‘Skip’ Scarborough, 58; Songwriter, Producer, Arranger, Keyboardist

Clarence Alexander “Skip” Scarborough, 58, who shared a Grammy in songwriting for “Giving You the Best That I Got,” died of cancer July 3 in Los Angeles.

Scarborough lived in Owings Mills, Md., but was in the Southland to visit family and work on a songwriting project.

He earned his Grammy, with co-writer Randy Holland, in 1988 for best R&B; song. The single of “Giving You the Best” was recorded by Anita Baker. Scarborough worked as songwriter, producer, arranger and keyboardist, creating hits in rock, funk and gospel music, as well as R&B.;

Born in Baton Rouge, La., and brought up in Los Angeles, he studied at Los Angeles City College, CalArts and UCLA before he decided on a career in music. In Maryland, the devoted Baptist served on the board of the Place of Grace and worked in its music ministry.

Among Scarborough’s top hit songs were “Love Ballad,” recorded by LTD; “Don’t Ask My Neighbor,” by the Emotions; “Lovely Day,” by Bill Withers; “Can’t Hide Love” and “Love’s Holiday,” by Earth, Wind & Fire; “Love Changes,” by Mother’s Finest; “Living Inside Your Love,” by Phyllis Hyman; and “It’s Alright With Me,” by Patti Labelle.