crowd was treated to an intimate version of "Rainy Days and Mondays" and a hilarious rendition of "The Rainbow Connection," sung in Williams' best Willie Nelson impression.
One major theme that emerged from the discussion was the importance of bridging the gap between musical generations. Williams cited his recent work with Scissor Sisters and Daft Punk as examples of creators from two very different worlds working together. As if to illustrate his point that the old guard still has some spring in its step, Williams pulled out all the stops at this CCC meeting. His delightfully rambunctious demeanor was proof enough that youthfulness is a state of mind.
