Talay Riley, a songwriter who created hits for artists including Britney Spears and Craig David, has been stabbed to death aged 35.
The musician, whose real name was Mark Orabiyi, died on June 5th in Silvertown, East London, after he was found by paramedics in the garden of a property in the area with multiple stab wounds and pronounced dead at the scene.
According to The Guardian, three people were arrested on the same day on suspicion of murder, with a 27-year-old man having been released on bail pending further enquiries. The two others, a 24-year-old man and 25-year-old woman, were released with no further action.
Officially announcing the news, Riley’s brother Michael Orabiyi, who works as a producer under the name Scribz Riley, posted to Instagram: “My heart is shattered! This doesn’t feel real. It feels like a bad dream.”
As part of an extensive tribute, Riley was described as not “just my brother. He was my mother’s son, a friend to many, a mentor, an inspiration, and a light in so many people’s lives. He had one of the purest hearts I’ve ever known. He loved deeply, gave freely, and touched countless people through his talent, kindness, and spirit.”
He added: “You inspired so many people and your legacy will continue to live on through your music, your family, your friends, and everyone blessed enough to have known you. Thank you to everyone who has reached out to me and my family, we appreciate you all.”
Orabiyi signed off the tribute by saying: “Even with everything you accomplished this was far too soon. I love you brother. Thank you for everything. Rest in paradise Yinka. Until we meet again.”
The comments of the posts were flooded with tributes to the singer-songwriter from other artists, including Stormzy, who wrote: “I’m sorry bro”.
Riley signed his first publishing deal at the age of 18 and had his first major breakout by writing the number one hit ‘Oopsy Daisy’ by rapper Chip in 2012.
He went on to write songs and work with a range of massive artists over the years, including Britney Spears, Craig David, Khalid, H.E.R, and Kehlani.
The Metropolitan Police are still carrying out investigations into Riley’s death.
DCI Joanna Yorke, who is leading the case, saying: “This is a tragic incident and my thoughts remain with Mark’s family and loved ones. Our investigation continues at pace. I would like to appeal for anyone who was in the area at the time of this incident to speak to police.”
She added: “We are particularly interested in hearing from anyone who might have CCTV or other footage from the morning of the incident that could assist our investigation.”
