British singer-songwriter Talay Riley, who wrote songs for artists including Dua Lipa, Britney Spears and Zendaya, was stabbed to death in London on Friday, June 5, the Metropolitan Police said. He was 35.
Police were called early Friday to an address in Silvertown, east London, to attend to a suspected stabbing.
Riley, whose real name was Mark Orabiyi, was pronounced dead at the scene.
A second man was taken to the hospital with multiple stab wounds, the Met Police said.
Three suspects — two men aged 27 and 24 and a 25-year-old woman — were arrested on suspicion of murder, the department said. The 27-year-old man was released on bail pending further investigation. The other two people detained were released with no further action.
“Mark was a beloved son, brother, uncle and friend. He brought love, light and joy to our family and to all who knew him,” Riley’s family said in a statement.
“We will always cherish his kindness, beautiful spirit and remarkable talent. His presence touched many lives, and his memory will remain in our hearts forever,” the family added. “May his soul rest in perfect peace.”
Riley’s songwriting credits include Zendaya’s “Close Up,” Dua Lipa’s “Last Dance” and Spears’ “Clumsy.” He has also written for the likes of U.K. rapper Stormzy, Craig David, Chris Brown, Khalid and more.
Riley’s brother, music producer Scribz Riley (real name Michael Orabiyi), paid tribute to the singer-songwriter in a Saturday, June 6, Instagram post.
“My heart is shattered! This doesn’t feel real. It feels like a bad dream. Just before he went to sleep we spoke about the future, staying positive and about everything we still had left to do,” he wrote. “I never imagined that would be our last conversation. Yinka wasn’t 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.”
Scribz added, “The outpouring of love already shows how many lives he impacted. 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.”
Stormzy and Khalid were among the people to comment on Scribz’s post.
“I’m sorry bro ❤️❤️❤️,” wrote Stormzy. Khalid added, “Im so sorrry bro… im sending you so much love 🕊️.”
Singer Kehlani wrote, “Big hugs scribz i’m so sorry.”
