Award-Winning Songwriter to Perform Acoustic Showcase in Poway

It’s difficult not to drop names when it comes to describing Harold Payne’s work as a multi-platinum, award-winning songwriter, as well as a performing artist.

The musician will perform at the at 2 p.m. on Saturday, April 14. His performance is part of an Acoustic Showcase, which is a series of free concerts organized by the San Diego County Library.

The event features Payne performing a variety of acoustic, soul and folk songs. He will play original songs, improvisational songs and cover songs.

“I usually include improvisation—that’s part of the specialty that I do,” Payne said. “I do at least one improv song, like pick a title from the audience, so it gives them a chance to inspire songs,” Payne said.

Payne has more than 100 songwriting credits for well-known artists, such as Pattie LaBelle, Rod Stewart, Snoop Dogg, Kenny Loggins, Collin Raye, Pam Tillis and Israel “Iz” Kamakawiwo'ole.

Most recently, he co-wrote a song for Kelly Rowland of Destiny’s Child called “Daylight,” which ranked on the UK/BBC singles chart and the Billboard Dance charts.

Payne said he varies the types of songs he’ll perform, depending on the venue.

“I usually have a cassette in mind but when I get there and see who’s there and pick up on the feeling of the audience, I change,” Payne said.

Some of the songs he may play might include “Don’t Worry About Me,” as well as R&B songs co-written with long-time collaborator Bobby Womack.

In addition to writing songs for artists, Payne creates custom songs for special occasions. For example, he wrote a song for Regis Philbin’s birthday several months ago.

“It was an extraordinary experience,” Payne said. “You can imagine who was there. Jimmy Kimmel was right in front of me.”

Payne also wrote a song for Bob Cavallo, the chairman of the Disney Music Group, about three weeks ago.

The artist anticipates playing at Poway.

“I’m especially looking forward to being able to play in a place where I’ve never really played,” Payne said. “I’ve never played in Poway before and I love how people come to hear the music in an intimate environment. That’s really special.”

• On the same day, there will be an at 9 a.m. on Saturday, April 14 at .

The free event includes local artists showcasing their work at the Poway Valley Garden Club’s Standard Flower Show. Arts and crafts items include pottery, painted silk scarves, wooden cutting boards, handmade soaps, mosaic frames and garden art, jewelry, as well as clothing. For more information call the Poway Arts & Crafts Guild at (858) 486-3497. 

• Folding Mr. Lincoln, a local band that plays Americana, acoustic and folk music, will perform for a Poway Folk Circle event at 6:30 p.m. on Tuesday, April 17 at .