The family of Matthew Jay have confirmed the Parlophone signed singer-songwriter has died after falling from a seventh-floor window.
In a statement the singer's parents told reporters yesterday: "Matthew Jay died late evening on Wednesday, 24th September 2003, killed in a fall from a seventh-storey window. It is understood that there was nobody with him in the room at the time and no note was left. His family loved him dearly, admired him greatly and wish Matthew and all who loved him peace and tranquillity. Matthew lived and died for his music. We hope that his music will live on and help fill the terrible void left in all those who loved him."
A spokesman for EMI label Parlophone told reporters: "Everyone here who knew Matthew will remember him as such a lovely guy, and a very talented artist. We are deeply shocked and send our sympathy to his family and friends."
Jay's manager Martyn Watson added: "Matthew's genius was an inspiration. He brought light to all our lives and his songs will live on forever. All his friends will miss him so much."
Although in the early stages of his career, Jay enjoyed much critical acclaim for debut album 'Draw' - being compared to other singer/songwriters like Badly Drawn Boy and Nick Drake. He toured extensively supporting, among others, Stereophonics, Dido, Doves and Starsailor.