Stormzy and Craig David are among the artists paying tribute to Talay Riley, the British singer and songwriter who wrote hits for Usher, Dua Lipa and Khalid, after he was stabbed to death in an east London garden on Friday morning.
Riley, whose real name was Mark Orabiyi, was discovered with multiple stab wounds at a property on Rayleigh Road in Silvertown at around 9am. Despite the efforts of paramedics — including a trauma team dispatched by London’s Air Ambulance — he was pronounced dead on arrival at a major trauma centre. He was 35 years old. A second man in his 20s, also found with stab wounds at the scene, remains in hospital in a condition not believed to be life-threatening.
The Metropolitan Police have launched a murder investigation. Three people were arrested on suspicion of murder, though a 24-year-old man and a 25-year-old woman were subsequently released with no further action. A 27-year-old man has been released on bail pending further inquiries.
The loss has sent shockwaves through the music industry. Riley had written some of the most recognisable songs of the past decade — among them Khalid’s global hit Young Dumb and Broke, Who Do You Love by The Chainsmokers, and songs for Usher, Chris Brown, Nick Jonas and Dua Lipa. His reach as a writer extended far beyond his own recording career, leaving fingerprints on the work of some of the world’s biggest artists.
Stormzy wrote simply: “I’m sorry bro.” Craig David paid tribute saying: “Sending so much love to you and the family. His beautiful energy will continue to be felt and shown from the other side.” California-based record label Position Music, which worked with Riley, said: “We remember Talay Riley, an extraordinary songwriter, artist, and creative whose impact on music will be felt for generations. He will be remembered for his creativity, passion, and the lasting impact he had on everyone fortunate enough to work with him.”
His brother, singer Scribz Riley — real name Michael Orabiyi Riley — posted an emotional tribute on social media. “I never thought the day would come where I’d be writing this,” he wrote. “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. 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. Even with everything you accomplished, this was far too soon.”
The family released a joint statement describing Riley as “a beloved son, brother, uncle and friend” who “brought love, light and joy” to all who knew him. “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. May his soul rest in perfect peace.”
Detective Chief Inspector Joanna Yorke, leading the investigation, appealed for witnesses. “This is a tragic incident and my thoughts remain with Mark’s family and loved ones. 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.” Anyone with information is asked to contact police on 101, quoting CAD 1868/5JUN, or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
