British-Nigerian singer and songwriter Talay Riley has died after being stabbed in East London, sparking a murder investigation by police. According to Punch, the 35-year-old musician, whose real name was Mark Yinka Orabiyi, was attacked on Friday morning in Silvertown and later died despite efforts by emergency responders.
Homicide detectives have launched an investigation into the killing. In a statement, Talay’s family described his death as an “overwhelming sadness,” remembering him as a Grammy Award-winning and multi-platinum-selling songwriter whose talent, humour and generosity touched many lives.
His brother, music producer Scribz Riley, paid an emotional tribute, calling him a mentor, inspiration and a light to many. Tributes have also poured in from across the music industry, including rapper Stormzy and singer Craig David, who collaborated with Talay on his 2018 album The Time Is Now.
