Raised in California, Riley began studying composition and performing solo piano in the 1950s. He befriended and collaborated with composer La Monte Young, and later became involved with the San Francisco Tape Music Center. In the 1960s, he produced his best known works: the 1964 composition "In C" and the 1969 LP "A Rainbow in Curved Air", both considered landmarks of minimalism and important influences on experimental, rock, and electronic music. In the 1970s, he began intensive studies with Hindustani singer Pandit Pran Nath. He has collaborated frequently throughout his career, most extensively with chamber ensemble the Kronos Quartet.