Tributes have poured in from music industry stars following the fatal stabbing of singer-songwriter Talay Riley in east London. The 35-year-old, whose real name is Mark Orabiyi, was discovered with stab wounds at an address in Silvertown around 9 a.m. on Friday and was pronounced dead at the scene.
A man in his 20s was also taken to hospital with multiple stab wounds and remains in a stable condition, with injuries not believed to be life-threatening. Three individuals were arrested on suspicion of murder on Friday. A 27-year-old man has been released on bail pending further inquiries, while a 24-year-old man and a 25-year-old woman have been released with no further action.
Family and Industry Tributes
Riley's family released a statement on Sunday, describing him as a "beloved son, brother, uncle, and friend." They said: "He brought love, light, and joy to our family and 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."
Rapper Chip, who co-wrote the number-one single Oopsy Daisy with Riley, paid tribute on Instagram: "You ain’t deserve to go out like that fam. Fly high bro. Your pen will live forever. What a day man. What a life… RIP Talay Riley. I’ll cherish the memories forever. Prayers and thoughts go out to your family."
Stormzy commented on a post from Riley's brother, writing: "I’m sorry bro." Wretch 32 added: "Sending love to you & your family bro. Your brother was a gem & will be missed & never forgotten, Never! RIP." Craig David said: "Sending so much love to you & the family. His beautiful energy will continue to be felt & shown from the other side."
Musical Legacy
Riley signed his first major publishing deal with Global Publishing at age 18. He had 76,000 monthly listeners on Spotify and toured with artists such as Skepta, Usher, and Trey Songz. His songwriting credits include tracks for Tinie Tempah, Jessie J, Ellie Goulding, Britney Spears, and Craig David. He also contributed to hits like Khalid’s Young Dumb & Broke, The Chainsmokers’ Who Do You Love, HER’s Lights On, Flo’s Walk Like This, and Kehlani’s Out The Window.
His brother, songwriter Scribz Riley, wrote an emotional tribute: "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."
Police Investigation
Detective Chief Inspector Joanna Yorke, leading the Met’s investigation, said: "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."
Anyone with information is asked to call police on 101 quoting CAD 1868/5JUN, or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
In a separate incident on Saturday night, two men were arrested on suspicion of attempted murder following a large fight in Barking on River Road around 11:20 p.m. Three men aged 28, 23, and 22 were found with stab wounds. The 22-year-old remains in critical condition, while the other two were discharged and taken into custody.
